The Light for Ukraine event begins at 6pm. The programme will include, among other things, performances by Ukrainian choirs and a commemorative speech. The programme will conclude with the Finlandia Hymn. The event will be attended by Finnish state leadership as well as diplomats from around the world. A more detailed programme will be updated closer to the event.
2,000 candles will be distributed by the organisers from 5.30pm onwards. You can also lay your own grave candle on the steps of the Helsinki Cathedral from 3pm onwards. After the event, the candles will be collected by the Ukrainian Association in Finland and sent out to the front in Ukraine, where their wax will be repurposed for energy and light sources.
You can also participate in the event remotely through social media by posting a picture of a candle or a candle emoji. The hashtags for this event are #WeMustNOTForget and #WeStandWithUkraine.
The Light for Ukraine event is organised by the Lutheran Church in Helsinki, Mothersforpeace ry, and the Ukrainian Association in Finland in cooperation with the City of Helsinki, the University of Helsinki, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Finland and Iceland.
