While the world knows “Carol of the Bells,” its origins lie in the ancient Ukrainian tradition of “Malanka.” On Dec. 28, the vibrant spirit of Bukovyna arrived in Lviv. Performers from the village of Vashkivtsi gathered at Shevchenkivskyi Hai to celebrate Malanka — a centuries-old festival of disguises, traditional costumes, and folk theater. Rooted in pre-Christian customs, Malanka was historically a celebration of the New Year. Today, these festivities remain a vital part of Ukraine’s