**Ukrainian Electronic Music Festival Returns to Kyiv, Defying Russian Aggression**
For the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the ICKPA electronic music festival is returning to its birthplace, Kyiv. The festival will take place on July 25-27, bringing a unique blend of Ukrainian and international music, art installations, and public discussions to the city.
Founded in 2021 by a local Ukrainian team and the Georgian club Bassiani, ICKPA (pronounced “Iskra,” which means “Spark” in Ukrainian) was initially envisioned as an annual event aimed at amplifying the voices of creative communities from Eastern European countries. The festival’s return to Kyiv is seen as a powerful statement against Russian imperialism.
The lineup features 34 Ukrainian and international DJs and artists, including British acts Bruno Schmidt and Gwenan, and Danish electronic artist Kasper Marott. Ukrainian performers will showcase their talents through solo sets and back-to-back performances by notable artists such as Ana B, Domnitsa, and Vera Logdanidi. Local collective Fusion Jams will also take the stage.
Beyond music, ICKPA is committed to fostering dialogue and cultural exchange between Ukraine and Georgia. The two nations share a history of resistance against Russian imperialism, with 20% of Georgian territory occupied by Russia since its 2008 invasion. This year’s festival features a public discussion titled “Politics of Resistance: Anticipation of the Future in Ukraine and Georgia,” which will bring together artists, activists, and scholars to explore the future of both countries within the context of war and destruction.
**A Political Act**
ICKPA views its return to Kyiv as a deliberate act of defiance against Russian aggression. In their manifesto, the festival states, “To hold a festival in a place where cultural identity is under threat — to be present in Kyiv, where people fight — is a response to imperialist rhetoric.”
By bringing Ukrainian artists and music to the international stage, ICKPA seeks to amplify the voices of creative communities from Eastern Europe and promote cultural exchange between Western and Eastern European countries.
**Security Measures**
For security reasons, the exact location of the festival will be announced just one day before it begins. Festival passes (three-day tickets) can be purchased online for Hr 1,400 ($33), with one-day tickets also available.
As Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression, events like ICKPA serve as a powerful symbol of resistance and resilience. By celebrating Ukrainian culture and creativity, the festival aims to inspire hope and solidarity among its attendees.
**A Message from Linda**
Linda, a Ukrainian journalist investigating Russia’s global influence and disinformation, emphasizes the importance of such festivals in these challenging times: “In the pursuit of equal, just, and solidaristic societies, it is essential to have powerful examples in the struggle — symbols that ground us and unite those around us.”
**Read More**
To learn more about ICKPA and its mission, visit their Instagram page or explore this article for further details.
