Bewitching!
That spookiest of celebrations – Halloween – is fast approaching
Despite Halloween not being a typical Ukrainian celebration, the march of commercialism has seen it gain a foothold, and many themed events now occur in Kyiv. It is perhaps a surprise it took so long because Kyiv is known for many legendary tales that centre on the black arts.
For example, there are 13 Bald Mounts here — places, where witches allegedly met and made their pacts with darkness. The most famous include Castle Mount overlooking Andriivsky Descent and Virgin Mount at Vydubuchi. Virgin Mount is even identified by the Vatican as a place affected by malevolent forces! It’s impossible to not apply this celebration dedicated to ignore the dead, including saints or hallows, martyrs, and all the faithful departed here. That’s just the religious take, otherwise the event continues to take on the guise of a more and more commercial and secular celebration which seems to be the case in Kyiv.
At a loss for what to do this All Saints’ Eve? Read on.
Halloween at Lysa Hora
Metro Kontraktova Square
31 October at 19.00
Lysa Hora is one of the most mysterious places in Kyiv. There are many legends and stories about local witches and evil spirits frequenting here. On Halloween night you can almost feel it. A special festive show, divinations, and magic potions will all collide to make All Saints Eve a memorable one. Visit the Mermaid’s Grove and climb Lysa Hora to take in the views of the Andriivsky district and great panoramas of the night city.
250 UAH
Voland’s Ball
Desyatynna 12
31 October at 20.00
Have you read The Master and Margarita? If so, welcome to Voland’s Ball! This costumed party features photo-zones, bars, lounge zones and other surprises — maybe, if Bulgakov wrote his novel in the 21th century, Satan’s party would have looked a little like this. Will you tempt evil attending a dark séance or watch a hedonistic and sinful ballet? Or dance at a DJ-led pagan sabbath until sunup? It’s your choice.
700 UAH
Halloween at Bulgakov’s Museum
Andriivsky Descent 13
29, 30, 31 October at 20.00
Are you brave enough to discover all the secrets of Bulgakov’s house? This is your chance to visit the Great Ball on the darkest night of the year. It features a theatrical promenade in the legendary house, interesting stories from mysterious novels, a jazz-performance, and masquerade ball. There is a dress code: cocktail, black and silver for women and black and white for men.
400 UAH
Halloween Horror Night 2018
Bingo (Peremohy 112)
27 October at 17.00
This is the biggest rock celebration of Halloween: some 13 hours of live rock and electronic music. Aggressive alternative rock from Respect Your Mom, punks Komissiya, mystic trip-hop from Shadazz, wild energy from Osnova, and garage psychedelic performed by Slow Action will electrify audiences. There will also be a costume competition and festive fair. Grab your Jack-O-Lantern and plan to be there from the gloaming until the first light.
200 UAH
All Invited Except for Vampires
Let’s not follow the stereotype that Halloween is a time for vampires – but…donors! Blood donation is among the most noble service we can engage in: this small activity can save the lives of thousands. The American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine with the support by Sayenko Kharenko Law Firm in partnership with DonorUA and Park Inn by Radisson Kyiv Troyitska Hotel is proud to continue its initiative to celebrate Halloween by donating blood to Kyiv hospitals.
This Halloween, gather your friends, families, and colleagues in the trendy Park Inn Hotel in the very centre of the city on 31 of October from 09.00 to 13.00. Snacks, treats, a photo zone and even an award for the best team result will be waiting! You can – and should – use the QR code for registration.
