Constitution Day Weekend

Yesterday we went down to Independence Square to wander.  Little did we know that there was a HUGE festival going on all weekend.  It was definitely a good way to spend the day.  There were street vendors selling anything from collectables, books, food, beer, and souvenirs.  Live music in multiple places, a kid chalk art contest, etc.  There were carnival side-show type acts also.  In the photo album you will see a street magician.  In the photo he is in the process of escaping from a straight jacket and chains. 

We met up with the Fujans to explore the festivities, then went to a nice Italian restaurant for dinner.  It was a good change of pace to eat something familiar. 

We then went over to an open market where they sell anything from caviar, fish, meats, fruits, etc.  It's a whole different world.  There was fresh cut meat waiting for sale on the counters without refrigeration.  There were fish tanks with live fish for sale.  If you look at this picture, you will see what it was like:  http://www.philgreen.blog-city.com/54_lunchjpg.htm.  These are cow heads.  Still have the eyeballs and fur on the snout.  I'm not sure how you would prepare this, but I'm sure people here eat them. 

Today, we were looking for some more familiar food.  We have both been craving a burger.  So we got the closest thing to a 'real' burger we could find... McDonalds.  The food is the same as at home, except the menu is in Russian / Ukrainian.  After we finally communicated our order, we sat down inside to eat.  Ketchup is not included, but charged extra, kind of like bags at the grocery store!