DENYSHI, Ukraine (AP) - The Stoned Climbers festival recently took place in the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine, attracting hundreds of people to a scenic campsite atop a steep granite cliff. Festival-goers engaged in various outdoor activities, such as climbing, swimming, and stand-up paddling during the day. As night fell, the atmosphere transformed with performances from live bands and DJs, filling the forest with rock and electronic music.
This festival is the largest outdoor event in Ukraine that combines climbing and live music. Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, Stoned Climbers provided a much-needed escape for many, mixing leisure with the somber reality of the conflict. Throughout the weekend, attendees received multiple air raid alerts on their phones, and soldiers on leave mingled among the crowd. Significantly, this year, the skies above were clear of Russian drones and missiles, a stark contrast to previous years.
The festival, organized by around 15 friends passionate about climbing, was launched in 2023 after the group became inspired by the climbing culture of Yosemite National Park. Known as a birthplace of modern rock climbing, Yosemite has inspired a lifestyle centered around nature, camping, and climbing. Co-founder Dmytro Isaienko emphasized that climbing is about more than just sport; it represents a distinct way of life.
The initial festival attracted around 150 participants, but attendance has surged to over 500, primarily consisting of beginners and amateur climbers. Isaienko noted that the event is not just about climbing; it serves a larger purpose in the context of the war. By creating spaces for people to gather, learn new skills, and form connections, the festival aims to support personal well-being during these challenging times.
For many attendees, the festival offered a timely respite from the war's weight. Isaienko encouraged people to leave behind the chaos of Kyiv and spend time together in the tranquility of nature. On the cliffs, instructors assisted beginners in their first climbing experiences. The encouraging atmosphere was palpable as climbers reached their goals, receiving applause from instructors and spectators alike.
21-year-old Liliia Karpach traveled from the Lviv region to attend her first Stoned Climbers festival, expressing her eagerness to re-engage with rock climbing and meet fellow enthusiasts. She described climbing as both a mental and physical exercise, urging others to join her in the sport, even if they were novices.
Instructor Andrii Lamei, 24, found fulfillment in helping first-time climbers build their confidence. While guiding a young woman through her first ascent, he provided calm support as she perfected her technique. He highlighted how climbing can help manage stress both on the wall and in daily life. Despite his aspirations to climb internationally, Lamei, like many Ukrainian men, faces travel restrictions due to wartime regulations.
Isaienko believes that gatherings like Stoned Climbers are essential for fostering connections within the climbing community. While many aspects of life have been paused due to the ongoing conflict, he hopes the camaraderie built around the cliffs demonstrates that new traditions can flourish even in difficult times. He welcomes everyone to the event, irrespective of their climbing experience, reinforcing the notion that everyone can enjoy and contribute to the climbing culture.
As more first-time climbers celebrate their achievements, the festival's atmosphere becomes increasingly vibrant. Each moment shared on the cliffs represents the growth of a supportive community, uniting individuals with a shared passion for climbing, music, and resilience in the face of adversity.
