Roma Culture Festival in Odesa: a day of unity through music, dance, and tradition

Strong musical performances and incendiary dances became a real highlight of the Roma culture festival.

Young Roma women proudly present a traditional sweet table at the Roma culture festival.

The culmination of the festival was a round dance to live music in the heart of the Odessa City Garden.

Young people from the Roma community hold master classes for children, passing on creativity and traditions.

The festive atmosphere, colorful costumes, and live music have become a symbol of Roma pride.

Festival guests could taste traditional dishes: from cabbage rolls to festive desserts.

On May 24, 2025, the heart of Odesa — the Rotunda of the City Garden — hosted a vibrant and heartfelt Roma Culture Festival, held as part of the city’s Multicultural Weeks. This event became a true celebration of unity, inspiration, and intercultural dialogue.

The festival brought together hundreds of attendees and participants: Roma community members, Odesa residents, tourists, children, artists, civil society representatives, and partner organizations. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, sincerity, pride in heritage, and a spirit of openness.

What the guests experienced:

🎤 Musical performances

The stage was opened by Volodymyr Karafetov, Honored Artist of Ukraine, whose powerful voice captivated the audience. His performance was followed by lively and colorful dances by the “Terne Roma” folk ensemble and the “Shukarni” show group, igniting cheers and smiles across the crowd.

🌟 Youth participation

A special point of pride was the involvement of talented young Roma from the organizations “Khamoro” and the Roma Rights Center, who inspired guests with their creativity and initiative.

Among them were Angelina Hyderym and Tymur Prodan, youth representatives of the Roma Rights Center — true role models of a new, creative, and socially engaged Roma generation.

🍲 Culinary zone

One of the event’s highlights was the display of national Roma dishes — traditional cabbage rolls, homemade pastries, fruit skewers, unique desserts, and an intricately designed cake featuring ethnic symbols. Each dish told a story of culture, family, and tradition.

🎨 Workshops and interactive zones

Children and adults alike participated in craft workshops, traditional dance lessons, and art stations with Roma-inspired designs. These activities fostered an open space for learning, dialogue, and cultural exchange.

🎯 Festival goals

• Honoring the Roma community’s history and cultural heritage

• Strengthening trust and mutual respect between communities

• Promoting intercultural collaboration and understanding

• Empowering Roma youth to express themselves and showcase their potential

In conclusion

The Roma Culture Festival was not just a celebration — it was a living space for connection, learning, and inspiration. It showed how culture has the power to unite, break down barriers, and open hearts.

🙏 We sincerely thank all participants, partners, families, volunteers, and guests who helped make this day so joyful, meaningful, and memorable.

This festival marks only the beginning of a broader journey toward mutual respect, visibility, and collaboration.