Ukrainian Festival Combines Climbing and Music Amid Conflict

In Denyshi, Ukraine, situated atop a steep granite cliff two hours west of Kiev, a festival brings hundreds together for a unique experience. The event, named Stoned Climbers, blends rock climbing, music, and community gathering in the Zhytomyr region.

Throughout the day, attendees engage in activities like rock climbing, swimming in nearby reservoirs, and paddle surfing. As evening falls, live bands and DJs take center stage, filling the wooded area with rock and electronic music.

Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the festival incorporates reminders of the war’s presence. Air raid notifications were a common occurrence for visitors during the weekend. Soldiers on leave mingled with crowds, while proceeds benefited the Ukrainian Azov Brigade’s relief fund. Unlike last year, no drones or missiles disturbed the skies above.

Managed by volunteers, Stoned Climbers started in 2023, initiated by a group of 15 friends inspired by Yosemite’s rock climbing culture. This American park is famous for its role in developing modern rock climbing, where enthusiasts spend months navigating granite walls.

“We realized climbing could be more than a sport,” said Dmytro Isaienko, festival co-founder. “It’s a lifestyle: being in nature, camping, on the rocks.”

Initially attracting 150 visitors, this summer’s attendance exceeded 500, comprising mostly beginners and amateur climbers. Isaienko emphasizes the festival’s broader purpose during wartime: creating a space for learning, community, and personal well-being.

The climbing community continues to grow even amidst war. Instructors assist newcomers with gear as they navigate the 25-meter cliffs, celebrating first-time ascents with applause. Among the attendees was Liliia Karpach, who traveled from Lviv, eager to reconnect with outdoor climbing and meet new people.

Karpach views climbing as both a mental and physical challenge, encouraging others to try it.

“Invite friends if you’re nervous. Even without experience, you’ll have fun,” she advised.

For instructor Andrii Lamei, instilling confidence in novices is rewarding. While helping a beginner during her climb, he guided her calmly through challenges. Her confidence grew with each move, culminating in a triumphant reach of the summit.

“Look around. Enjoy the moment. You did it,” Lamei encouraged. “Climbing helps manage stress and tackle daily life’s challenges.”

Lamei dreams of climbing outside Ukraine but remains bound by travel restrictions.

“I’d like to visit Yosemite and Norway’s mountains, but I can’t. Perhaps I’m meant to enjoy what’s here,” he reflected.

Isaienko acknowledges the significance of festivals like Stoned Climbers. Amid paused lives due to war, he hopes the gathering around these cliffs fosters new traditions. The festival welcomes everyone, even those new to climbing.

With each new climber reaching the summit, the applause from below suggests a growing community.

This article was translated from English by an AP editor with the assistance of a generative AI tool.