Ukrainian refugees present traditional dishes and souvenirs at a Christmas market in Sofia

Refugees from Ukraine participate in a Christmas market in Sofia with the support of UNICEF to present their dishes, crafts and traditions during the holidays. Over 20 small Ukrainian companies and entrepreneurs, as well as Ukrainian chefs, bakers and artisans, will present their products from December 19 for two weeks in the capital. Traditional dishes and handmade souvenirs are sold in two Christmas houses of the Ukrainian refugee community in Christmas Park on Slaveykov Square.

UNICEF supports their participation in the bazaar as part of the “Christmas is possible for every child” campaign.

The campaign aims to give a voice to Ukrainian families who have found refuge in Bulgaria and to promote their integration and solidarity in Bulgarian society. From December 19 until the end of the month, visitors to the bazaar can try various Ukrainian delicacies such as varenyki with different fillings, syrniki (pancakes with cream), borsch with pampushki (garlic cakes), Carpathian tea and Lviv cheesecake. Guests will also be offered traditional Christmas sweets that Ukrainian mothers and grandmothers prepare during the holidays for their children and grandchildren.

Visitors will also be able to buy jewelry and toys handmade by Ukrainian refugee women, as well as bags with traditional ornaments, candles, decoration, home accessories and more. Ukrainian stalls will also attract people looking for special decorations for their Christmas trees and gifts, such as beaded jewelry made by 11-year-old Kateryna from the Donetsk region.

In addition to shopping, bazaar visitors will also be able to make a donation to charities supporting Ukrainian refugee children in Bulgaria, who have made toys to decorate two Christmas trees at the bazaar. Ukrainian children will also participate in the Christmas celebrations, who will sing traditional Ukrainian and Bulgarian songs.