“So that each of us has hope in our hearts!”: how ChristmasFest in Romania warmed the hearts of Ukrainian families
Christmas is a time when hearts are filled with light and homes with warmth. However, for millions of Ukrainians who ended up abroad because of the war, this holiday took on a different meaning. For many, it has become a symbol of support, hope and unity, especially for children who feel the burden of separation from home the most.
In January, in the Romanian city of Oradea, for the third time since the beginning of the war, the “Christmas Festival – ChristmasFest 2024-2025” was held, organized by the Ukrainian community of Christian believers in partnership with local churches and charitable organizations. Journalists of IA “FAKT” attended this event, which gathered about 200 guests. Among them were many children – those who, despite all the difficulties of the war, continue to smile and dream.
Photo: IA “FACT”
The organizers of the holiday emphasized that their main goal is to give Ukrainians, especially children, a time of joy and renewed faith in the best. In their address to the guests, they wrote:
“In times of sadness and difficulties, it is extremely important to stop and have time to be happy and support each other. That is why we want to celebrate this Christmas with you. So that everyone can bring light and warmth to their home. To make children smile and be happy. So that each of us has hope in our hearts!”.
These words became the heart of the event, creating an atmosphere of unity and love that united everyone present, regardless of age.
Photo: IA “FACT”
The holiday in Oradea was full of events that made even those who had long forgotten how to do it smile. The guests had the opportunity to enjoy the performances of the children’s and youth choir. Their voices rang out as a reminder of the strength of the Ukrainian spirit and faith in a bright future. The performance of the children’s choir, which performed Christmas carols in Ukrainian, was especially touching, bringing sincere smiles and tears to the faces of those present.
An equally bright part of the program was the performance of the Ukrainian theater. It was not only entertainment, but also an important step towards the preservation of Ukrainian culture among those who were forced to leave their native land.
The culmination of the evening was a quiz with a prize draw, which added interactivity and even more smiles to the event. In the final, each family received a festive set with Ukrainian sweets, which became a symbol of warmth, joy and home comfort.
After the official part of the event, the guests could chat over a cup of tea or coffee, and sweets were prepared for the children. The photo zone became another center of joy: Ukrainian families took pictures together to keep these warm moments in their hearts and memories.
For Ukrainian refugees who have found themselves far from home, especially for children, such measures are invaluable. They bring back the feeling of a holiday, allow them to forget about difficulties for at least a few hours, add confidence that they are not left alone with their problems.
Photo: IA “FACT”
ChristmasFest is an example of how joint efforts can create a miracle even in the most difficult times. It is not only about gifts or entertainment, but about a reminder that love and support can overcome any difficulties.
For children, who are the most vulnerable victims of war, such events become small islands of happiness that help them maintain faith in a bright future. And this is probably the most important gift that can be given today.
