You will be forgiven if all your knowledge of Slavic culture comes from Ukraine and Poland’s Eurovision entries (if you know, you know).
You will also be forgiven for not knowing what Dożynki is or that this Adelaide Spring Harvest Festival has been a part of the Slavic-Australian community for more than 40 years. Adelaide’s western suburbs have been home to this festival but for the first time ever, it’s making moves in the centre of the city.
But to the average Adelaidean, one who is not a part of this community, what are we celebrating? You may be thinking, what does Dożynki mean?
To ‘cut down’ or ‘reap’, Slavic people celebrate Dożynki at the end of the harvest season, which can differ greatly depending on the Autumn equinox and the country climate. Ideally, this would be on the final days of Spring, as Autumn rolls around, but in the Southern Hemisphere, this differs.
Traditionally, Dożynki is symbolised by leaving the healthiest sheaf of grain uncut, decorate it with filigree and two boys drag a young girl around the sheaf to increase soil fertility for the next harvest.
Now, more power to the festival if this ritual is present at Victoria Square, but if it is not there are other forms of entertainment to grab your attention, like the Tatry Polish folklore ensemble and the Volya Ukrainian dancers.
Every year since 1979, the Tatry ensemble began the festival with traditional songs and dances in traditional costume. Being one of the oldest ensembles in all of Australia, this is a real treat to bring to the Adelaide CBD.
Accompanying them will be Volya Ukrainian dance ensemble, showcasing Ukrainian pride with various traditional routines. The countries being historical allies, there is no better time than now to show respect and camaraderie to Ukraine, in this political climate.
A main stage was always used for the display of the dancers and the dance showcases will most likely take place in the centre, sunk-in area of Victoria Square. Having the dancers on full display, you will be able to peruse the various market and food stalls.
The Dożynki committee says this event layout will allow festival-goers to fully immerse themselves in the beautiful cultures of the wider communities on display. Alongside the various food stalls selling traditional pierogi (potato dumplings) and paczki (jam-filled donuts) will be arts and crafts stalls selling traditional nesting dolls, clothing, souvenirs and various home goods.
There will also be a kids zone to encompass all those Polish and Ukrainian goods, from the dancing and the costumes to the food and the crafts. There will be various stalls showcasing the history of Dożynki and other traditions surrounding the event.
When: Sunday 23 October, 11:30 am
Where: Grote St, Adelaide SA 5000
You can purchase tickets for $15 here.
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