In Kyiv, fleeting moments of celebration stolen from the war: 'Never in my life have I seen so many beautiful people in one place'

Posted on August 21, 2026
By Le Monde
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1 min read

In brief

The Vyriy festival returned to Kyiv for its second consecutive year, providing a remarkable sanctuary amid ongoing conflict. Thousands gathered on August 8-9 to celebrate Ukrainian culture through music and visual arts, creating an unexpected oasis of joy. Military personnel on temporary leave mingled with civilians and festival-goers, united in their appreciation for traditional folklore and contemporary artistic expression. This cultural gathering demonstrates the resilience of Ukrainian society, showcasing how communities maintain their identity and spirit despite relentless Russian aerial bombardment.

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In Kyiv, fleeting moments of celebration stolen from the war: 'Never in my life have I seen so many beautiful people in one place'

For the second year in a row, the Vyriy music and visual arts festival brought together several thousand people in Kyiv on August 8 and 9, despite relentless Russian drone attacks. Soldiers on leave and families joined partygoers to dance and celebrate Ukrainian folklore inside this rare bubble of peace.