Independence Day in Puerto de la Cruz, 2026

This time, everything came together quite spontaneously — without a big stage, an official program, or weeks of preparation. We simply wanted to gather together on a day that is important to all of us. And perhaps that is exactly why the evening turned out to be especially warm and sincere.

Ukrainians of all ages came to the park — families with children, friends, acquaintances, and people meeting each other for the first time. People talked, got to know one another, brought food to share, and simply spent the evening together. Ukrainian flags flew over the park, the Ukrainian language could be heard all around, and there was that familiar atmosphere you miss especially deeply when you are far from home.

Today, Independence Day has a completely different meaning for us than it did just a few years ago. It is no longer simply a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of who we are, of our country, of the people defending it, and of the bond between Ukrainians no matter where in the world each of us may be today.

It was especially wonderful to see how many people came, even though the gathering had been organized almost at the last moment. For a few hours, Taoro Park became a small Ukrainian corner of Puerto de la Cruz — friendly, lively, vibrant, and wonderfully familiar.

Thank you to everyone who spent this evening with us, who brought Ukrainian flags, food, good spirits, and simply their presence.

Gatherings like this remind us once again that even thousands of kilometers away from Ukraine, we can remain close to one another and continue supporting our culture, language, and community.

Happy Independence Day, Ukraine! 🇺🇦