Malanka

I don't normally post something cultural ;-) but when asked on facebook "What is Malanka?" I thought, knowing she reads my blog, I would post the response here.

Malanka is a Ukrainian folk holiday celebrated on January 13th, which is New Year's Eve in accordance with the Julian calendar. Malanka commemorates the feast day of St. Melania. On this night in Ukraine, carolers traditionally went from house to house playing pranks or acting out a small play (similar to "Vertep" -- see above), with a bachelor dressed in women's clothing leading the troop. Malanka caps off the festivities of the Christmas holidays, and is often the last opportunity for partying before the solemn period of Lent which precedes Easter.

Last night, the Camrose Veselka Ukrainian Dancers (which Natasha dances with) put on their annual Malanka celebration. It was held on January 17 this year but the actual day is January 13. Anyway our celebration includes dances from all the groups in the club, a wonderful and delicious Ukrainian feast, silent and live auction, and a family dance to close out the night.

This was Natasha's second Malanka and she danced wonderfully. Ashley is desperate to get up their with her sister and laughs ( and awwwws) will be had when she take the stage next year. We didn't make it home until about midnight because the girls danced the night away once the family dance began. I even got out there for the Cadillac ranch and the Macerena. It was a fun but tiring night.

Natasha is the first one to come out.