Vechornytsi BXL
Ukrainian Cultural Space ASBL
Belgium
It's a monthly participatory cultural gathering that helps Ukrainians preserve their cultural identity during the ongoing war while creating a space for intercultural dialogue. Through shared practices such as cooking traditional food with participants, learning dances, and creative workshops, participants from many nationalities connect and build a supportive community. Over the past three years, more than 30 events have brought together an average of 50 participants from35+ nationalities. The project strengthens democratic values, cultural resilience, and grassroots engagement.
Vechornytsi BXL is a community-based cultural initiative in Brussels inspired by traditional Ukrainian “vechornytsi” – gatherings where people meet to cook, sing, learn crafts, and share stories. Since 2022, the project has organised more than 30 events bringing together Ukrainians and participants from different nationalities.
The initiative supports Ukrainians living through the consequences of war by preserving cultural identity and creating a safe space for cultural expression. At the same time, it invites international participants to discover Ukrainian culture through shared experiences.
The event consists of 3 parts: a master class (cooking, dancing or applied art) that involves all participants, 2) quiz, 3)concerts, talks with writers and journalists, and intercultural collaborations (for example, Estonian, Italian, and Spanish communities).
The philosophy of the project is inspired by borscht: just as different vegetables create one dish, people from different cultures can build a shared community based on democratic values.