Vintage Day at Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Emily Mailhot Reporter – Vegreville News Advertiser

On Sunday, June 24, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village looked back on the past with their annual Vintage Day show and shine, Friends Ukrainian Music Concert, a poker rally through the Historical Village, and more.

Guests enjoyed a walk through the various years and models of vintage cars that sprawled across the lawn at the village. They even had the opportunity to get up close to a NASCAR vehicle, courtesy of the Edmonton International Raceway, who also handed out free race tickets to guests at the village. Winners of the show were as follows: Best of Show: Daryl Lindberg – 1937 Hudson Terraplane Coupe

Kid’s Choice: Daryl Lindberg – 1937 Hudson Terraplane Coupe

Best Motorcycle: Dave Martin – 1948 Indian Chief

Best Tractor: Donald Tauber – 1954 Alice Chalmers Model CA

At the bandshell stage, master of ceremonies Steven Chwok introduced a variety of local Ukrainian artists, including Marango Pie, Milenia, the Polka Ramblers, and Euphoria – who will visit Ukraine later this year on a tour.

Through the morning, the Kalyna Voice Singing Contest, hosted along with the Kalyna Country Ecomuseum, declared its winner after showcasing a variety of local talents of all ages. Entertainment by Swing-Out Edmonton Dance Club, Before Arrival, JAIDS, and Cooper Studio’s performers singing vintage music, was available for guests throughout the afternoon.

In addition to horse-drawn wagon rides and morse telegraph in the Historical Village, a poker rally sent village guests racing through the village to collect the best 5-card poker hand.

Other activities included the exhibitor showcase, a 50/50 draw in support of the Friends of the Ukrainian Village Society, children’s activities, and courtyard musical entertainment.

Delicious Ukrainian food was available from vendors and the Summer Kitchen throughout the day.

Thousands of guests flooded the parking lot and village throughout the day and were directed by the 2 nd Kilkenny Scout Group. Other sponsors also contributed to helping the event.

Many guests reported that they visited for the car show or were visiting the Historical Village for the first time. A large number of guests said that they enjoyed the Vintage Day events because it made them happy to be reminded of things from the past that they remember. Whether it was the vintage race car, traditional Ukrainian music, or food just like Baba used to make, Vintage Day offered a flashback to the past to be remembered.