Babas & Borshch Ukrainian Festival gets Funding Boost

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Babas & Borshch Ukrainian Festival received a funding boost of $25,624 thanks to a successful grant application through the Community Initiatives Program (CIP) on January 10.

Hazel Anaka, Co-ordinator of the Babas & Borshch Ukrainian Festival, (left), accepted a cheque for $25,624 from Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk on Jan. 10. (Submitted Photo)

Festival Co-ordinator Hazel Anaka was pleased to receive the funding that will provide “seed money”for its 2020 festival. “Sponsorships grants such as the CIP allow us to maintain our free admission policy, and keep cost from becoming a barrier to attendance for anyone,” stated Anaka. The funds will also be used to offset other expenses like performance fees to dancers, musicians, presenters, rentals, printing, postage, decor, etc.

The 8th annual Babas & Borshch Festival will be held this year on August 22 and 23 in Lamont. While it’s a bit early to make any announcements, Anaka said they plan to implement some of the ideas they had in the works last year. “Fan favourites like Baba Magda, the Borshch Cook Off, Music Jam, Baba’s Bizaar, Lamont County Kid Zone and Zabava are all returning. As always, expect some learning, some surprises, some fun.”