Join us for a community celebration of dumpling delights from around the world!
Coinciding with the start of Refugee Week Rochdale’s Dumpling Day brings the community together to celebrate our diverse culinary heritage. From Ukrainian varenyky to Bangladeshi guror handesh and Lancashire hot pot, a mix of dumplings are regularly made and enjoyed at kitchen tables throughout the borough.
Taking dumplings as our focal point, the day will entail tastings, creative activities and music performances. See items from Touchstones museum collection and hear about the Dining Room Project as part of the buildings redevelopment.
As well as Refugee Week the early summer date connects to the historical tradition of Wakes Day in Lancashire mill towns – an annual holiday for mill workers that saw music, dancing and a festival feel throughout the town. Gather your friends and family for a day of celebration, honouring Rochdale’s diverse communities and the universal love for dumplings!
Activities:
- Dumpling tasting from Ukrainian, Nigerian and Bangladeshi cooks
- Make your own dumplings with Heart&Parcel
- Hear from Touchstones museum team
- Have a go at Argentinian weaving
- Crochet with Knitty Gritty
Why Dumplings?
In Ukrainian culture, the dumpling holds a special significance beyond just being a national dish; the Ukrainian dumpling varenyky are also seen as a cherished talisman. In Ukrainain history varenyky’s cresent shape have been likened to a young moon and were once used as sacrificial offerings near spring water sources.
Varieties of the simple dough filled pocket or parcel of the ‘dumpling’ are found across the globe. Steaming, boiling, frying, or baking unlocks endless culinary possibilities. Different countries put a distinct spin on their dumplings, influenced by their agricultural produce, climate, cultural tastes and cooking methods. Ukrainian varenyky fillings include cherries and bilberries reflecting common and wild fruits found across the country.
The dumpling can therefore be considered a food that unites different cultures. It is shared across countries and continents, evolving through trade, migration and cultural exchange.
Access Information
The Ukrainian Centre has a designated car park at the front of its building. There is also opportunity to park for free on the residential streets surrounding the venue.
There are a small number of steps up to the venue entrance and inside the building.
Accessible toilets are located on the ground floor near the entrance.
Additional toilets are located in the basement and are signposted clearly.
Dumpling Day is occurring in the bar and hall of the centre. The bar is all one level with seating booths. There are 3 steps down into a large hall where dumpling tasting and activities will be taking place. The Hall is all one level.
To avoid steps from the bar area an accessible route to the hall will be signposted from the main entrance.
It will be a busy day with noise of people and live music. There is a quiet space available for visitors to use if needed.
Dumpling Day – Saturday 14 June 11am-3pm
Location: Ukrainian Centre, Mere St, Rochdale
