Ukrainian climbers forge new outdoor culture during war
Denyshi, July 5: At a granite cliff about two hours west of Kyiv, hundreds of people gathered for the Stoned Climbers festival, Ukraine’s largest outdoor event combining rock climbing, camping, and live music. Held in the Zhytomyr region, the volunteer-run festival brought together beginners and experienced climbers for a weekend of climbing, swimming, stand-up paddling, and evening performances by live bands and DJs in the forest.
Despite the wartime setting, the festival atmosphere blended leisure with reminders of ongoing conflict. Visitors received repeated air raid alerts on their phones, and soldiers on leave were present among the crowds. Organizers also directed festival profits to a fundraising initiative supporting Ukraine’s Azov Brigade. Unlike the previous year, no missiles or drones crossed overhead during the event.
Founded in 2023 by a small group of climbing enthusiasts inspired by Yosemite’s outdoor culture, the festival has grown from about 150 participants in its first year to more than 500 this summer. Co-founder Dmytro Isaienko said the goal was to make climbing accessible beyond elite athletes and to promote a lifestyle connected to nature, camping, and community.
Amid the ongoing war, Isaienko said the festival also serves a deeper purpose by offering people a temporary escape from conflict and a chance to rebuild social bonds. He believes such gatherings help sustain mental well-being during prolonged hardship.
On the cliffs, instructors guided first-time climbers through basic techniques, helping them fasten harnesses, chalk their hands, and navigate the granite walls. Each successful ascent was met with applause from spectators and fellow climbers, many experiencing the sport for the first time.
Among them was 21-year-old Liliia Karpach, who said she attended to reconnect with climbing and meet new people. Instructor Andrii Lamei described climbing as a way to manage stress and build confidence, especially in difficult times. However, like many Ukrainian men under wartime restrictions, he is unable to travel abroad to climb internationally.
Organizers hope the festival will help build a lasting outdoor community in Ukraine. Isaienko said that even during war, new traditions can emerge, and each first climb symbolizes resilience, growth, and shared hope for the future. (AP)
250th anniversary of the US, at the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, on Sunday. (PTI)
