In 49 days, Ukrainian culture will be front and centre.
Taking centre stage and embracing all the beauty that comes with the Ukrainian culture. Canada's National Ukrainian Festival (CNUF) runs from August 1 to 3. Tickets are on sale now, and there are fewer than 20 upper camping spots available.
"I think we're sitting in a pretty good spot, just waiting for the weekend to happen," said Kayla Gillis. "We have a few more things to put in place. Entertainment is ready to go, and stay tuned for schedules."
Before that, festival organizers are giving you a chance to get a head start on the festivities. There will be a kick-off party in Dauphin on Saturday, beginning at 11:00 a.m. It'll be at Obsolete Brewing Company, and it'll be a day to remember.
"We're cooking you breakfast, lunch, and supper. We're going all day and night," offered Gillis. "We have Midlife Crisis joining us from Saskatoon. We have dancers starting at two and another session starting at six."
There will be a Toonie Raffle, a BBQ fundraiser with delicious Kuba burgers, merchandise, and even a bouncy castle. There is no admission.
"If there's anyone out there that would like to have a good meal, certainly come out and check it out," said Cory Lafontaine. "We will also have CNUF merchandise, so that's very exciting. It's a tiny sampling of what you're going to experience at the festival in August."
The 60th CNUF runs in August, and on Saturday, you can get a head start on the festivities.