LITHUANIAN events calendar 2013
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January 1 – New Year’s Day; Poland Belgium Germany February 16 – Day of Re-establishment of the State of Lithuania (1918); Ukraine March 11 – Day of Restitution of Independence of Lithuania (from the Soviet Union, 1990); Czech Republic France Slovak Republic March 31 - April 1 (2013) – Easter; Austria Moldova Switzerland May 1 – International Labour Day; Hungary Slovenia Romania June 24 – St. John’s Day (Day of Dew); Italy Croatia Bosnia and July 6 – Statehood Day (commemorates the coronation of the first king, Mindaugas); Serbia Herzegovina August 15 – Assumption Day (Day of Grass); Montenegro Bulgaria Macedonia November 1 – All Saints’ Day; Albania December 24 – Christmas Eve; Greece December 25 and December 26 – Christmas. The Netherlands
Page
National festival
JANUARY
2
Holiday
FEBRUARY
4
Music, Opera
MARCH
6
Art
APRIL
8
Cinema
MAY
10
JUNE
16
JULY
20
AUGUST
26
SEPTEMBER
30
OCTOBER
34
NOVEMBER
36
DECEMBER
38
Fair
Sport
Festival
Dance
CONTENT
Thematic icons
Theater
1
JANUARY
EVENT CYCLE “DANCING KAUNAS” 2 DECEMBER 2012 – 6 JANUARY 2013 Old Town and City Hall Square, Kaunas. Throughout the Christmas season Kaunas will hold various live music concerts and cultural events with new and unseen “Dancing Christmas Trees” show at the epicentre. www.visit.kaunas.lt
THE THREE KINGS PROCESSION IN THE STREETS OF VILNIUS 6 JANUARY Old Town, Vilnius. Traditional parade from the Gates of Dawn through Vilnius Old Town. The figures of the Three Kings, following the Star, become the centre of the parade, which culminates at the Cathedral Square with the traditional performance, depicting the visit the Three Kings paid to the Baby Jesus. www.vilnius-events.lt
“ALMA MATER MUSICALIS” 7 JANUARY – 2 DECEMBER St. Johns’ Church, Vilnius. Lovers of contemporary classical music are invited to listen to the best Lithuanian performers during the seven-concert series. www.lmrf.lt
DAY OF THE LITHUANIAN FLAG 1 JANUARY Gediminas Hill, Vilnius. An annual solemn ceremony of replacing the flag held on Gediminas Hill in Vilnius on January 1st. www.vilnius-events.lt
“BIKERS’ MIDWINTER PARTY 2013” 11–13 JANUARY Molėtai highway 39 km. Probably the biggest winter open-air event in Lithuania. Started out as an entertainment event but gradually transformed into extreme sports celebration. www.voraimc.lt 2
11 JANUARY “Žalgiris” arena, Kaunas. Exceptionally massive event gathers together the best national music composers and performers and presents their latest works to the wide public. www.zalgirioarena.lt
SACRED MUSIC HOURS “SUNDAY MUSIC” 13 JANUARY – 8 DECEMBER
Cathedral Basilica, Vilnius. Every month’s second Sunday music lovers are invited to sacred music hours to enjoy wellknown and young singers’ performances. www.lmrf.lt
01.2013
LITHUANIAN POP MUSIC AWARDS “M.A.M.A.”
FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL “ECRANS D’HIVER” END OF JANUARY – BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY Movie theatres in various cities. French film festival entertaining Lithuanian audience with exceptional French cinema. “Ecrans d’hiver ” will screen the newest French movies – referenced by critics as the most interesting, unordinary, author ’s cinema, films by modern French film directors. Traditionally, classic French cinema will be presented on Lithuanian screens as well. www.ziemosekranai.lt
3
FEBRUARY
EXHIBITION “ADVENTUR”
SKRABALAI MUSIC FESTIVAL “WOODEN HORSE”
1–3 FEBRUARY
2 FEBRUARY
Lithuanian Exhibition Centre LITEXPO, Vilnius. International travelling, leisure and sports exhibition. The event will introduce with travels in Lithuania and foreign countries, country and culinary heritage tourism, museums, castles, Lithuanian and foreign cuisine. Meetings with famous travellers and travel guides will be held. www.litexpo.lt
Culture centre, Pakruojis. During the festival the audience is invited to listen to the Lithuanian folk percussion instrument Skrabalai music, the players improvise and create interesting accompaniment pattern. www.pakruojis.lt
MARDI GRAS 9, 12 FEBRUARY
TRADITIONAL TROTTER HORSE RACING “SARTAI 2013” 2 FEBRUARY
Vilnius, Open Air Museum of Lithuania in Rumšiškės, Trakai city centre, other cities. Carnival masks and costumes, dances, songs and games, large pancakes, various unconventional winter sporting activities, theatrical battle between Lašininis, representing winter, and Kanapinis, representing spring, and other entertainments. The festival ends with the burning of Morė, an effigy of winter. www.llbm.lt, www.trakai-visit.lt, www.vilnius-events.lt
THE OPENING OF SAMOGITIA MARDI GRAS MASKS EXHIBITION-CONTEST 11 FEBRUARY Plateliai Manor Stable. Žemaitija National Park organizes Mardi Gras mask exhibitions since 1996. As of 2000 the exhibition became a contest. www.zemaitijosnp.lt
Dusetos hippodrome, Zarasai district. Horse racing attracting thousands of visitors each year. The event is inseparable from folk-art fair, folk music concerts and winter entertainments. www.sartulenktynes.lt 4
FISHERMEN FESTIVAL “PALANGA SMELT 2013”
12 FEBRUARY
16 FEBRUARY
Žemaitija National Park, Plateliai. Samogitian Mardi Gras is inseparable from people wearing masks and carnival costumes, theatrical battle between Lašininis, representing winter, and Kanapinis, representing spring, and lots of other entertainments. www.zemaitijosnp.lt
J. Basanavičiaus St., Palanga. During the festival Palanga city lures with fresh cucumbers. Various games and competitions take place in J. Basanavičiaus Street, visitors can buy smoked and dried fish, as well as fresh smelts just brought from the sea by fishermen. www.palangatic.lt
02.2013
TRADITIONAL SAMOGITIAN MARDI GRAS
VILNIUS BOOK FAIR 21–24 FEBRUARY
DAY OF RESTORATION OF INDEPENDENCE OF LITHUANIA 16 FEBRUARY Public spaces, Lithuania. Commemoration near the House of the Signatories, concerts, bonfires. www.lithuania.travel
Lithuanian Exhibition Centre LITEXPO, Vilnius. Latest Lithuanian and foreign publishers’ books, cultural events, art exhibitions, films, concerts, lots of meetings and discussions with foreign and Lithuanian authors, poets, illustrators. www.vilniausknygumuge.lt 5
MARCH
KAZIUKAS (CASIMIR’S) FAIR 1–3 MARCH
GREGORIAN CHANT VIRTUOSOS “GREGORIAN” 10 MARCH
Old Town, City Hall square, Gedimino avenue, Vilnius. Kaziukas Fair marks the celebration of St. Casimir’s day. It’s not only a place to wonder around large and colourful fair. It is also a place to enjoy performances of professional and amateur folk ensembles, gatherings, dances and games. www.kaziukomuge.lt, www.etno.lt
“Žalgiris” arena, Kaunas. “Gregorian” is an instrumental music band with singers dressed in monk’s robes performing rock and pop songs inspired by Gregorian chants. www.zalgirioarena.lt
KAZIUKAS (CASIMIR’S) FAIR IN SIMNAS 8–10 MARCH
11 MARCH
City square, Simnas. Visitors can enjoy theatrical parade to the fair down the “Street of Fun”. The square is full of folk artists, craftsmen, pastry bakers, butchers and beekeepers. www.simnokc.lt
Public spaces in Vilnius and other cities. Ceremonial parades, processions, opening of exhibitions, open-door days in museums and concerts at nights. www.lithuania.travel
DRUMS AND PERCUSSION FESTIVAL “UKMERGĖ 2013” 8–11 MARCH Culture Centre, Ukmergė. Percussion festival with famous Lithuanian and foreign performers. The programme offers classical and contemporary music, jazz, improvisations. www.ukmergeinfo.lt 6
DAY OF RESTORATION OF INDEPENDENCE OF LITHUANIA
BALTIC JEWELLERY SHOW “AMBER TRIP” 13–16 MARCH Conference Centre of “Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva”, Vilnius. The biggest exhibition of specialized jewellery in the Baltic States. The exhibition presents the latest jewellery technologies and modern equipment. www.ambertrip.com
14–28 MARCH
SPRING EQUINOX 23 MARCH
Movie theatres and night clubs, Vilnius. The festival is the largest cinematic event in Lithuania, known and loved for its high quality film programme and rich accompanying package of cinema-related events, workshops, and special initiatives. www.kinopavasaris.lt
03.2013
VILNIUS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL “CINEMA SPRING”
Šventaragis Valley next to National Museum of Lithuania, Vilnius. In the background of improvised folk music melodies Vilnius city schoolchildren place ornaments made from candles around the trees, put into the trees “luminous birds” – the spring heralds. www.etno.lt
“FASHION INFECTION”
EASTER CELEBRATION
22–23 MARCH
31 MARCH – 1 APRIL
Contemporary Art Centre, Vilnius. The most prominent fashion and culture event in Lithuania. Hosted in Vilnius, the festival gathers together both young talents and fashion world professionals from Lithuania and abroad. www.madosinfekcija.lt
Lithuanian culture centres, Open Air Museum of Lithuania in Rumšiškės. Easter is the celebration of Christ Resurrection, the most important day of spring. Decorating and rolling eggs is an integral part of Easter. www.llbm.lt
7
APRIL
“LET’S DO IT!” APRIL Entire country. Annual public clean-up event designed to raise environmental awareness, each year attracting a number of clean nature enthusiasts. www.mesdarom.lt
UŽUPIS REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE DAY
KLAIPĖDA MUSIC SPRING FESTIVAL
1 APRIL
3 APRIL – 3 MAY
Užupis district, Vilnius. The most important celebration in Užupis Republic. Crowds of Užupis Republic citizens and friends gather in Paupio, Užupio, Malūnų and Krivių streets, and Angel’s square to celebrate the 16th anniversary of Užupis Republic. www.vilnius-events.lt
Concert Hall, Klaipėda. Expressive, impressive and colourful events of the festival invite to visit Klaipėda Concert Hall and to enjoy the timeless classical music and awakening nature. www.koncertusale.lt
EASTER MUSIC FESTIVAL “RESURREXIT” 1–7 APRIL Cathedral of St. Apostles Peter and Paul, Šiauliai. Traditional and the oldest classical music festival in Northern Lithuania. Most of the concerts take place in the Cathedral of St. Apostles Peter and Paul, one of the main accents of the city. www.resurrexit.lt 8
ELITE SHOW “CIRQUE DU SOLEIL – ALEGRIA”
8 APRIL – 2 MAY
18 APRIL
Different spaces in Vilnius. Concert series of Lithuanian musicians who work or study abroad and who often bring a foreign colleague to the festival. Lithuania-based musicians also perform at some concerts. www.lmrf.lt
“Siemens” arena, Vilnius. Canadian performance troupe returns to Vilnius with one of the most spectacular shows “Alegria”, well received by critics and audiences. www.siemens-arena.com
LITHUANIAN BRASS BAND CHAMPIONSHIP
FOLK FESTIVAL “JURGINĖS”
APRIL
26–28 APRIL
“Cido” arena, Panevėžys. Best Lithuanian children and youth brass bands compete during the championship. Guests from various European countries are regular participants of the event. www.lbba.lt
Birutė Hill, Palanga. Jurginės starts with colourful folk ensembles parade. Performers sing to the sounds of Lithuanian musical instruments. The festival culminates with a fun get-together. www.palangatic.lt
04.2013
INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL “THE RETURNS”
INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL “KAUNAS JAZZ 2013” 25–29 APRIL Kaunas concert halls. International festival well appreciated both in Lithuania and abroad. The organizers present world’s most famous jazz projects, Lithuanian jazz gigs, as well as joint jazz music and visual arts projects. www.kaunasjazz.lt
9
MAY
“LORD OF THE DANCE” 3 MAY “Žalgiris” arena, Kaunas. Outstanding performance by Irish dance troupe “Lord of the Dance”. www.zalgirioarena.lt
INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY DANCE FESTIVAL “NEW BALTIC DANCE” 6–12 MAY Concert halls and theatres, Vilnius. One of the main and most prestigious dance festivals in the Baltic Sea region introducing to the audience the latest national and international dance trends. www.dance.lt
DANCESPORT COMPETITION “AMBER COUPLE” 11–12 MAY Sports Hall, Kaunas. “Amber Couple”, traditional arts and sports event with 500 dancers’ couples. www.tautosnamai.lt 10
RESORT’S FEAST “PALANGA 2013”
17–19 MAY
17–19 MAY
Summer Stage, Kaišiadorys. Exclusive event inspired by music and student life. Join us and enjoy the getaway from the city, nature and quality music with your friends. www.gadi.lt
Public spaces, Palanga. The traditional event in Palanga that signifies the beginning of summer tourism offering various concerts, street shows, folk crafts fair, and Palanga brass band marching along the city streets. www.palangatic.lt
05.2013
MUSIC FESTIVAL “GADI”
STREET MUSIC DAY 18 MAY Various public spaces, Vilnius. Professional and amateur musicians fill the streets, parks and squares of Vilnius. They play rock, classic, jazz, avant-garde, folklore and African tunes. It is a celebration uniting everyone that speaks the universal language of music. www.gmd.lt
INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL “SPRING OF POETRY 2013” 12–26 MAY Various places, Vilnius. Annually held international poetry festival. Here the creative works are read by the Lithuanian and foreign poets with participation of actors, singers, musicians and painters. www.rasytojai.lt 11
MAY
KLAIPĖDA SHIP PARADE 18 MAY Danė River and Cruise Ships Terminal, Klaipėda. The event is organized to commemorate the international Sea Day of Europe and traditionally includes the ship parade and other events. www.laivuparadas.lt
INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “SOUNDS SOUNDS THE ZITHER” 23–26 MAY
PENTECOST 19 MAY Meironys village, Ignalina district. Entertaining celebration of Pentecost: concerts, culinary heritage dish tasting, and locals shipping their cows out to the peninsular for a summer pasture. www.ignalina.lt
MUSIC FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LITHUANIA MAY Biržai Castle, Biržai. Classical music fans are offered to see and listen to the pieces performed by talented Lithuanian singers. www.birzai.lt 12
Public spaces, Vilnius. One of the few authentic ethno music festivals in Europe introducing Lithuanian and foreign folklore. www.etno.lt
INTERNATIONAL CHORAL MUSIC FESTIVAL “ŠIAULIAI CANTAT 2013” 23–26 MAY Public spaces, Šiauliai. Choral voices fills Šiauliai city in May. Events of the festival will take place is spectacular Šiauliai city churches, concert halls and Chain Frenkel Villa Park. www.kaunascantat.lt, www.tic.siauliai.lt
24–25 MAY Contemporary Art Centre, Vilnius. Famous Lithuanian and foreign wine distributors present their wines during the fair. Wine tasting, seminars, film screenings attract a number of visitors. www.vynodienos.lt
THEATRICAL CASTLE FESTIVAL “BLOSSOM OF PANEMUNĖ” 25 MAY Raudonė Castle, Jurbarkas district. Historical theatrical villages surrounding the Castle, orchestras and folk music groups performances. Visitors can participate in theatre performances, historical photos exhibition, and historical play culminating the festival. www.panemuniuziedai.lt
05.2013
WINE FAIR “WINE DAYS”
DRUSKININKAI RESORT DAY 24–26 MAY Public spaces, Druskininkai. Citizens and guests are invited to the twoday festival with various concerts, exhibitions, shows and folk art fair. www.info.druskininkai.lt
“FAIR WIND” REGATTA 25–26 MAY The Curonian Lagoon, Baltic Sea, Klaipėda. “Fair Wind” Regatta is the first regatta to announce the sailing season. Taking place in the Baltic Sea, the event announces that the sailing season is already opened. www.gerovejo-regata.lt 13
MAY
“BUBBLE YOUR CITY” 27 MAY – 30 SEPTEMBER (EVERY SECOND MONDAY) Public spaces in various cities. The event gathers the citizens in public city spaces to blow soap bubbles both huge and small. In Vilnius it traditionally takes place in Lukiškės square. www.facebook.com/burbuliatorius
LITHUANIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL “BEN, LET’S SAIL TO NIDA” LAST WEEKEND OF MAY City centre, Nida. Festival of the most famous Lithuanian voices with completely different programme each and every year and different music style concerts. www.visitneringa.com 14
BISTRAMPOLIS FESTIVAL MAY Bistrampolis Manor, Panevėžys district. Concerts are held in the manor stud farm with two spacious concert spaces. Visitors can enjoy various classical and jazz music pieces, as well as audio, video and dance projects. www.bistrampolis.lt
THE EUROPEAN NIGHT OF MUSEUMS
MAY
MAY
Burbiškis Estate, Radviliškis district. Visitors are invited to look around the Estate buildings and the park, and to admire over 200 species of blooming tulips. Concerts and spectacular firework show ensure the festive mood. www.muziejai.lt/radviliskis/burbiskio_ dvaras.htm
Various museums, Lithuania. Traditional event inviting to visit museums expositions and participate in ever changing night programmes free of charge. www.muziejai.lt
“THE NIGHT AT MUSEUM” IN TRAKAI ISLAND CASTLE
05.2013
TULIP BLOOMING FESTIVAL IN BURBIŠKIS ESTATE
MAY Trakai Island Castle. The authentic atmosphere in Trakai Island Castle will take you back to the ancient times and culture: attentive servants rush about, jesters and fakirs show theirs tricks, while the sounds of a tournament of knights come from the courtyards. www.trakaimuziejus.lt
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CULTURE AND ECOLOGY “GREENPARKAS 2013” MAY Birštonas, Kaunas. Art programme of the festival includes socially relevant and unconventional works, innovative in form and integrating different types of art. www.grynparkas.lt
LITHUANIAN FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “PLAY LITHUANIAN” MAY Culture Centre, Birštonas. Traditional folklore festival. www.visitbirstonas.lt
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL “ORGAN SUMMER” MAY Nida Evangelical Lutheran Church, Neringa. A special place in stylistically varying “Organ Summer” is traditionally given to the oldest organ playing form – improvisations on the themes suggested by the audience. www.vargonai.lt 15
JUNE
“VILNIUS CHALLENGE” 1 JUNE Green space next to the White Bridge, Vingis Park, Vilnius. Urban adventure event/race for everyone who loves adventures, and are ready to test themselves both physically and intellectually. www.vilniuschallenge.lt
PAŽAISLIS MUSIC FESTIVAL
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“BIKE SHOW MILLENNIUM”
2 JUNE – 1 SEPTEMBER
THE BEGINNING OF JUNE
Pažaislis Monastery in Kaunas, other cities. The festival presents a rich palette of musical styles and genres and offer new experiences, remaining faithful to the established traditions. The audience is invited to listen to Lithuanian and foreign soloists, ensembles and conductors. www.pazaislis.lt
S. Darius and S. Girėnas Airport, public spaces in Kaunas. Hundreds of bikes pack Kaunas city during the festival. The event traditionally begins with impressive bike parade starting at Kaunas Castle, then going through the main city streets and finishing at Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas Airport. www.bikeshow.lt
WIND MUSIC CONCERT SERIES “SUMMER OF BRASS”
3–14 JUNE
13 JUNE – 7 SEPTEMBER
The Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society, Vilnius. One of the most prestigious musical events in Lithuania presenting classical music, performed by the eminent soloists, ensembles and symphony orchestras from Lithuania and all over the world, premiers of contemporary Lithuanian composers. www.vilniusfestival.lt
Birutė Hill, Palanga. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays citizens and guests of the resort are invited to enjoy classical, popular and original wind music concerts. www.orkestras.lt
SMITHERY AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL FIRST WEEKEND OF JUNE City centre, Mažeikiai. Festival of Lithuanian and foreign blacksmiths and representatives of other crafts. www.mkultura.lt
HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL “BIRŠTONAS CUP 2013” 6–9 JUNE Birštonas. Traditional air balloon contest to win the Birštonas Cup. www.skriskimekartu.lt
ALYTUS CITY DAYS, WORLD ARTS FESTIVAL, BONSAI AND SUISEKI EXHIBITION
06.2013
VILNIUS FESTIVAL
13–16 JUNE Culture and Communication Centre and other public spaces, Alytus. Cultural awards, folk arts fair, arts ensembles, sporting events, Bonsai and Suiseki exhibition, performances by artists from various countries. www.akkc.lt
“SAMOGITIA CAPITAL FESTIVAL 2013” 15–16 JUNE City centre, Telšiai. Conferences, exhibitions, concerts, singing and dancing events, theatrical performances, sports competitions, plays for children, art installations in unexpected spaces and other events. www.telsiai.lt
CULTURE NIGHT “LET THERE BE NIGHT!“ 18 JUNE Various places, Vilnius. Once a year various artistic events take place in Vilnius public and cultural spaces. Culture night event series allow to visit a number of different genre events in one night. www.kulturosnaktis.lt 17
JUNE
HERB MARKET 22 JUNE Gediminas ave., Vilnius. The visitors are greeted by witches and fortunetellers, herbalists and the market at the epicentre. You can listen to the concert, see theatrical sauna performance, and buy in local market currency “jonpinigis”. www.etno.lt
INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR “ARTVILNIUS” 26–30 JUNE
Lithuanian Exhibition Centre LITEXPO, Vilnius. International exhibition summoning foreign participants and most famous artists, representing Lithuanian galleries and paying special attention to young artists. www.artvilnius.com
WAR HISTORY EVENT ADAPTATION OF VILKMERGĖ BATTLE 1812–2013 29 JUNE
MIDSUMMER CELEBRATION 23–24 JUNE Vilnius Vingis Park, Verkiai Regional Park, Kernavė Cultural Reservation, Jonava Joninės Valley, and other cities. Traditional celebration of the shortest night and summer solstice held according to the oldest ethno-cultural traditions with dances and songs. The event is full of theatrical performances representing Midsummer customs and rituals: wreaths floated down the rivers, dances around bonfires, looking for the magic fern blossom. www.lithuania.travel 18
Deltuva town, Ukmergė district. Military history clubs revive the battle of Napoleon Bonaparte and Alexander I troops in 1812. The programme also includes live history lessons, introduction to everyday life of soldiers, camp visiting. www.ukmergeinfo.lt
TAURAGĖ VOCAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
JUNE–AUGUST (ON SATURDAYS)
JUNE–AUGUST
“Nida” ferry, Klaipėda. Every summer warm summer breeze, the Curonian Lagoon waves and spellbinding sounds of music invite to unforgettable musical journeys across the Curonian Lagoon. www.muzikuojantiskeltas.lt
Tauragė Castle Park. The festival is attended by Lithuanian classical music stars; ten concerts are held during the event. www.taurageskc.lt
TYTUVĖNAI SUMMER FESTIVAL
06.2013
FESTIVAL “MUSICAL FERRY”
JUNE–AUGUST Tytuvėnai, Kelmė district. Taking place in Tytuvėnai Monastery Ensemble and Kelmė Regional Museum, the festival invites to enjoy the pieces performed by Lithuanian and foreign singers. www.kelme.lt
MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL IN TRAKAI PENINSULAR CASTLE JUNE Territory of Trakai Peninsular Castle. Two days of knights’ fights, medieval music and dances, folklore concerts, theatrical performances, and educational activities for children. www.trakaimuziejus.lt
19
JULY
LITHUANIAN PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION 2013
SACRED MUSIC FESTIVAL “ORGAN SUMMER IN BIRŠTONAS”
1 JULY – 31 DECEMBER
JULY (EVERY SATURDAY)
Lithuania. Lithuania holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union, therefore some of EU events during the presidency period are to be held in Lithuania with 30 000 guests expected to attend. The Presidency of the EU Council is held by each Member State in turn for a period of six months. www.eu2013.lt
St. Anthony of Padua Church, Birštonas. Hours of sacred music filled with baroque, classic and chamber music masterpieces. www.visitbirstonas.lt
LITHUANIAN JAZZ STARS CONCERTS SERIES “GALVĖ JAZZ FIESTA” JULY–AUGUST (EVERY FRIDAY) Galvė Lake, Trakai. Calling together top Lithuanian Jazz artists and overseas guests, Trakai becomes the capital of Jazz for the entire summer. Trakai Jazz Festival is exceptional for concerts in boats. www.trakai-visit.lt
HORSE AND CARRIAGE SUMMER TOURS IN LITHUANIA 6–18 JULY Lithuanian towns and villages. Every summer a colourful horse-drawn carriage runs around Lithuania stopping in towns and villages where puppet-tale thirsty children await. www.leliuvezimoteatras.lt
MUSIC FESTIVAL “UŽUTRAKIS NIGHTS” JULY–AUGUST (EVERY SUNDAY) Užutrakis Manor, Trakai. Held in an open palace terrace overviewing the Galvė Lake and Trakai Island Castle, the festival invites to unforgettable concerts with famous national and international musicians. www.trakai-visit.lt
CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL “CURONIAN SPIT 2013” 26 JULY – 15 AUGUST Evangelic Lutheran Churches, Nida Culture Centre, Nida and Juodkrantė. The Festival introduces with the most outstanding pieces of baroque, classical and contemporary chamber music, as well as initiates the introduction of new pieces by Baltic Sea Region composers. www.visitneringa.com
20
FOLK CONTEST-FESTIVAL “THE FLOWER OF THE SUN”
1 JULY – 28 AUGUST
2–8 JULY
Various Vilnius city spaces, Šešuolėliai Manor Estate, Širvintos district. The Festival presents to the public over 50 original concert events, so everyone would find something they like. Casual environment, summer mood, original projects – this is the face of the festival. www.kristupofestivaliai.lt
Vilnius St., Šiauliai. The contest-festival offers a programme starting from traditional folk dances, instrumental music, vocal groups, solo singers, instrumentalists and ending with stylized folk groups. www.saulesziedas.su.lt
ANCIENT CRAFTS, ARCHAIC MUSIC AND HISTORICAL COMBAT RE-ENACTMENT FESTIVAL “THE GATES OF JOTVA”
07.2013
THE CHRISTOPHER SUMMER FESTIVAL
5–6 JULY Alytus mound, Alytus. Visitors are invited to join the craftsmen at their stalls, try traditional and medieval dances, and participate in battles and archaic games. www.alytus-tourism.lt
ART FESTIVAL “DRUSKININKAI SUMMER WITH M. K. ČIURLIONIS” 1 JULY – 22 SEPTEMBER
BLUES FESTIVAL “BLUES NIGHTS” 5–6 JULY
Concert halls and public spaces, Druskininkai. Sacred music of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis and his contemporaries is played every Sunday evening. The fans are invited to 50 events with over 200 performers from Lithuania and abroad. www.info.druskininkai.lt
Lūkštas Lake, Varniai. Blues sounds, traditional firework show, “bluessoup”, entertaining and educational events for people of all age groups and interests. www.bliuzonaktys.lt 21
JULY
FESTIVAL “OPERETTA AT KAUNAS CASTLE” 5–7 JULY
THE FESTIVAL OF ARTS “THE ECHO OF THE CASTLE” 13–27 JULY
Kaunas Castle, Kaunas. Original and the first operetta festival in Eastern Europe gathers together excellent soloists and introduces the audience with various European classic music. www.operetta.lt
Panemunė Castle, Jurbarkas region. During the festival different art types and styles are combined, modern creative ideas with live and original sound are presented. www.piliesaidas.lt
ŽAGARĖ CHERRY FESTIVAL 8–21 JULY
STATE DAY OF LITHUANIA (CORONATION OF KING MINDAUGAS) 6 JULY Entire country. Historical date traditionally celebrated all over Lithuania: the capital and other towns and villages hold both official ceremonies and massive celebratory concerts. www.lithuania.travel
Žagarė Manor Park and other spaces, Žagarė. Žagarė Cherry Festival is an event that presents the synthesis of music, sports, culture and traditions, with rich and lively cherry market at its epicentre. www.vysniufestivalis.lt
COMMEMORATION OF THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF LITUANICA FLIGHT OVER THE ATLANTIC OCEAN 20 JULY
THOMAS MANN FESTIVAL 13–20 JULY Evangelic Lutheran Church and public spaces, Nida. Exclusive music, inspiring discussions and entertaining cinema nights attract to the Festival not only the Lithuanian audience but also guests from the overseas countries. www.mann.lt 22
Pilot Steponas Darius Memorial Museum, Darius village, Klaipėda region. Lituanica is an experimental plane, piloted by two Lithuanians Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas, which took off from Floyd Bennet Memorial Airport in New York on 15 July 1933. The year of 2013 mark the 80th anniversary of their flight over the Atlantic Ocean. A celebration with performances of art groups, sporting games and aviation feast are organised to commemorate the flight. mrastikis@gmail.com
18–20 JULY Palanga–Kretinga–Klaipėda road intersection. Omnitel car race is the biggest motorsports event in the Baltic region. Apart from traditional events (historical car racing, Fast Lap racing, Drag racing and other) the organisers promise a variety of novelties. www.racing.lt
FOLKLORE FESTIVAL “I GREW UP IN LITHUANIA” 20 JULY
07.2013
OMNITEL 1000 KM CAR RACE
CHAIM FRENKEL VILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL JULY–SEPTEMBER Chaim Frenkel Villa, Šiauliai. Old and contemporary classical music festival takes place in Chaim Frenkel Villa and its park which is famous for its perfect acoustics. www.ausrosmuziejus.lt
FILM FESTIVAL “WHITE BARN” Dovilai Ethnic Culture Centre, Klaipėda region. The event brings a unique edge to the ethnic, historical and linguistic heritage of the region. Anticipated theme of the event in 2013 is the importance of Lithuanian language dialects as individuality and exclusivity feature. www.etnodovilai.lt
26 JULY Irena and Algis Alenskai homestead, Marijampolė region. Annual short film festival open to everyone interested. suvalkija.info@gmail.com 23
JULY
SEA FESTIVAL 26–28 JULY
MUSIC FESTIVAL “YAGA“ 25–29 JULY Spengla, Ežeraitis forest, Varėna region. Invites to experience community life, consumerism-free environment, exclusive decorations, best reggae, dub and electronic music artists, wellness promotion. www.yaga.lt
Public spaces, Klaipėda. Since the Sea Festival is the largest summer fiesta in Lithuania, it attracts up to half a million visitors and offers more than 100 different events, such as ceremonies, processions, exhibitions, concerts, street festivals, markets and other. www.jurossvente.lt
THE 600TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAMOGITIA BAPTISM 29 JULY Telšiai St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral, Varniai St. Alexander Church. The baptism of Samogitia, the last pagan land of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, started in 1413, while Samogitian Diocese was established on 23 October 1417. Therefore, the year of 2013 mark the anniversary of the grand Samogitian baptism. www.telsiaitic.lt 24
MUSIC FESTIVAL “TUNDRA“ JULY Zarasai region. One of the largest electronic music festivals in Lithuania and Baltic countries is known for its close connection to nature. Taking place in a peninsular the festival offers a wealth of music genres from drum’n’bass to psy-trance. www.tundrafestival.lt
LAST WEEKEND OF JULY
JULY
Nida seaport. The festival in Neringa (the Curonian Spit) brings more life into elite jazz life, and gives an opportunity to see and hear six to eight Lithuanian and foreign jazz projects. www.nidajazz.lt
07.2013
JAZZ FESTIVAL “NIDA JAZZ MARATHON”
MUSIC FESTIVAL “MONSIEUR MUSIC”
Varėna region. A number of bands and singers will guarantee a variety of different music styles and good time for all the lovers of live music. Since there are plenty of activities for everyone, the participants can bring their families, friends and even dogs. www.tamstamuzika.lt
“MUSICAL AUGUST AT THE SEASIDE” JULY–AUGUST Different places in Klaipėda, Kretinga, Palanga, Neringa and Juodkrantė. The major part of the programme consists of the premieres and concert projects of Klaipėda Music Theatre, the organiser of the festival. Other participants include Lithuanian and foreign symphony and chamber orchestras, ensembles, quintets, soloists and conductors. www.muzikinis-teatras.lt
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AUGUST
761ST ANNIVERSARY OF KLAIPĖDA CITY
SACRED MUSIC FESTIVAL “AVE MARIA“
1 AUGUST
3–17 AUGUST
City center, Klaipėda. The anniversary of Klaipėda City is celebrated annually and best known for traditional music and dance ensembles’ performances and interesting compositions. www.klaipedainfo.lt
Amber Museum, St. Blessed Virgin Mary of the Assumption Church, Palanga. Concerts of the festival create respect for history and secrets of faith. The listeners have opportunity to hear the recognized artists perform. www.palangatic.lt
MUSIC FESTIVAL “GALAPAGOS“ 2–3 AUGUST
ARTS FESTIVAL “THE MONTMARTRE REPUBLIC OF ŠIAULIAI” 7–11 AUGUST “Laiptų galerija” Culture Centre, Šiauliai. International plenary-workshop is attracting famous Lithuanian and foreign artists. Works created during the plenary are exhibited in Peliksas Bugailiškis garden. www.laiptai.com
Zarasas Lake Island, Zarasai. The festival is exceptional for its deep-rooted traditions and the best-known Lithuanian festival stars that gather here. Taking place in astonishing wild nature, the festival has four different music style stages and over 30 entertainment and social initiatives spaces placed across the entire festival territory. www.galapagai.lt 26
9–10 AUGUST
MUSIC FESTIVAL “SATTA OUTSIDE“ MID-AUGUST Šventoji beach. “Satta Outside” is a platform open to everyone who wishes to present their idea to the public and believes it doesn’t interfere with really broad definitions of alternative music and city art. Festival programme includes movie marathon, street dance lessons in water and bunch of other events. www.sattaoutside.lt
08.2013
KĖDAINIAI CITY FESTIVAL
City centre, Kėdainiai. Annually celebrated city festival with arts and fair, concerts and various events for children all around the city. www.visitkedainiai.lt
“CLAY FESTIVAL” 15 AUGUST Viekšniai, Mažeikiai region. Pottery class-seminar is organised two weeks before the festival. Clay works created during the seminar are presented on the festival day. www.mazeikiai.lt
COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL “VISAGINO COUNTRY” 16–17 AUGUST City stadium, Visaginas. World-famous country music artists, colourful events, improvisation nights, various entertainments for children and adults. www.visaginocountry.lt
FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION 15 AUGUST Open Air Museum of Lithuania, Rumšiškės. Consecration of flowers and herbs, introduction to herb healing properties, folklore concerts, songs, dances and games. www.llbm.lt 27
AUGUST
OLD CRAFT DAYS IN NERINGA
BARTHOLOMEW FAIR
16–17 AUGUST
23–24 AUGUST
Harbour area and Fisherman’s Ethnographic Homestead, Nida. The participants dressed in archaic clothes revive and demonstrate old-time crafts, resurrect the traditions of old-time fishing and preparation of the fish caught in the littoral region. www.visitneringa.com
Vilnius City Hall square. Historical fair to revive Renaissance crafts, arts and guild traditions, and to restore the culture and spirit of Vilnius city craftsmen guild. www.amatugildija.lt
LIVE SONG FESTIVAL “I AM UNIQUE” 17 AUGUST Germantas Lake Shore, Telšiai. Artists to the stage are carried by boats, while audience is invited to come by bikes and bring baskets of favourite snacks and have a picknick while listening to the sounds of music. www.telsiaitic.lt
PALŪŠĖ REGATTA AUGUST Palūšė village, Ignalina region. Regatta is open for everyone who loves spending time in nature, swimming and recreation, who is enthusiastic and ready to swim across lakes and to enjoy the reviving entertainments offered in Palūšė. www.ignalinatic.lt 28
FESTIVAL “VALLEY OF WINDS” AUGUST Trakai district municipality, Rimgaudinė valley. Ecology and alternative life style festival. Lectures, seminars, workshops, musical improvisations, closeness with nature and affinity among people are ways to reach the harmony of mind, body and soul. www.vejuslenis.lt
30 AUGUST – 28 SEPTEMBER Samogitian Art Museum, Plungė. The festival of professionally performed sacred classical music. The programme is complemented with exhibitions and scientific conferences organized by museum curators. www.oginski.lt
“DAYS OF ANCIENT CRAFTS” IN TRAKAI ISLAND CASTLE AUGUST Island Castle, Trakai. During the festival, craftsmen, nurturing medieval craft traditions, demonstrate their creativity and reveal the secrets of old craftsmen. www.trakaimuziejus.lt
08.2013
MYKOLAS OGINSKIS FESTIVAL
SOLDIERSHIP AND CRAFTSMANSHIP FESTIVAL OF THE ANCIENT TRIBES OF THE BALTIC SEA REGION “APUOLĖ 854” AUGUST Apuolė mound, Skuodas region. The festival introduces with 9th –13th century crafts: armoury, textile, leather tanning, goldsmithery, musical instrument making, old pasture and medicine. The event presents the mode of life, clothing, armour and fitting techniques, food and celebrations, games and folk art of those times. www.skouds.lt
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SEPTEMBER
PHOTO ART FESTIVAL “KAUNAS PHOTO”
510TH ANNIVERSARY OF PANEVĖŽYS CITY
SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER
6–8 SEPTEMBER
Art galleries, Kaunas. Festival programme includes dozens of exhibitions, projections, film previews and lectures. Formal and informal meetings make the festival and important gathering place for the global community of photography. www.kaunasphoto.info
Laisvė square, Panevėžys. The largest celebration in the city: concerts, exhibitions, traditional feast of art ensembles, entertainment events, folk art and old crafts fair. www.panevezysinfo.lt
SHORT FILM FESTIVAL “VILNIUS FILM SHORTS” 5–8 SEPTEMBER
OLD CULTURE FESTIVAL FOR THE CORONATION OF VYTAUTAS THE GREAT 6–8 SEPTEMBER
Movie theatres, Vilnius. Film festival introducing new short movies from all over the world. www.filmshorts.lt
CAPITAL DAYS 6–8 SEPTEMBER Public spaces, Vilnius. The largest cultural festival of Vilnius city taking place in public city spaces and dedicated to all the residents and guests of the city. Around 1000 performers – best Lithuanian artists and famous European and world music ensembles participate in festival events each year. www.vilnius-tourism.lt
Veliuona, Jurbarkas region. The event is dedicated to actualization of historical and cultural heritage of castles and manors. The festival has medieval feast features; the programme includes performances by puppet theatres and historic dance ensembles. www.jurbarkotic.lt
“NATIONS’ FAIR” SEPTEMBER Gedimino ave., Vilnius. The fair gathers together the most inventive craftsmen, folk artists, masters of culinary heritage, virtuosos of dance and song. www.tautumuge.lt 30
AUTUMN EQUINOX
7 SEPTEMBER
21 SEPTEMBER
Pabaiskas, Ukmergės region. In 1435, a battle took place in Pabaiskas between the troops of the Grand Lithuanian Dukes Žygimantas Kęstutaitis and Švitrigaila. To commemorate the battle, a festival is organised in Pabaiskas town – military history clubs simulate episodes of the battle, explains its meaning. www.ukmergeinfo.lt
Neris River and river bank near King Mindaugas bridge, Vilnius. Baltic signs made of small candles and illuminated sculptures floating along Neris River, and the specially composed music uniting the entire event. www.etno.lt
09.2013
COMMEMORATION FOR THE BATTLE OF PABAISKAS
“PALANGA TABLE 2013” 28 SEPTEMBER Basanavičius St., Jūratė and Kąstytis square, Palanga. During the event visitors are invited to taste various dishes, play chess, checkers, participate in fish frying championship, try craft subtleties. www.palangatic.lt
EXHIBITION “BALTIC TEXTILE AND LEATHER” 19–21 SEPTEMBER Lithuanian Exhibition Centre LITEXPO, Vilnius. Textile and clothing exhibition: textile and interior, fashion and style, leather and footwear, innovations, services, equipment and technologies. Fashion shows, seminars, and conferences. www.litexpo.lt 31
SEPTEMBER
VILNIUS INTERNATIONAL THEATRE FESTIVAL “SIRENS”
CELEBRATION OF UTENA CITY BIRTHDAY
26 SEPTEMBER – 12 OCTOBER
28 SEPTEMBER
Vilnius city theatres. Introduces the challenging and responsive to ever-changing reality contemporary European and world theatre. www.sirenos.lt
Public spaces, Utena. The entire city fills up with concerts, fairs, exhibitions, games, performances and sporting activities. Celebrate Utena citizens and a large number of city guests. www.utenainfo.lt
RESEARCHERS‘ NIGHT 27 SEPTEMBER Vilnius, Kaunas, Šiauliai, Panevėžys, Molėtai . Researchers’ Night is the marathon of scientific events when dozens of higher school faculties and labs open their doors to demonstrate the visitors often the unknown secrets and discoveries of the world of science. www.tyrejunaktis.lt
PUPPET THEATRE FESTIVAL “PORTMANTEAU” SEPTEMBER Puppet Wagon Theatre, Panevėžys. The festival uses an attractive and clear form to present the audience with the heritage and contemporary performances of Lithuanian, European and world puppet theatre. www.leliuvezimoteatras.lt
KAUNAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 28 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER Movie theatres, Kaunas and other cities. The festival presents worldwide acclaimed films, while looking for new discoveries. Priority is given to films with a combination of artistic and social statements. www.kinofestivalis.lt
CONTEMPORARY ART FESTIVAL “PLATFORMA” SEPTEMBER Public spaces, Klaipėda. The festival programme includes the performances of Lithuanian and foreign contemporary theatre and modern dance artists and painters, notable for combining different genres, forms and ideas. www.zuviesakis.lt 32
SEPTEMBER VarÄ—na city park and Marcinkonys. Traditional festival with mushroom picking championship, folk-art fair, craft and culinary heritage demonstration, folk and pop music concerts, various events for adults and children. www.varena.lt
09.2013
MUSHROOM FESTIVAL
VILNIUS MARATHON SEPTEMBER Old Town, Vilnius. The event promotes healthy lifestyle, unites professional runners and enthusiasts. It is an excellent opportunity to gain unforgettable experiences, and test yourself. www.vilniausmaratonas.lt
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OCTOBER
LITERARY FESTIVAL “DRUSKININKAI POETIC FALL”
CHILDREN AND YOUTH THEATRE FESTIVAL “BILDUČIAI”
2–7 OCTOBER
OCTOBER
Druskininkai, Vilnius. Attended by a number of literature lovers, the festival introduces with latest poetry books and invites to participate in various contests and readings. www.info.druskininkai.lt
Sports and Culture Centre, Ignalina. Theatres from Lithuania and neighbouring countries bring their shows to Ignalina. www.ignalina.lt
JAZZ FESTIVAL “VILNIUS JAZZ” 10–13 OCTOBER Public spaces, Vilnius. The only Lithuanian event the programme of which is dedicated to various contemporary jazz styles. Vilnius Jazz is characteristic for its certain radicalism and clear focus on innovations. www.vilniusjazz.lt
ENDURO RALLY “PABRADĖ 2013” 5 OCTOBER Pabradė polygon. The biggest off-road motorcycle race in Lithuania. www.endurolithuania.com
INTERNATIONAL SINGERSSONGWRITERS FESTIVAL “THIS IS ME” THIRD WEEK OF OCTOBER Various Lithuanian cities. The programme of the festival includes the most famous Lithuanian bards and young performers of the genre, as well as guests from various countries. The festival also offers excellence workshops for beginning bards. www.bardai.lt 34
17–24 OCTOBER Movie theatres, Vilnius and other Lithuanian cities. A space for free thought, and open discussions about what is really important. The latest documentaries are shown during the festival. www.nepatoguskinas.lt
INTERNATIONAL THEATRE FESTIVAL “INTERRAMPA-2013” 18–20 OCTOBER Culture Centre, Rokiškis. The event is aimed to introduce with theatrical culture of different countries. To date guests from Georgia, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, France, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, Russia, Latvia, Estonia and other countries have performed at the festival. www.rokiskiotic.lt
10.2013
“AD HOC: INCONVENIENT FILMS”
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FESTIVAL “GAIDA” 18–27 OCTOBER
INTERNATIONAL ANIMATED FILM FESTIVAL “TINDIRINDIS” OCTOBER Movie theatres in Vilnius, Kaunas, Šiauliai, Klaipėda. The festival organizes animation masters’ retrospectives, workshops for children, meetings with Lithuanian actors, animated films sound recording professionals. European and world authors and producers of animated films are always present at the international festival. www.tindirindis.lt
AUTUMN GOODS FAIR “SKOUDA BOUŽĖS JUOMARKS” OCTOBER Market square, Skuodas. Guests will enjoy folk music, jokes, sporting games and excellent food. www.skouds.lt
Concert halls, Vilnius. The festival introduces the most relevant creative processes and the latest music trends. World’s most famous artists are invited, innovative music theatre performances and multimedia projects are presented. www.vilniusfestivals.lt 35
NOVEMBER 36
STASYS ŠIMKUS CHOIR COMPETITION
MARTYNAS FESTIVAL
11–24 NOVEMBER
11 NOVEMBER
Concert halls and other places, Klaipėda, other cities. Concerts, meetings, performances by best Klaipėda choral ensembles, roundtable discussions for conductors. www.klaipedainfo.lt
Klaipėda City Municipality Ethno culture Centre. Annually held festival with kids markets, roasted goose, kids and youth folk ensembles teaching cheerful songs, dances and games. www.klaipedainfo.lt
EUROPEAN FILM FORUM “SCANORAMA” 14–24 NOVEMBER Movie theatres in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, Šiauliai. The programme is dedicated to the audience with different social experience and age. “Scanorama” is not solely about films, it has a mission to spread European cinema among Lithuanian movie theatres and television. www.scanorama.lt
13–17 NOVEMBER
BIRTHDAY OF THE NERINGA CITY NOVEMBER Culture and education institutions, Neringa. Traditional event cycle combining cultural, sport and recreational activities. The highlight of the event – joint Neringa art groups concert, notable for multiple artistic self-expression of Neringa citizens. www.visitneringa.com
Russian Drama Theatre, night clubs, arenas, Vilnius. The festival is open to all styles and trends of contemporary jazz. The festival stands out for its music quality, is original and appealing to a wider public. www.vilniusmamajazz.lt
DANCE SPORT COMPETITION “AUTUMN IN BIRŠTONAS”
11.2013
JAZZ FESTIVAL “VILNIUS MAMA JAZZ”
MODERN ART FESTIVAL “VIRUS’18“ NOVEMBER Art Gallery, public spaces, Šiauliai. The festival introduces with various art types and forms in city spaces. This wide and diversified programme is mainly characterised with professionalism, modernity and actuality. www.siauliugalerija.lt
NOVEMBER
Culture Centre, Birštonas. Joyful, colourful and live event – dance sport competition of the entire Lithuania. www.visitbirstonas.lt 37
DECEMBER
“CHRISTOPHER CHRISTMAS” 1–31 DECEMBER St. Catherine’s Church, Vilnius, Šešuolėliai Manor Estate, Širvintos district. “Christopher Christmas” brings joy and invites to listen to well-known and most favourite melodies from famous musicals, chamber music and jazz improvisations. www.kristupofestivaliai.lt
CHRISTMAS IN DRUSKININKAI
38
FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC “SALVE MUSICA”
DECEMBER
DECEMBER
Public spaces, Druskininkai. Different genres and different activities are brought together to allow people to enjoy their leisure time more effectively. At the beginning, there will be the ceremony of setting up the Christmas tree. After the ceremony, concerts, exhibitions, promotions, festivals, parties, and cinema evenings will be organised. The cycle ends with spectacular New Year’s night fireworks. www.info.druskininkai.lt
Concert Hall, Klaipėda. The festival is dedicated to Christmas. The programme consists of famous pieces of popular classics, diverse entertaining and popular projects that emphasize the mood of the seasonal spirit. www.koncertusale.lt
1 DECEMBER – 6 JANUARY City centre and Old Town, Vilnius. Christmas tree lightning, Santa Claus parade, concerts in Vilnius city churches, various events in Užupis neighbourhood, charity events. Theatrical New Year celebration is held on 31st December. www.vilnius-tourism.lt
TRAKAI – THE CAPITAL OF SANTA CLAUSES DECEMBER Observation deck in front of the Trakai Island Castle. The razzle-dazzle of the Santa Clauses Capital usurps Trakai on weekends and public holidays from mid-December to the Epiphany. Santa Clauses from all around the world show up in front of Trakai Island Castle. They share their national Christmas celebration traditions with Lithuanian Santa Claus, children, parents and grandparents! www.trakai-visit.lt
12.2013
CHRISTMAS IN VILNIUS
EXHIBITIONS: COUNTRY OF CHILDREN, SCHOOL, YOUR HOME, FEAST, WINTER BOUQUET 6–8 DECEMBER Lithuanian Exhibition Centre LITEXPO, Vilnius. Exhibitions for the whole family: things for babies and expectant mothers, clothes, furniture, school supplies for pupils, teachers and schools, gifts and original ideas, Christmas decorations, traditional Christmas Eve and Christmas meals. Workshops, seminars, meetings with professionals. www.litexpo.lt
CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION “THE YEAR” DECEMBER Pasvalys Regional Museum. The largest and most anticipated exhibition of Pasvalys citizens with handmade goods fair. www.pasvaliomuziejus.lt
NATIONAL CHRISTMAS CRIBS EXHIBITION DECEMBER 2012 – JANUARY 2012 Rokiškis Manor. Annual unique national Christmas cribs exhibition organized in Rokiškis Regional Museum since 1998. www.muziejusrokiskyje.lt 39
DECEMBER
INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS CHARITY FAIR
NEW YEAR IN NERINGA AND FISH SOUP TASTING
DECEMBER
31 DECEMBER
City Hall, Vilnius. For only one day, an international Christmas town is established in Vilnius City Hall, where more than 30 countries will present the traditions of their own countries. During the fair, visitors will taste dainties, prepared according to traditional recipes from around the world. They will find beautiful souvenirs which came directly to the fair. Visitors will be able to purchase handmade jewellery and accessories for the home. Funds are collected for charity. www.vilniausrotuse.lt
Public spaces in Neringa. An integral part of New Year ‘s Eve has become an evening concert which pleases the gathered with subtle melodies, the word improvisations and romantic atmosphere. At midnight all are invited to join the linear dancers and to taste fish soup in the centre of Nida on January 1st. www.visitneringa.lt
NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION 31 DECEMBER Vilnius and other Lithuanian cities. Everyone determined to go outside will meet the New Year with popular artists and joyful festival participants. www.lithuania.travel
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Useful references Official name: The Republic of Lithuania. Area: 65 300 km2. Population: 2, 988 million (in 2012). Capital: Vilnius. Population: 523 050 (in 2012). Largest cities: Kaunas (population: 311 148), Klaipėda (population: 160 361), Šiauliai (population: 107 875), Panevėžys (population: 98 612) (in 2012). Official language: Lithuanian (the Baltic languages group). The majority of citizens also speak Russian, English. Information number: +370 700 55 118. Emergency number: 112 or 911 Order a taxi: online www.etaksi.lt (only in the largest cities of Lithuania). Order a taxi by phone: Vilnius: “Ekipažas” – +370 600 07 755, “Martono taksi” – +370 5 210 1510, “Merseros taksi” – +370 687 11 422, “M-taksi/Viptak” – +370 5 240 0004, “Romerta” – +370 5 275 7575. Kaunas: “Miesto taksi” – +370 373 38 888, “Milrasa ir Ko” – +370 377 77 333, “Taxi Kaunas” – +370 372 02 020, “Žaibiškas greitis” – +370 670 33 333, “Eurotaksi paslaugos” – +370 373 33 334.
www.vilnius-tourism.lt www.vilnius-events.lt www.visit.kaunas.lt www.panevezysinfo.lt http://tic.siauliai.lt www.bilietai.lt www.eb.lt www.tiketa.lt www.opera.lt www.bilietupasaulis.lt www.ticketpro.lt www.ticketmarket.lt www.vilnius-airport.lt www.kaunas-airport.lt www.siauliai-airport.com www.palanga-airport.lt
Lithuanian State Department of Tourism under The Ministry of Economy Gedimino pr. 38, LT-01104 Vilnius, Lithuania Tel.: + 370 706 64 976, fax: +370 706 64 988, e-mail: vtd@tourism.lt www.tourism.lt
www.Lithuania.travel Pictures by V. Balkūnas, L. Ciūnys, I. Gelūnas, R. Danisevičius, T. Urbelionis, A. Barzdžius, A. Aleksandravičius, A. Greizis, E. Levin, A. Jucius, A. Lukoševičius, A. Ridikaitė, A. Šuminskis, D. Butėnaitė, E. Darulis, D. Grikšaitė, D. Petrulaitis, D. Stankevičius, E. Orlovienė, E. Skiparis, E. Volgin, G. Stugas, I. Jurkynas, J. Kleizienė, J. Narkūnas, J. Vanagė, K. Aponavičiūtė, K. Barišauskas, K. Kagio, K. Narkevič, G. Bartuška, L. Bockus, L. Brundza, L. Šalna, M. Kavaliauskas, M. Raskovskij, P. Albertavičius, P. Baranovas, P. Lileikis, P. Pienauskas, R. Daskevičius, R. Jurgaitis, R. Mockus, R. Šematovič, S. Kondratas, S. Nemeikaitė, S. Garšvaitė, V. Braziūnas, V. Gaudiešius, V. Kandrotas, Delfi photo archive. Published by PLC “VIP Viešosios informacijos partneriai“ Printed by LC KOPA Not for sale.
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