On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Ukrainian community came together for a historic and inspiring evening at Scotiabank Arena for the First Annual Ukrainian Community Night, held during the Toronto Raptors vs. Chicago Bulls game. The event marked a powerful celebration of culture, unity, and community pride in one of Canada’s most iconic sporting venues.
The evening began with an exclusive pre-game experience, where community members gathered early to connect, celebrate, and share in a sense of collective identity. The Ukrainian group was also given a special opportunity to participate in a pre-game shootaround, creating an unforgettable and unique experience for attendees. The arena was filled with many attendees proudly wearing traditional vyshyvanky, carrying Ukrainian flags, and holding handmade poster boards. Many participants also wore red and black in support of the Toronto Raptors, blending community pride with team spirit. The atmosphere was one of joy, resilience, and solidarity.
Families, youth and supporters filled the stands, creating a vibrant and visible presence that highlighted the strength and unity of the Ukrainian community in Toronto and beyond. The event offered more than just a night of basketball—it created a space for cultural expression, connection, and visibility within the broader Canadian community.
The 1st Annual Ukrainian Community Night demonstrated the power of gathering in shared spaces to celebrate heritage. It set a meaningful precedent for future annual events and reaffirmed the importance of community-driven initiatives that bring people together through sport, culture, and shared values. Organized by Ania Jacyniak in collaboration with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Toronto Branch, the event reflected a strong vision and wider community partnership.
As the final buzzer sounded, one message was clear: this was not just a game—it was the beginning of a new tradition. Ukrainian Community Night at Scotiabank Arena will continue to grow in the years to come.
Nadia Gereliouk
