# International commemorations of Ukrainian independence

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/international-commemorations-of-ukrainian-independence
> Updated: 2026-08-19T11:21:44.000Z. Sources: 28. Developments: 2.

International communities are organizing various cultural and fundraising events to commemorate the anniversary of Ukrainian independence.

In the Netherlands, activities include seminars on psychological support and employment, photo exhibitions, musical performances, and a solidarity march. In Groningen, a ‘Run for Ukraine’ event is scheduled to raise funds through athletic activities and musical performances. 

In Canada, the ‘War Up Close’ initiative is expanding its reach. On August 22, the initiative will host a virtual reality museum and a Children’s Art Showcase at The Rotary Centre for the Arts in Kelowna. The exhibition uses 360-degree panoramic photography and drone footage to provide an immersive experience of war zones. Project coordinator Olena Heichenko noted that the visuals focus on the destruction of cities, schools, museums, and hospitals rather than depicting blood or deceased individuals. Co-founder and photographer Mykola Omelchenko stated that the materials serve as “factual visual evidence to document the reality of the conflict and preserve proof of crimes against civilians.” While admission is free, organizers encourage donations to support the exhibition’s continued travel across North America and Europe.

In Spain, the Ukrainian community is hosting a cultural event featuring traditional music, food, and crafts, with raffle proceeds intended to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

## Claims

- The War Up Close initiative is hosting a virtual reality museum and Children’s Art Showcase in Kelowna on August 22. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Kelowna exhibition will be held at The Rotary Centre for the Arts from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The War Up Close exhibition uses 360-degree panoramic photography and drone footage to document destruction in Ukraine. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Olena Heichenko is the coordinator of the War Up Close project in Canada. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Mykola Omelchenko is a co-founder and panoramic photographer of the War Up Close museum. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Torrevieja’s Ukrainian community will hold a cultural and fundraising event on August 22 to mark 35 years of Ukrainian independence. (single source)
- Funds raised during the Torrevieja event will support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Kelowna to host Ukraine war virtual reality museum

The ‘War Up Close’ VR museum and Children’s Art Showcase will visit Kelowna, Canada, on August 22, using immersive photography to document the impact of the war in Ukraine.

26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ukraine-independence-anniversary-marked-by-events-in-canada-and-spain

### 2026-08-16: Ukraine Independence Day commemorated with events in the Netherlands

Communities in Zwolle and Groningen are hosting events, including runs, concerts, and marches, to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day and raise funds for the country.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ukraine-independence-day-commemorated-with-events-in-the-netherlands

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Cite as: International commemorations of Ukrainian independence. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/international-commemorations-of-ukrainian-independence