“A story that continues. Independence that is fought for. A culture carried in the heart.”
Why is “Zdybanka” taking place on August 23?
Have you ever wondered why the Day of the State Flag of Ukraine is celebrated precisely on the eve of Ukraine’s Independence Day?
It’s simple: in Kyiv the blue‑and‑yellow banner was first raised over the city hall on July 24, 1990, and the Day of the State Flag was then observed only at the municipal level in the capital every July 24.
Then, on August 23, 1991, after the failed coup in Moscow, members of parliament carried the national blue‑and‑yellow Ukrainian flag into the session hall of the Verkhovna Rada, where it was blessed by UAPC priest Petro Boyko — the very event commemorated by Presidential Decree No. 987/2004 of Leonid Kuchma “On the Day of the State Flag of Ukraine.” A commemorative painting was placed on the Rada wall, and that original flag is now preserved under glass in the Rada’s museum as a relic.
The very next day, on August 24, 1991, Ukraine became independent.
Kuchma’s decree was later supplemented by Presidential Decree No. 602/2009 of Viktor Yushchenko “On Amendments to Presidential Decree No. 987 of August 23, 2004,” which mandated raising the Flag of Ukraine on the Day of the State Flag and during other state holidays and nationwide events.
It is to this sacred date that “Ukrainian Zdybanka under the Flags Tel Aviv‑Jaffa August 23, 2025” is dedicated.
The question “Why this date?” answers itself through historical continuity: the symbol raised in the Rada at a decisive moment returns once more to the streets — now far from the Ukrainian capital, in the heart of Old Jaffa.
“💙💛 Dear Ukrainian community in Israel! 💛💙
We invite you to our “Zdybanka under the Flags” — a family event for the Day of the State Flag and Independence Day of Ukraine, uniting history and modernity, traditions and creativity, and, most importantly, supporting those who today are fighting for Ukraine’s independence at the front.”, the organizers write.

Israelis feel a deep affinity for the spirit of the struggle for freedom and independence, having themselves endured a long and arduous journey to establish and defend their state. That is why the Day of the State Flag of Ukraine resonates with many in Israel — each stripe on the banner serves as a reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering faith in the right to freedom. On this day, they see in Ukrainian colors the same thirst for nationhood that once guided their ancestors, capable of uniting peoples through the power of national symbols.
When and where the festival will take place
On Saturday, August 23, 2025, precisely at 17:00, the doors of the friendly space “Nothing: place without commitment” (29 HaTzorfim St., Tel Aviv‑Jaffa) will open to all comers.
This family‑friendly format welcomes children from two years old, teenagers, and adults, closing at 20:30 so guests have time for fun and meaningful discussion. Admission is free, but participation in workshops requires voluntary donations for the needs of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade (47 OMBr), where over a thousand soldiers currently serve.
Admission is free. Event language: Ukrainian. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 17:00.
Organizers’ event and registration link — https://www.facebook.com/events/1233339428054792/
What awaits participants in the program
The festival program offers something for everyone to feel connected to their Ukrainian roots while supporting Ukraine’s defenders:
- Workshop on making pinwheels (ages 2+)
- Lantern‑painting workshop (for children and adults)
- Choral improvisation with Olya Chernyshova (Group [O], ages 8+ and adults)
- Puppet show for little ones by MAK_UA
- Quiz on Ukrainian Independence with instant prizes
- Concert of traditional and contemporary Ukrainian music
- Interactive historical tour – a journey back in time, 34 years ago
- Raffle of authentic gifts for donations to the Armed Forces
- Mobile library
- Fair of top Ukrainian‑rooted products and treats from “SHO?” restaurant
Each program item is designed to give a human voice to the hidden meanings of these historic dates.
How to participate and what’s next
To not miss the summer’s main patriotic marathon, simply register. You’ll find a detailed map, transit and parking recommendations, and tips on what to bring.
Rest assured: even if you know August 23 well, the “Zdybanka” format will present the celebration from a fresh perspective.
Who stands behind it all
The project is organized by “Ukrainian Zdybanky in Israel” — volunteers gathering like‑minded people since 2020.
“Historical Arsenal” ensures scholarly accuracy and educational context, while MAK_UA/Ukrainian Artistic Amateur Forge adds folk color through theater, crafts, and artistry.
The venue is provided by “Nothing: place without commitment,” known for its unique formats and cozy atmosphere.
“Ukrainian Zdybanka under the Flags” on August 23, 2025 is more than a series of events and workshops. It’s a living link between past and present, homeland and diaspora, history and action. This festival is our response to aggression: here, symbols gain flesh and voice, and every ticket purchase becomes a contribution to supporting those who defend freedom.
“💛 Come with your whole family.
Let’s immerse Old Jaffa in blue‑and‑yellow — remember, give thanks, be inspired.
Independence is not just a 1991 memory. It’s a choice and action today.
🇺🇦 We’re waiting for you!“, the organizers invite.
NAnews — Israel News: Don’t miss your chance to be part of the history we write together!
Admission is free. Event language: Ukrainian. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 17:00.
Organizers’ event and registration link — https://www.facebook.com/events/1233339428054792/
