Kyiv visitors hand bouquets to flower display

The hillsides of Spivoche Pole on the banks of the Dnieper river in Kyiv are known for their large-scale flower arrangements and right now UEFA EURO 2012 provides the theme.

In a display that began on 8 June and runs until 5 August, compositions made up of 350,000 plants provide a stunning backdrop in the park. On public holidays and matchdays it is the setting for concerts and workshops of modelling and floral design, including competitions.

Kateryna, visiting the exhibition with her husband and daughter, said: "We have come here for the third time because there is a very positive atmosphere and we have a lot of fun. We are also planning to visit one of the concerts here. We are interested in Ukrainian music, and what could be better on a summer's evening than to enjoy nice music in such a beautiful place?"

Among the arrangements is one in the style of Ukraine's traditional Petrikivskiy painting. The image is that of a blue bird, which is the symbol of happiness in Ukrainian legend. No less impressive is a combination of Ukrainian Petrikivskiy painting with a heraldic lily – a symbol of France, who will stage the next finals in 2016.

"It is very hard to describe this in words," one fan visiting Kyiv, Adam, told UEFA.com. "You should be here to experience this beautiful atmosphere and see all this beauty for yourself. That's why I will recommend that all my friends in Kyiv visit this place. There is still plenty of time for this."

Indeed, it is difficult to convey all the beauty created by the organisers for locals and foreign tourists. Nobody remains indifferent after seeing a great ball, located on the background of a pitch. Tulips symbolise the countries hosting UEFA EURO 2012 and reflect the colours of the flags of Ukraine and Poland. Of course, the exhibition would not be complete without a 3m-tall Henri Delaunay trophy.

"We absolutely love it," says Andriy, brought here by his friends. "There is so much thought here and it is very symbolic. It's extremely interesting to visit this exhibition, which intertwines many parts: emblems of the tournament, symbols of countries hosting EURO now and in the future. We have had a very good time here."