臺北市新住民專區網站英文版

    July 6^th is Ivan Kupala, a festival celebrated in Ukraine where people gather to commemorate the summer solstice by jumping over fires and bathing in celebration. 

    Ivan Kupala has its origins in Slavic polytheistic beliefs and is celebrated with grandeur not only in Ukraine but also in Belarus, Russia and Poland. On this day, people dress in traditional attire and adorn their heads with beautiful flower wreaths. They gather around bonfires, singing and dancing. Additionally, participants leap over bonfires and bathe in lakes, believing that it purifies them of sins and brings them good health. Unmarried girls pick plants and flowers, weaving them into wreaths to protect themselves from evil spirits. These wreaths consist of twelve different types of plants, including daisies, wormwood, and chamomile. After weaving the wreaths, the unmarried girls place candles on them and release them to float down the river. The longer the wreath stays afloat, the happier the girl’s future is believed to be. Similarly, the longer the candle burns, the longer the girl’s life will be. Boys position themselves downstream, hoping to catch the wreath of the girl they love. According to legend, ferns only bloom on the night of Ivan Kupala, and finding one brings good luck. Therefore, venturing into the dark forest to search for fern flowers is also an essential activity during this festival.