Vyshyvanka Day celebrated in Fareham and Gosport towns

The towns marked Vyshyvanka Day with walks and a visit to the mayor.

Vyshyvanka Day, celebrated globally by Ukrainians on the third Thursday in May, honours the traditional embroidered shirt, a symbol of heritage and identity.

The event, hosted by Community First, took place on May 13 in Fareham and May 15 in Gosport.

Gosport mayor welcomes Ukrainian walkers in embroidered pride (Image: Community First) The shirts, often adorned with floral or geometric patterns, tell the story of the wearer's region and history.

Members of Community First's Ukrainian Hub were seen proudly walking through Fareham and Gosport in their embroidered shirts.

The Gosport walkers concluded their route with a welcome from the mayor, Councillor Kirsten Bradley.

The events provided an opportunity for Ukrainians in the area, many of whom have been displaced by the ongoing conflict, to celebrate their culture and share it with the wider community.

Community First brings families together to honour Vyshyvanka Day (Image: Community First) The Ukrainian Hub is a free service run by Community First, offering vital support to Ukrainians in the area.

The team assists people in settling into local life, whether it’s finding housing, getting NHS care, applying for benefits, or registering with schools.

Larysa Minihane, Ukrainian Hub coordinator, said: "It’s fantastic to be able to honour a Ukrainian tradition with so many families who have had to rebuild their lives here.

"It’s a day to celebrate unity, identity, and resilience – and it’s also about sharing joy.

"Seeing people in Fareham and Gosport smile, and ask about our Vyshyvankas was really touching.

"It shows that culture can bring people together, no matter where they’re from."

The Ukrainian Hub holds weekly drop-in sessions every Thursday from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at the Community First offices in Martin Snape House, Gosport.