February 21–28, 2026 | Kamloops, British Columbia
As the world marks the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2026, the Kamloops community is coming together for a powerful week of commemorating events — honouring those who have fallen, celebrating the resilience of the Ukrainian people, and reaffirming our unwavering solidarity.
From an immersive virtual reality exhibition to sacred memorial services, a diaspora art retrospective, and the continuation of a vigil tradition now spanning 210 consecutive Saturdays, this week invites all community members to see, feel, remember, and stand together.
Saturday, February 21 — “War Up Close” Virtual Reality Exhibition
Old Court House, Kamloops | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The acclaimed “War Up Close” virtual reality exhibition comes to Kamloops. This powerful digital project has been traveling the world for more than three years, sharing the truth about Ukraine’s ongoing struggle through immersive 360° panoramic images and drone footage.
The exhibition does not depict graphic violence. Instead, it documents the destruction of Ukrainian cities, schools, and hospitals — clear evidence of crimes committed against the Ukrainian people. Visitors consistently describe the experience as transformative, saying it feels as though they are actually standing in Ukraine.
The exhibition also features “Sunflower Dreams” — heartfelt artworks by Ukrainian children displaced by war. These children once lived in the homes now reduced to rubble in eastern and southern Ukraine. Now refugees in their own land, living in Lviv, they paint with joy, hope, and resilience in the brightest colours. But look closely, and you will see their trauma, loss, and pain woven into every brushstroke. The Sunflower Dreams project is inspired by Lviv art lecturer Nataliia Pavliuk and her daughter Yustyna, whose tireless and courageous program helps traumatized children heal through the peace of creating art.
Sustain Ukraine, a key partner in supporting Ukraine’s defenders, will also be present. In partnership with Teachers of Kyiv, they support powerful student-led efforts — from weaving camouflage netting and helmet covers to creating 3D-printing labs, repairing and donating vehicles, and raising funds. These students are not just learning — they are saving lives and giving hope.
Bring your family and friends. Come SEE what is actually happening in Ukraine. The event is free, with donations welcomed.
Saturday, February 21 — Global Gathering: Stand with Ukraine Rally & Day of Remembrance
Near City Hall, Kamloops | 3:00 PM
Kamloops joins communities around the world for a Global Day of Action marking the 4th anniversary of russia’s full-scale invasion. All are welcome to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. Local MPs Mel Arnold and Frank Caputo, along with other elected officials including the Mayor and local MLAs, have been invited to attend and reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukrainian newcomers, including advocating for fast-track permanent residency pathways.
Sunday, February 22 — Divine Liturgy and Panykhyda Memorial Service
Ukrainian Catholic Church, Kamloops
- 9:00 AM — Divine Liturgy
- 10:00 AM — Panykhyda: a solemn memorial service honouring all who have fallen in the war
The community gathers in prayer and remembrance to honour the thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, civilians, and children who have perished since Russia’s invasion. The Panykhyda — a solemn memorial service in the Ukrainian liturgical tradition — offers a sacred space to grieve, to remember, and to pray for peace.
All are welcome to attend.
Thursday, February 26 — “Memory, Time and Place”: Darlene Kalynka Retirement Exhibition
TRU Art Gallery, Old Main, Student Street | 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
The TRU Art Gallery hosts the opening reception for “Memory, Time and Place” — a retrospective exhibition celebrating the remarkable 38-year career of printmaker and Associate Professor Darlene Kalynka.
Her work explores life on the prairies and the Ukrainian diaspora experience — including her etching “Travelling in Ukraine.” The opening reception marks Darlene’s retirement from TRU.
Darlene has stood with Ukraine at our weekly vigils for all four years — a steadfast presence at every rally since the beginning. We honour her dedication both as an artist and as a member of our community of solidarity.
The exhibition runs February 23 to March 6. The TRU Art Gallery on Student Street in Old Main is open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM.
Saturday, February 28 — Stand with Ukraine: 4 Years of Solidarity in Kamloops
Near City Hall, Kamloops | 3:00 PM
Four years since Kamloops began standing with Ukraine.
Russia’s war on Ukraine began in 2014 with the invasion of Crimea and Donbas. The full-scale invasion followed on February 24, 2022. Two days later, on February 26, our community gathered for the first time — and we have not missed a single Saturday since.
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, we mark our 210th consecutive Saturday standing with Ukraine.
What began as an urgent response to the shock of invasion has become one of the longest-running continuous public gatherings with the people of Ukraine in Canada. Every week, community members gather with Ukrainian flags, signs, and an unshakeable commitment to ensuring that Ukraine is not forgotten.
Two hundred and ten Saturdays. Four years. One unwavering message: We stand with Ukraine.
All are welcome to join us.
A Community United
This week of events is made possible through the dedication and collaboration of many partners:
City of Kamloops · UCC Thompson Okanagan · Stand with Ukraine Kamloops · Thompson Rivers University · Ukrainian Catholic Church Kamloops · War Up Close · Sustain Ukraine · Sunflower Dreams · Meest Canada
All events are free. Donations are welcome.
Слава Україні! Героям Слава! Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!
For more information, contact Dr. Oleksandr (Sasha) Kondrashov | okondrashov@tru.ca
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