Explore Ukrainian Heritage with Ukraine Appeal during Heritage Open Days 2026
On 11–20 September 2026, Ukraine Appeal invites the Milton Keynes community to discover, experience, and celebrate Ukrainian culture through a vibrant programme of 13 events delivered as part of Heritage Open Days.
Across exhibitions, workshops, performances, lectures, children’s activities, and community gatherings, our programme showcases the stories, art, traditions, creativity, and resilience of Ukrainians—both in Ukraine and here in Milton Keynes.
This year’s theme places special focus on identity, memory, crafts, and community, offering visitors a chance to learn, participate, and become part of the story.
All events are FREE!
Friday 11 September – Opening Day
Vyshyvanka: The Code of Identity Exhibition | 10:00–18:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Curator: Viktoriya Shtanko
Explore the symbolism of Ukrainian embroidery and its role as a cultural code passed through generations.
Threads of Home, Memory and Heritage Exhibition | 10:00–13:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Curator: Yaroslava Demutska
A textile‑based reflection on home, displacement, and the threads that hold identity together.
Art Is Advantage Exhibition | 10:00–13:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Artist: Yuliya Kharchenko
A contemporary art showcase exploring strength, transformation, and creative resilience.
Petrykivka Art Masterclass Workshop | 17:00–19:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Tutor: Agneta Shashkova
Learn the bright, floral folk art technique recognised by UNESCO.
Saturday 12 September – Community Day
Living Museum of Ukrainian Legends and Myths Performance | 14:00–15:30 | Ukrainian Sunflower School
Led by Oksana Havrylova
Children bring ancient stories to life through theatre, costume, and imagination.
Morning exhibitions at Church of Christ, the Cornerstone:
Sunday 13 September – Hero Run Day
Hero Run 2026 Charity run | 10:00–13:00 | Furzton Lake
A community run honouring Ukraine’s defenders.
Exhibitions continue at Church of Christ, the Cornerstone.
Monday 14 September - Pottery and Stories
Stressed at Work? Blame the Clay! Workshop | 10:00–14:00 | Keko Club, Newport
Tutor: Kat, Keko Club
A creative clay session exploring stress relief through hands‑on craft.
Palyanytsya Radio Show: Everyday Stories Live Radio (online) | 17:00–19:00 | Stony Radio
Host: Oksana Havrylova
Ukrainian voices share everyday experiences of rebuilding life in the UK.
Exhibitions at Church of Christ
Tuesday 15 September – Craft and History
Exhibitions at Church of Christ (10:00–18:00)
Creating Macrame Prypynda – Garment Piece Workshop | 17:00–18:30 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Tutor: Dana Heorhichuk
Learn to create a traditional macrame accessory.
“The First University of Eastern Europe”: 450 Years of the Ostroh Academy Online Lecture | 18:00–19:00 Speaker: Nataliia Niekrasa
Marking the anniversary of Ukraine’s first higher‑education institution.
Wednesday 16 September – Exhibitions Continue
All three exhibitions remain open at Church of Christ, the Cornerstone (10:00–18:00).
Thursday 17 September – Creative Recovery
Reconnect to You: Stories, Reflection and Creative Recovery Workshop | 17:00–19:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Tutor: Iryna Kokhanovska
A gentle wellbeing session using storytelling and creativity.
Exhibitions at Church of Christ, the Cornerstone (10:00–18:00)
Friday 18 September – Taste of Tradition
The Taste of Ukrainian Tradition Workshop | 17:00–19:00 | Church of Christ, the Cornerstone
Tutor: Iryna Kirianenko
Discover the flavours, rituals, and stories behind Ukrainian festive dishes.
Exhibitions at Church of Christ, the Cornerstone (10:00–18:00)
Saturday 19 September – Exhibitions Continue
Exhibitions continue until early afternoon.
Sunday 20 September – Closing Performance
Let’s Just Do It! – Comedy Performance 18:00–20:00 | Guildhall, MK9 2ES
A volunteer‑led show closing the Heritage Open Days programme with humour and heart.
Join Us
Ukraine Appeal’s Heritage Open Days programme celebrates the richness of Ukrainian culture, the creativity of our community, and the shared heritage we build together in Milton Keynes.
All events are FREE. Some activities require pre‑booking — please check full event announcements for detailed registration information.
Discover. Participate. Be part of the story.
Explore our calendar and stay up to date with all upcoming Ukraine Appeal events.
