Our Forshmak Fest
Forshmak Fest took place at Kyiv Chesed - a delicious celebration of friendship, talent, and childhood memories
At the Kyiv Chesed Volunteer Center, as part of the “Interaction” project, a true celebration of taste took place - the very first Forshmak Fest! This culinary competition put the final decision not in the hands of a panel of titled judges, but with the center’s most experienced tasters- its beneficiaries.
From the very first moments, it was clear that this was more than a cooking contest; it was a parade of talent, friendship, and warm childhood memories. Participants enthusiastically presented their dishes - aromatic, original, and infused with family recipe secrets. Each forshmak carried its own story, as for many, this dish is a piece of childhood, home comfort, and love.
Each presentation included not only the dish itself but also recipes and scoring cards, where tasters rated taste, appearance, and creativity. When it came time to count the votes, it was impossible to choose a single winner - each forshmak was unique! The decision was unanimous - all ten participants were declared winners.
Each participant received a diploma, a delicious gift, countless heartfelt words, and a wave of applause. But most importantly, everyone left with a sense of joy, mutual support, and inspiration.
It was especially delightful that some participants came with their support teams, who actively assisted in organizing the event, creating a true atmosphere of unity.
The hall radiated a feeling reminiscent of warm gatherings in an old neighborhood courtyard: everyone was familiar, everyone smiling, each ready to lend a hand and share warmth. Beneficiaries and staff acted as judges, cooks worked like true magicians, and volunteers were the invisible angels without whom this celebration could not have happened.
Forshmak Fest proved that cooking is about much more than food. It is about connection, memory, mutual support, and human warmth. And although this was the first festival, everyone agrees - it will definitely not be the last. When people cook together with love, flavors transform into emotions, and culinary art becomes a true expression of the heart.