On Saturday, 15 November 2025, team members of the GDIP Media Center first organised a pre-holiday workshop titled Christmas Star: The Light of Ukrainian Tradition at the Isaeva Gallery creative studio. The artistic event brought together diplomats from the embassies of Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as representatives of the European Union and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

In Ukraine, the Christmas star is one of the key attributes of the carolling tradition, symbolising the Star of Bethlehem. It is typically crafted from plywood, wood, or straw, and may be flat or three-dimensional. The star usually has 7 to 12 rays, decorated with coloured paper, fabric, ribbons, or foil. Traditionally, it is attached to a long stick, and carollers use it during their festive procession from house to house to announce the birth of Jesus to the hosts. The most valuable star is considered to be the one that rotates. In some regions of Ukraine, an icon of the Virgin Mary with the Infant Jesus is attached to this Christmas attribute, emphasising the sacred nature of the ritual. In many communities, the Christmas star is kept in the caroller’s home throughout the year as a symbol of light, warmth and prosperity.

During the workshop, the diplomats learned about the history and significance of the Christmas star in Ukrainian culture and mastered the technique of working with rye straw. Under the guidance of an experienced craftswoman, the participants created an eight-pointed star that can be used during carolling or kept at home.

Participants were provided with everything they needed for the craft: rye straw, tools and decorative elements. The finished piece could be taken home immediately. The workshop took place in a unique location in the centre of Kyiv with a picturesque view of St Sophia of Kyiv — a place filled with light, inspiration and creative energy that evokes a feeling of peace and harmony.

This event was a wonderful opportunity to connect with Ukrainian Christmas traditions, plunge into the atmosphere of festivities, warmth, and unity, and create a Christmas symbol with one’s own hands.