Picnics in Kyiv's Parks

Food as Communication: Picnics in Kyiv's Parks

   I grew up in Kyiv – a city where nature and urbanism harmoniously intertwine. The parks of my city have always been a place of peace, inspiration, and warm gatherings for me. Picnics in Kyiv’s parks have been a part of my life since childhood. From Pavlivskyi Square to Mariinsky Park and Holosiivskyi Forest, each location provided its own unique experiences. These are places where I feel at ease and at peace. Picnics with loved ones are not just a break, but a moment of unity. It is a place where friends, family, or colleagues come together to share the joy of life. Organizing such gatherings became a tradition for me, and I call these gatherings “For Those We Love.” Every month, I created a festive atmosphere outdoors: blankets, fragrant dishes, flowers, with homemade treats always being the main highlight.

   Once, in an effort to make our picnic extra special, I decided to create unique sweets – cherry candies. Their taste became the embodiment of summer, joy, and childhood memories. Made exclusively from natural cherries, these candies combine simplicity and elegance. The idea emerged during one of the picnics at the botanical garden, where I realized how important it is to create something of your own – something that brings joy both to yourself and to others. These candies were made in collaboration with a talented Ukrainian confectioner, Vasylina, who took on all the responsibilities for crafting the sweets. Her team created miniature puzzle bars inspired by my painting "Spring," which I created in 2021 and presented at a museum in 2022. The candy design was inspired by this painting. It is a refined treat that resembles puzzle pieces coming together to form a harmonious whole when laid out on a table. It became a true work of art that you can not only taste but also admire.

   The cherry candies quickly became popular among my friends. They not only perfectly complement the picnic atmosphere but also symbolize that food can be not just a taste but a way to convey love and warmth. Kyiv’s parks are unique places where time seems to slow down, and you can savor every moment. The picnics I organized became my way of sharing my love for this city, its nature, and the warm moments spent with loved ones. And soon, spring will arrive – a time for new gatherings in nature, picnics, and open conversations. Take care of your picnic calendar, find time for those you love, and never forget the importance of connecting with each other. Create moments worth remembering and leave space for true emotions and tastes, says Veronika Chekaliuk, author of Food as Communication.