Why did they shoot from a cannon in the Transcarpathian Velyatino? (Photo report)

With the record dzyama, shooting from a cannon and a new well, flying paints and the music of Pur:Pur and VV…

This what the "Pyntya-Fest" in one of the most picturesque villages of Transcarpathia – Velyatyno – was like.

The picturesque backwoods of Khust district is generally notorious for hard-working people and interesting ideas.And also, for beautiful legends. One of them is about the famous Pyntya, the Giant.

Actually, it is him that the event, which took place for the second time now, was dedicated to. Last year, they unveiled a monument to the hero of fairy tales, who, nevertheless, as they say in the village, was a historical figure. And today, they opened new well in Velyatyno. They say that the water in it is healing as the village is famous for its medicinal and thermal waters.

The festival started with shots from a cannon. It is an inherent attribute which is associated with Pyntya, as he’s most known for having allegedly hit the Khust Castle shooting from the mountain. In general, Pyntya is a classic image of the noble bandit – opryshok, who robbed the rich and gave to the poor. The legends say that the Giant gave his force to famous Oleksa Dovbush.

Apparently, people of Velyatyno believe that opryshoks, and all guests in general, must eat a lot of delicious and satisfying food. Therefore the festival was celebrated with the record dzyama. It is a nourishing chicken broth, seasoned with sour cream, which not a single feast, and especially wedding, in the village can be without. At the "Pyntya-Fest", they set a record of Ukraine: 5872 liters of dzyama boiled in one pot. 

And the apotheosis of the festival was a great concert featuring, in addition to local folk groups and soloists, known Transcarpathian groups, particularly "Chalamada", and guest stars – the band Pur:Pur and Oleg Skrypka with his band "VV".

But first, everyone took part in the "color battle" – sprinkling with holi paintsl, which is truly fun and colorful. 

After the nutritional dzyama and to the good music, Velyatyno was celebrating into the night. 

You can see the moments of the festival day in the photos! And see more photos of the vibrant holiday in our photo report, which is available HERE.