Good Mood Travel Magazine. Summer 2015

Ma azine Travel Tips & Recommendations ̶ Lithuania by locals

Joninės: Christmas miracles in Summer Leisure tips: Skydiving in Klaipėda

Outlook: The Lithuanian Coast Žvėrynas - The Coolest Postcode in town

Su mmer 2015

Your Local Advisors in Lithuania: Milda Mizarienė

Agnė Šileikytė

Emilija Veprinceva

Vidūnas Kulikauskis

Gina Kubiliūtė

Peter Walsh

Gabija Lunevičiūtė

Evaldas Činga

Tim Ochser

Miglė Šaltytė

Urtė Sirvydienė

Editor

Journalist

English language editor

Photographer

Journalist

Translator

Photographer

Journalist, guide

Photographer

Journalist

Designer

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions:

www.goodmoodtravel.lt +370 687 25966 * milda@goodmoodtravel.lt Publisher: UAB Atostogos LT ISSN 2351-745X

2

Good Mood Travel Magazine

* reklama@goodmoodtravel.lt

Editor’s Word Dear future guests, Huge numbers of people come to visit Lithuania in the summer. And huge numbers of Lithuanians do not want to be anywhere else during this short but incredibly beautiful season. It is a time full of natural wonders. Foreign guests can only marvel at the rich nature, pristine beaches, wealth of outdoor cafes and restaurants, long evenings spent sitting in gardens, lovingly tended homesteads, hammocks, cold beat soup. Summer in Lithuania, above all, means relaxed people. And it is people that I want to talk about – about the local people, who never fail to pleasantly surprise.

Because more than the amazing nature or historical heritage, the candor and openness of the locals always pleasantly surprises our guests. I hear such things every time I say farewell to my own guests – they always highlight the spirituality, hospitality, helpfulness and friendliness of the local people. I have heard these words so many times now that I am starting to think they are our defining characteristics.

Why else would so many of them want to return to Lithuania?

Here is another pleasant surprise. I still cannot believe that Good Mood Travel Magazine has attracted so many kind and helpful followers. Only four of us worked on the first issue of the magazine. Now, for the second issue, we have a dozen people working on it. Many of these are enthusiastic volunteers who simply like what we are about. Many have given us some great ideas. Like myself, they want to show you another Lithuania from that of your standard tourist guide. This helps motivate us and shows us that we are going in the right direction.

Thanks to support and encouragement of our readers and tourism sector representatives, our magazine has grown far more quickly than we could ever have anticipated. We created it as a personalized guide for friends and guests. It is now read by over 3,000 readers worldwide (and counting) and is distributed by the State Department of Tourism, Lithuania’s Hotel and Restaurant Association, Tourism Information Centers etc.

On that positive note, welcome to our summer issue. We take a close look at the stunning Lithuanian coast, with special focus on the Curonian Spit. We take you on a tour of the beautiful neighbourhood of Žvėrynas in Vilnius and the adjacent Vingis Park. We tell you everything you need to know about Joninės (Lithuania’s most important summer celebration).

Our guide Gabija introduces to Lithuania’s premier dandelion winemaker (a fascinating man) and from now you also will know everything about the unique tree cake, Lithuanian šakotis. You will also find a comprehensive guide to summer events (there is an awful lot of them in summertime in Lithuania!). And we recommend a wide range of wonderful places for you to enjoy the long summer evenings.

Dear friends, it is with great pleasure that we invite you to Lithuania!

Your local Lithuanian friend

Milda Good Mood Travel Magazine

3

Inside the Magazine

OUTLOOK: The Lithuanian Coast

8

GET IN A GOOD MOOD: Joninės

32

TRAVEL FOCUS: Žvėrynas — The Coolest Postcode in town

22 4

Good Mood Travel Magazine

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS & Best-loved Places

38

Meet the Locals!

The winemaker who bottles spring

46

Leisure tips: Skydiving in KlaipÄ—da

58

Been there, Done that!

62

Gifts & Souvenirs: Our Recommendations

50

Event Calendar.

Summer

66

Good Mood Travel Magazine

5

6

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Shutterstock.com

To quote a German writer and Nobel Laureate Thomas Mann, who spent the summers of 1930-1932 in Nida, „visiting the Curonian Spit is a must, the same as seeing Italy or Spain."

Good Mood Travel Magazine

7

Outlook

Sun, dunes, historical heritage and breathtaking nature The liThuanian coasT – The besT Places To visiT This suMMer

By Gina Kubiliūtė

Where to go in Lithuania during the summer season? every Lithuanian will tell you: go to the seaside. The Lithuanian coast is an ideal place to visit with family or friends. neringa is a world heritage site and a natural and cultural jewel; Juodkrantė is a tranquil, former German luxury resort; Klaipėda is the only port in Lithuania and boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural life. sun, dunes, historical heritage and breathtaking nature – all these things can be found along the Lithuanian coastline. not to mention palanga (the summer capital of Lithuania, with its pristine beaches and pulsating nightlife), which we will leave for the autumn issue. it’s a beautiful resort but it is a little overcrowded in summer – that’s why we prefer going there in the spring or autumn. »»»

8

Good mood Travel magazine

Shutterstock.com

Good Mood Travel Magazine

9

Shutterstock.com

10

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Photo by A.Šileikytė

Neringa The stunning resort of Neringa is located on the Curonian Spit, which is a narrow peninsula separating the Baltic Sea and Curonian Lagoon. The resort stretches along for roughly 50 kilometres and connects the small resort towns of Juodkrantė, Preila, Pervalka and Nida.

Neringa has been famous for 150 years as a summer resort. Local people consider it an outdoor spa thanks to its healthy climate and use it for all sorts of treatments ranging from heliotherapy (sun treatment) to thalassotherapy (sea treatment) to sand therapies.

Every summer large numbers of holidaymakers from all over the world visit Neringa. The Nobel Prize winner Thomas Mann built a summer house in Nida and spent the summers of 1930 and 1931 there. His house is now a memorial museum which beautifully captures the spirit of those times.

Neringa is especially famous for the beautiful dunes that give the area its unique and otherworldly beauty. It is believed that 14 villages were buried by sand and

now lay beneath the ever-shifting dunes.

“Whoever comes to Neringa will undoubtedly say that this picturesque and stunning resort is the most beautiful place in the whole Baltic region,” says local Sandra Vaišvilaitė.

In 2000, the Curonian Spit was included on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The only way to reach Neringa is by ferry, which makes it feel secluded and special. The entire Neringa is part of Kuršių Nerija National Park. In 2000, the Curonian Spit was included on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

“People who are looking for a healthy, active and cultural way of life come to Neringa. This place can help you recover from the exhausting everyday routine and noise of the city,” says Sandra.

The place abounds in beautiful

architecture, long stretches of sandy beaches surrounded by towering dunes and sweet-smelling pine forests.

Neringa is also famous for its unique fishermen's homesteads, the Hill of witches (a park of wooden sculptures), Museum of Miniature Arts and Old Nida Cemetery, where visitors can see ancient wooden grave markers called krikštai.

Everyone who comes to Neringa also visits Parnidis Dune.

Neringa’s beaches are internationally recognized. They were awarded a blue flag (both in Nida and Juodkrantė), meaning that the beaches meet high standards of environmental protection.

The most popular activities in Neringa are cycling and tours to the Curonian lagoon. The spit is just short enough that you can take in most, if not all of it, by bicycle. There is a bike path that enables you to reach many places of interest and which traverses the entire length of Neringa.

Kite surfing, windsurfing and canoeing are also popular in summer, while ice-blokart is a major attraction in winter time. »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

11

Photos by A.Ĺ ileikytÄ—

Various other beach sports are available, as well as fishing and bird-watching (6 observation towers where built last year).

Individual hiking tours are organized by the Curonian Spit National Park administration for walking enthusiasts.

Active tourists can test their skills with orienteering routes designed for both hikers and cyclists, as well as using Nordic walking routes. Tennis tournaments are also held in Neringa.

Sandra explains that a lot has been done in the region to promote water tourism. Every year more and more yachts dock at the port of Nida. From this summer you can rent an audio guide from the Nida Culture and Tourism Information

12

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Photo by A.Šileikytė

Center (for tours in Nida).

“The ancient inhabitants of the Spit were all fishermen, so the main food was fish. These days the most popular dish in Neringa is still smoked fish. You can taste smoked eel, bream, perch and even smelt in all the local cafes and restaurants or else buy it from the many smoked fish vendors up and down the spit,” says Sandra.

Neringa also hosts a variety of different cultural events, festivals (jazz, folk, pop), outdoor art events, exhibitions and sports events. The area attracts the cultural cream of the crop, further enhancing its reputation as a top-quality resort.

Nida can also accommodate travellers with campers. »»»

Must-see places in Neringa: Amber Solar

Gallery-Museum, Nida

Clock-Calendar, Nida

Wooden Amber

Sculptures Exposition at the Hill of Witches, Juodkrantė

Gulf, Juodkrantė

Ethnographic

Cemetery and Christenings, Nida

Ethnographic

Cemetery, Preila

Stone

Sculpture Park at the Quay, Juodkrantė

Parnidis

dune, Nida

Fisherman‘s Memorial

Museum of Thomas Mann, Nida

Cormorant The

Ethnographic Homestead, Nida

and Heron Rookery, Nida

Dead Dunes, near Pervalka

Good Mood Travel Magazine

13

©vidunofoto.lt

KlaipĖda “Every visitor to the Lithuanian coast has to see Klaipėda,” says lifelong resident Martynas Pocius.

“Klaipėda is not a resort but it is very much a seaside city. We have a special atmosphere in summer. Our old town is not huge but there is still a lot to see and do. Klaipėda has one of the biggest summer festivals in the country in the Klaipeda Castle Jazz Festival, as well as the much-loved Sea festival. We attract tourists from all over the world. I live in Klaipėda and, believe me, I don’t want go anywhere else during the summer.”

Klaipėda is the third biggest city in Lithuania and is located by the Curonian Lagoon and the

14

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Baltic Sea, 311km northwest of the Capital Vilnius. The city is an important economic centre thanks to its year-round, ice-free port and is a major transit hub in the region as a whole. With its historic Prussian-style architecture, laidback atmosphere and wealth of cultural offerings, Klaipėda attracts tourists from far and wide.

The Klaipėda Castle Jazz Festival has been held annually in June or July since 1994 and is a major jazz event in Lithuania.

Big-name international performers at past festivals include Maynard Ferguson, Toots Thielemans, Billy Cobham Culture Mix, Mike Mainieri, Victor Bailey, Chico & the Gypsies, Soweto Kinch, Alex Wilson, and Nikki Yeoh, among

others. The festival traditionally features an all-night jam session.

“Dazzling, charming, sophisticated, charismatic, soulful!” – these are the sort of things people typically say of the festival.

This year the 21st Klaipėda Castle Jazz Festival, which is held on the first weekend of June, invites Klaipėda residents and foreign guests to a real jazz orchestra regatta in which many world-famous jazz musicians are performing. It is a unique and unforgettable experience for those who take part.

The Klaipėda Sea Festival has been held annually every July since 1934. Now that is a festival with pedigree! It starts at the end of July or beginning of August and lasts

The city is extremely charismatic and has a totally unique vibe thanks to its spectacular architecture and slightly bohemian ambiance.

for 3 days. Before the festival the High Street is festively decorated and the opening ceremony starts with a speech by the mayor following various free street concerts and a local market »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

15

©vidunofoto.lt

where it is possible to purchase various handmade goods, locally produced food, and clothing.

There is also a carnival featuring mythological sea creatures and where children dress up in exotic costumes. There are various international sailing events, different sports competitions, fishing competitions, exhibitions

16

Good Mood Travel Magazine

and street theatre and children's performances. Every year the program introduces something new so each festival is unique.

The Sea Festival always concludes with a spectacular public firework display.

“These festivals are very important to our city but you will have good time in Klaipėda

©vidunofoto.lt

regardless of whether you visit during festival time,” says Martynas.

Klaipėda is a thriving city with a cutting-edge cultural and leisure life. It has a well-developed infrastructure and excellent public transport system. Klaipėda is famed for its beautiful Old Town which is an outstanding example

of German architecture. Sadly, Klaipėda was badly damaged during the war and lost a lot of its historic architecture.

But there is still a lot to see and do in the city. Švyturys is the most popular beer in Lithuania and it is possible to take a guided tour of the brewery where it is made. Visitors can get acquainted

with its time-honoured brewing traditions and sample a fresh batch of beer. Hunting for amber is a popular pastime with locals – it is extremely relaxing to walk along the beach, combing the sand for glistening nuggets of this precious substance. Guided amber hunts are also available. »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

17

©vidunofoto.lt

The city is an important economic centre thanks to its year-round, ice-free port and is a major transit hub in the region as a whole.

There are numerous interesting places to visit, such as Theatre Square, Lietuvninkų Square, Aukštoji Street, Didžioji vandens Street, the Meridianas schooner, Klaipėda Sea Museum and Dolphinarium, the Museum of Clocks and Watches and, of course, Melnragė Pier. Klaipėda also boasts a lively nightlife scene with lots of exciting restaurants and cool bars and nightclubs. The city is extremely charismatic and has a totally unique vibe thanks to its spectacular architecture and slightly bohemian ambiance.

It is a place where all sorts of people mingle comfortably and everyone feels welcome. One thing is for sure – it will leave a lasting impression on you.

18

Good Mood Travel Magazine

©vidunofoto.lt

Must-see places in Klaipėda: Danės

quay – Sailing vessel Meridianas

Drama

theatre

Musical Jonas

Theatre

hill and the Bastion Fortifications

artillery battery "Memel-Nord", outside Giruliai, near the village of Kukuliškiai, Klaipėda district Taxidermy Museum, Karklė village, Klaipėda district

Coastal

Museum

of amber “Amber Queen”

Maritime Museum, Aquarium and Dolphinarium.

(The Maritime Museum is currently closed for reconstruction but the Dolphinarium is open as usual)

Lithuanian

The

Castle Museum

Klaipėda

Museum of Clocks

Lithuanian

Minor History Museum

Sculpture

park

Botanical

Garden of Klaipėda University

Dino

Park, Radailiai village, Klaipėda district

Zoo

museum and safari, Karklė village, Klaipėda district

Mini

zoo, Jonušų village, Klaipėda district

Klaipėda

Carillon (Carillon music concerts are normally performed every Saturday and Sunday at noon)

Klaipėda’s

sculptures

Good Mood Travel Magazine

19

20

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Shutterstock.com

Palanga bridge

Good Mood Travel Magazine

21

22

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Travel Focus Vilnius Summer tips Žverynas: The coolesT posTcode in Town photos by e.Veprinceva

By peter Walsh

There is a lot more to Vilnius than the old Town and Gediminas castle endlessly peddled by tourist brochures. some wonderful districts remain undiscovered by our guests even though they are well worth exploring. One such neighbourhood is Žvėrynas – one of the most prestigious parts of the city. situated a stone’s throw from the city centre, it is bordered by the river neris and is famed for its unique wooden architecture. Peter Walsh, an Englishman who has lived in Žverynas for 7 years and is totally in love with the area, tells you all about it. »»»

Good mood Travel magazine

23

Its ornate wooden villas and tree-lined pavements gave Žvėrynas a distinctly rural ambiance, something it retains to this day despite the on-going building boom of expensive new houses, many of which look straight out of the pages of an architecture magazine.

A stone’s throw from the Parliament, bordered on three sides by the river Neris, rich in wooden architecture, and with the most beautiful park in Vilnius serving as its backyard, it is little wonder that Žvėrynas is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in the city. It is a self-contained little oasis full of laidback restaurants and beautiful houses (it even has a few communal water pumps).

It’s where rustic charm and urban elegance meet, Lithuanian-style.

On the grid Žvėrynas means “land of beasts” because the area was once used by a wealthy noble family to keep wild animals for hunting.

In the 19th century, the area transformed into a fashionable residential district built around a grid structure of parallel streets (the only neighbourhood in the city to take this form). Its ornate wooden villas and tree-lined pavements gave Žvėrynas a distinctly rural ambiance, something it retains to this day despite the on-going building boom of expensive new houses, many of which look straight out of the pages of an architecture magazine.

24

Good Mood Travel Magazine

In Soviet times, the area was carved up house by house and flat by flat to accommodate as many people as possible. Some of these people (or their descendants) remain in the neighbourhood, meaning that the area has not yet become completely gentrified. Žvėrynas boasts some of the most expensive real estate prices in the city but you can still see a lot of authentic (i.e. non-renovated) wooden houses, complete with wonky external staircases and flaky facades, many of which resemble a fairy-tale structure from a popup book.

A place unto itself Žvėrynas feels wonderfully local despite its proximity to the city centre. The best way to get there is over the elegant, arched bridge next to the Parliament. From there you will see the imposing domes of a large Russian Orthodox Church (built in Tsarist times as a symbolic counterweight to Vilnius Cathedral, visible at the far end of Gedimino Avenue). The area is small enough to walk around on foot, although renting a bicycle would give you more scope (especially if you plan to visit Vingis Park).

The Karaite Kenesa, a synagogue for an offshoot of mainstream Judaism, is worth a look (it is on Liubarto St. and is one of only two in the country).

But the real secret to Žvėrynas is to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere. The neighbourhood abounds with beautiful houses, embassies, and sleek new buildings. The people who live there love it, and it shows. Look up and see all the flower-strewn balconies. Look down and see all the lovingly tended gardens. It is smack bang in the centre of the city yet inspires a provincial pace of life (it must be all those trees). »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

25

Photos courtesy of Panama Food Garden

Panama Food Garden is a bar and grill in a beautiful old wooden house that is arguably the best place to eat outdoors in the entire city.

26

Good Mood Travel Magazine

For such a tiny neighbourhood, Žvėrynas boasts a tremendous variety of eating options. Panama Food Garden (Vykinto St. 17A) is a bar and grill in a beautiful old wooden house that is arguably the best place to eat outdoors in the entire city. Its garden is a work of art complete with converted greenhouses and fairy lights festooning the trees looming over the veranda. You will quickly forget you’re in a capital city.

There is also a pizzeria, Chinese restaurant, health food café and sushi bar all within close proximity of each other. But for the best potato pancakes in Vilnius, go to Žvėryno smuklė; it is a real local tavern with reasonably priced food and close to the bridge that leads into Žvėrynas. Veranda is one of the most popular places. Both chic and cosy, it is packed out most of the time thanks to its delightful garden terrace, welcoming interior, friendly staff and easy-going atmosphere. »»»

Sėlių

St.

kių

St.

Sa l to

lių

niš

Sė

St.

Immaculate Catholle church

Kęstučio St.

Latvių

ŽVĖRYNAS

St.

Poškos St.

St. Treniotos

Kęstučio

Lithuanian hand crafted wooden toy shop!

St. 18

k

ar is p

Pušų St.

g

Vin

Vytauto St.

St. Moniuškos

rine St. Cathe x o d o Orth church

dge bri

St. Latvių

Znamenskaya Orthodox church

St. Traidenio

Birutės

St.

Karaite Kenessa

St.

ver is ri Ner

us Mickevičia

17A Vykinto St.

t.

Liubarto S

Kęstučio St. vskio J. I. Kraše

St.

t.

openstreetmap.org

sS

tė

ru Bi

Vingis park

Good Mood Travel Magazine

27

Vingis Park Žvėrynas is home to some 11,000 residents but a lot of people drive, cycle, run and walk through it every day to get to nearby Vingis (Vingio) Park. The park truly sets Vilnius apart as one of the greenest cities in Europe. It is a vast, lush pine forest crisscrossed with footpaths and trails; a giant nature reserve in the heart of the city (abuzz with people having fun).

There is something magical about Vingis Park and the way it attracts people of all ages and types. Joggers, cyclists, Nordic walkers, roller-skaters; elderly people sitting on benches enjoying the tranquil surroundings; young lovers revelling in their happiness; teenagers playing Frisbee and football; whole families strolling about – Vingis Park plays a huge role in local life. Everyone has their own special memories of it.

It is rather like a selfcontained holiday resort. From the entrance on Birutės Street (across a pedestrian suspension bridge), you can follow the main path straight to the centre of the park, a huge, circular clearing that contains an amphitheatre which was specially designed for folk music performances but which also hosts major pop concerts in summer (Lady Gaga and Elton John are among the many big names to have performed there).

The stadium was a focal point for anti-Soviet rallies in the 1980s and attracted hundreds of thousands of people; nature and national pride go hand in hand in Lithuania.

There is a small amusement park for children behind the amphitheatre. There are also several places to rent rollerblades and bicycles. There are also quite a few eating options. Lakštingala (Nightingale) is an old-fashioned café-restaurant that is a pleasant place to enjoy a beer although the food is stodgy. Thankfully, the

28

Good Mood Travel Magazine

newly-opened Picnic Bistro has a wonderful terrace and offers a great range of food, such as burgers and pizzas. There is even a health food option at the back of the amphitheatre along with a mobile “foodie” van (complete with hipster-like tables made from old pallets).

The Botanical Garden makes for a charming detour or you could just stroll along one of the many trails that run through the forest or follow the meandering banks of the river Neris; in either case, you will probably feel a pang of jealousy. Few capital cities have a park like Vingis. It is popular allyear round with joggers and dogwalkers (in winter people even ski there) but in summer it is packed

The park truly sets Vilnius apart as one of the greenest cities in Europe. It is a vast, lush pine forest crisscrossed with footpaths and trails; a giant nature reserve in the heart of the city. until late at night. It brings out the best in people; perhaps it is the fresh, pine-scented air, but the place is suffused with an air of good will and levity. Put simply, it is the perfect place to relax and get away from the stresses of city life.

Lithuanians remain extremely close to nature (just about everyone

has a summer house) and Vingis Park meets their deep-rooted need to be surrounded by greenery and birdsong. Look around; you’ll not seen any trash anywhere or any anti-social behaviour. Lithuanians love nature but also feel a quiet reverence towards it.

In summer the park frequently hosts a range of special events,

concerts and mass meetings of fitness enthusiasts. Either way, the place is plenty big enough for everyone to find what they are looking for. Personally speaking, I go to Vingis Park every day to walk my dog and never, ever tire of it.

I frequently meet my friends there in summer to enjoy a refreshing beer or to knock a badminton

shuttlecock back and forth. In short, I feel immensely fortunate to have it in my life.

Whether you are walking or cycling, you can exit the park by the entrance on M. K. Čiurlionio Street (it leads directly back to the Old Town) or return to the city centre via Žvėrynas.

Good Mood Travel Magazine

29

30

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Photo by E.Veprinceva

Good Mood Travel Magazine

31

Get in a good mood June 23-24 The shortest night of the year

JONINES: CHRISTMAS MIRACLES IN SUMMER

By Evaldas Činga

Nature was worshiped In Lithuania for centuries. Before the country became Christianised, Lithuanians were pagan who praised and venerated nature. They believed in nature deities because they were wholly dependent on nature and its whims.

Photo by A.Šileikytė

It is said that when the Teutonic Knights came to Lithuania in the 13th century, they were frightened to enter forests even in the daytime: they believed that the forests were swarming with devils and demons that could grab passers-by and carry them off, never to be seen again. Many legends were told about Lithuanian customs and the local reverence for nature. Newcomers believed that the health, beauty and bravery of Lithuanian people was a gift from the wondrous and generous nature of Lithuania.

32

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Many legends were told about Lithuanian customs and the local reverence for nature.

Rasos, Kupolės and

Joninės In the past the celebration was called Rasos, a name derived from rasa – the glistening droplets of dew covering meadows at daybreak. It was believed that washing your face with dew collected from rye could rejuvenate it; dew was used to moisten bed linen for the sick in the belief it would return them to health. It was used to water vegetable gardens, believing this would make the soil more fertile.

It was even given to animals to drink.

At one point this special night was called Kupolės, because in the evening people traditionally »»»

Photo by D.Sirvydis

Times have changed, however, and now we can share all the wonders of nature with you, good traveller: all you need to do is come to Lithuania on June 23 and join us for an exceptional midsummer celebration. Let us put it simply: you could spend a month in a health resort or opt instead for one night in Lithuania to heal all your ailments, take 20 years off you and reveal your future. How is that possible, you say? On this night, everything is possible. It’s like Christmas, only in summer.

It is a magical night that everyone in Lithuania waits for impatiently, just as their ancestors did: the shortest night of the year.

The sun’s victory against night and darkness. On this night, vegetation seems more lush and luxuriant than ever, and every single tiny plant reaches maturity, ready to create new life. It is a celebration of rebirth for nature and every living creature.

One of the main rituals is the lighting of the fire.

Good Mood Travel Magazine

33

The most important and mysterious tradition of Joninės night is the search for the fern flower. It is said to bloom at midnight, and anyone who finds its flower, which only blooms for a short moment, will gain incredible power. picked medicinal herbs – an activity called kupoliavimas. It was believed that on this night medicinal herbs acquire their healing properties.

They would later be used to brew teas, or placed near the roof. St. John wort picked on Joninės was said to cure 99 kinds of illness.

After Christianisation, the celebrations were associated with the birth of St John the Baptist, and named Joninės (from Lithuanian Jonas for John). The century-long traditions and mystical rituals were not forgotten, however; so let us give you a few tips on what to do to make the best use of the magic of Joninės so you’ll return home healthy, rested, revived, and who knows, maybe with your newfound other half.

Mystical healing rituals As you arrive at the festivities, you must first walk through the special gates of Kupolės, which are decorated with herbs. Walking through the gates is a symbol of rebirth, and as you pass, you might be asked to dance, or sing a song, but let us tell you a little secret – a smile will do just fine.

Unmarried girls must make a wreath from nine or twelve different herbs before midnight: it is not only a traditional accessory, but also a mystical charm to draw the attention of your true love.

34

Good Mood Travel Magazine

The wreath is later set afloat in a river, and the faster the current carries it, the sooner the girl gets married.

One of the main rituals is the lighting of the fire. The fire is lit on a high hill at dusk and kept burning all through the night until dawn.

It is believed that the lighter the fields are, the greater the harvest will be. Another important custom is jumping over the fire of Joninės, as jumping guarantees good health and cleanses you of your sins. So it is essential to jump over the fire, but wait until it dies down, of course! If you jump holding hands with your loved one, you will get married that same year.

The most important and mysterious tradition of Joninės night is the search for the fern flower. The fern is said to bloom at midnight, and anyone who finds its flower, which only blooms for a short moment, will gain incredible power: they will understand all the mysteries of nature, read minds, see what is invisible and acquire wealth and lasting happiness.

Traditionally, people are supposed to look for the fern flower alone but for some reason most people return in twos!

If it happens that you are not allowed to jump over fires, make wreaths, or search for fern flowers, don’t worry: simply being part of this ancient Lithuanian

celebration will fill you with longlasting positive emotions and good energy. It is crucial to stay up all night and see the sun rise. You can return to your hotel in the morning – by then you will be charged with enough mystical healing energy for the whole year. What, only for a year, you say? Well of course: you will return next year.

It is a great experience to celebrate Joninės/Rasos at the State Cultural Reserve of Kernavė or at Rumšiškės Ethnic Open Air Museum. Either way, the whole country will be celebrating and you are very welcome to join in.

Photo by A.Šileikytė

Celebrating Rasos at the State Cultural Reserve of Kernavė A traditional midsummer night celebration in one of the most enchanting places in Lithuania, a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated by the ancient mounds.

Kernavė is the historic capital of pagan Lithuania, a place where one can truly experience the ancient Baltic spirit and feel in touch with nature deities.

June

23

State Cultural Reserve of Kernavė, Širvintų district, Kernavė

Celebrating Kupolės in Nida The tradition of celebrating Kupolės comes back to life in the Tylos (Silence) Valley at the foot of Parnidžio dune. Here people gather herbs, weave grass diadems, and sing Joninės‘ songs. The last rays of the sun are gathered during a ceremony near a sundial. One of the most beautiful moments of the celebration is the march with torches from the Parnidis dunes to the port of Nida where a special concert for Joninės takes place.

June

23

Various places, Nida, Neringa

Celebrating Joninės at Rumšiškės Ethnic Open Air Museum Coming to Rumšiškės is like boarding a time machine. The museum is a reconstruction of Lithuanian rural life of a century ago, and so the celebrations here are just as lively and cheerful as they were in the good old days.

You’ll be singing and dancing around the fire all through the night.

June

24

Rumšiškės Ethnic Open Air Museum, Rumšiškės, Kauno district

Good Mood Travel Magazine

35

Shutterstock.com

Trakai – another popular summer travel destination

36

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Good Mood Travel Magazine

37

Our Recommendations & Best-loved Places

Photo courtesy of Panama Food Garden

These are some of the places that we especially love. Some of them are well-known, others are wellkept secrets, but all of them are especially worth a visit. For this issue we focus on outdoor places, the coast and the best places to eat and chill. We don’t like tourist traps and only recommend the places that we ourselves love. This way, you get to experience the real Lithuania. For an even more authentic and enriching experience, you can take a personal guide with you. In any case, summer is a special time in Lithuania. »»»

38

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Panama Food Garden

Best outdoors

Medinis arkliukas (The Wooden horse)

Of course you are always looking for a perfect little gift for your children. If you are looking for something that is uniquely Lithuanian, eco-friendly and special, you should definitely visit Medinis arkliukas in Žvėrynas (Vilnius). From classical rocking horses to linen dolls and educational wooden toys, you will find all sorts of beautifully hand crafted toys to stimulate and entertain your child. These are the sort of wooden toys that make a childhood truly special and remain forever dear.

This is one of the best-kept secrets in Vilnius. It is the perfect place for a great time. Outstanding food, fairy-tale chic, warm and friendly. Panama is set in a lovingly converted old wooden house. It has a large garden, terrace and converted green house decorated with fairy lights. The smell of grilled fresh fish and meat seasons the conversation. The food is earthy but gourmet-standard; a return to the classic basics of good food. The atmosphere is dreamily beautiful and self-contained. Panama is stylish and intimate, the sort of place that you just keep wanting to go back to. We heartily recommend it.

Photos courtesy of Medinis arkliukas

Photos courtesy of Panama Food Garden

For memorable childhood

Vykinto St. 17A, Vilnius

Kęstučio St. 18, Vilnius

Mon-Fri: 11.30-23:00 Sat: 12:00-00:00 Sun: 12:00-22:00 +370 650 82829

Mon-Fri: 9:00-19:00 Sat: 10:00-15:00 www.thewoodenhorse.eu

Good Mood Travel Magazine

39

For coffee lovers

Taste Map Coffee Roasters

All the most popular restaurants and food providers in Vilnius gather in one place, at Tymas Market, to create one of the best outdoor places in town every Friday. You can find everything from pizzas and burgers to paella and raw food specialties. This is a small food festival where people come to enjoy good food, socialize and listen to good music. It’s crowded all day with families and business people doing lunch. It’s a great place to hang out and enjoy snacks and beer after work.

This new place is definitely one of our best discoveries of the year. Taste Map Coffee Roasters is a must for every coffee lover. Located on Čiurlionio Street, not far from Vingis Park, it has become a focal point for coffee lovers all around the city. The coffee is simply unsurpassed, using beans from Kenya, Guatemala Columbia and Brazil, among other countries, which they then roast themselves. No need for gimmicky syrups and flavourings. This is coffee for gourmands, rich and exquisite, in a stylish place that is full of friendly, interesting people. You can even wash down your coffee with one of their unbelievably tasty desserts!

Photos courtesy of Taste Map & saruneZurbaPhoto

Photos courtesy of A.Didžgalvis & kameraproduction

Open Kitchen food market

Tymas market, Aukštaičių St./Maironio St., Vilnius

Čiurlionio St. 8, Vilnius

Every Friday: 11:30-22:00

Mon-Fr: 7:00-20:00 Sat: 9:00-20:00 Sun: 10:00-19:00

40

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Picnic Bistro

Local produce

The newly-opened Picnic Bistro in Vingis park is a godsend for the many nature lovers who frequent the park. Families with children, sports enthusiasts and dog walkers now have a great place to go for coffee, beer, or a glass of wine. It is located opposite the stadium and has a lovely terrace as well as nice indoor seating for rainy days. The menu is small but good. We like the gourmet burgers and pizzas among other things.

Marche de Provence Marche de Provence, a French restaurant located in the very heart of the Old Town, is the last word in culinary quality. It feels special and self-contained with its homely atmosphere and magnificent, cozy and charming yard. Best of all, the service and food is unsurpassed. It isn’t cheap but we believe it is worth every penny. Book ahead to be safe.

Pilies St. 27, Vilnius Mon-Sun: 12:00-24:00

Ridikai

Photos courtesy of Picnic Bistro & by E.Veprinceva

This is a place for real food lovers. You’ll always get the very best here. No coziness, no style, no fancy interior, no politeness from the staff. However, the food is more than amazing. Every inhabitant in Klaipėda knows it. They always have fresh fish, meat, and wonderful desserts (especially the chocolate lava). It feels like visiting your rude uncle who is a real food specialist and knows it. It’s on the way to the New Ferry terminal. A word of warning: the portions are huge.

Varnėnų St. 7, Klaipėda Tue-Thu: 11:00-21:00 Fri-Sat: 11:00-22:00 Sun: 11:00-19:00

Kaštonas Maybe there are some better places to eat in Nida but you won‘t find a better and more relaxed atmosphere than in Kaštonas (Chestnut). The summer cafe – or wooden kiosk – is under a real chestnut and is a great place to socialize, try the local beer, enjoy the great sandwiches, and meet kindred spirits. Located right on the very coast of the Curonian lagoon, it boasts a romantic view of small boats and fishmermen. Live music is a regular feature.

M.K.Čiurlionio St. 98, Vilnius

Taikos St., Nida

Good Mood Travel Magazine

41

Senamiestis bar

When you go to the old ferry terminal to get from Klaipėda to the Curonian Spit, we recommend you chill and have a burger and beer at Meat Lovers Pub while waiting for your ferry. The lagoon, boats, people waiting for the ferry – it all makes for a perfect view while virtually sitting in the lagoon in a bar with huge windows or on the delightful rooftop terrace. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a cool summer breeze. Many people come here in the evening as the twinkling lights from ships create a wonderful atmosphere.

A bar in the very heart of Klaipeda’s Old Town, in a courtyard full of art galleries and workshops. It’s unique because of its impressive cheese fingers.

Everyone who lives in Klaipeda brings their guests here just so they can try the cheese fingers and beer. The bar not only serves food but abounds with art as well. A bohemian atmosphere is guaranteed.

This is a local gem that is beautifully hidden away and known to very few.

©vidunofoto.lt

Photo courtesy of Meat Lovers Klaipėda

Meat Lovers Klaipėda, Bar & Grill

Danės St. 1, Klaipėda (The Old Ferry terminal)

Bažnyčių St. 4 / Daržų St. 10 , Klaipėda

Mon-Sun: 10:00-22:00

Mon-Sun: 10:00-23:00

42

Good Mood Travel Magazine

For coffee lovers

Kavos architektai

Friedricho pasažas is one of the most significant symbols of Klaipeda. This is a place where the long and colorful history of the Old Town meets modernity.

This unique place epitomizes the best European traditions and includes cozy cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and a guest house all under one roof.

You’ll find a good pizzeria, restaurant, steakhouse, winery and much more in one cozy courtyard.

We heartily recommend this place for coffee lovers visiting Klaipėda. Kavos architektai (architects of coffee) is a place for real coffee enthusiasts and aims to promote slow coffee culture. You can not only taste a wide variety of the very best coffees (best value coffee in the world we reckon) but enjoy the wonderful atmosphere created by the ever friendly and sincere owners.

Photo courtesy of Kavos architektai

Photos courtesy of Friedriocho pasažas

Friedricho pasažas

Tiltų St. 26 A, Klaipėda

Herkaus Manto St. 9, Klaipėda

Mon-Sat: 11:00-24:00 Sun: 12:00-23:00

Mon-Fri: 07:00-19:00 Sat: 10:00-16:00

Good Mood Travel Magazine

43

Farmers market Sambaris

Local produce

Šturmų Švyturys

Some places are simply magical and this is one such place. Štumrų švyturys is located near Ventės ragas.

You can reach it from Nida by boat or by car from Šilutė. Some people call this place a gem, others call it a paradise for birds. But everyone agrees that this place is perfect. This is the only fresh fish restaurant in Lithuania where you won’t find a traditional menu.

Fishermen set sail into the lagoon every day, and what you eat on the day depends on the Maumas of the lagoon and the luck of the fishermen. Their magic fish soup, served with the spell of fire and a special sauce, is believed to fulfill your most secret wishes.

©vidunofoto.lt

Photos by R.Baltaduonienė

Where else can you find local farmers’ produce, from fresh Lithuanian garden vegetables and berries to cheese and bread? Where else can you meet local farmers, chat to them, meet local people and feel the vibe of the city? Such meetings between people and farmers happen in Klaipėda every Thursday throughout the summer. Come, meet and taste.

Local produce

Herkaus Kanto alinė, Kepėjų St. 17, Klaipėda Every Thursday: 16:00-19:00

44

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Šilutė dist., Kintai municipality, Šturmai village

Photo by R.BaltaduonienÄ—

Good Mood Travel Magazine

45

Meet the Locals!

Gabija is a very passionate and interesting guide who takes guests all around the country. Luckily for us she agreed to share some of her discoveries with our readers.

The winemaker who bottles spring

By Gabija Lunevičiūtė

Photos by I. Lučinskytė

The lush greenery and silvery waters of Lithuania’s longest river, the Nemunas, running alongside the road Kaunas-Jurbarkas gave it the name of Rojaus kelias – the Road of Heaven. Every turn reveals manors, castles, and scattered mounds, those living reminders of ancient legends from the time of the Dukes. When you pass the small town of Jurbarkas, just over the river Nemunas lies the little town of Kiduliai, famous for the wines of local winemaker Juozas Vilkenis.

46

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Juozas, a dedicated follower of family traditions, makes white dandelion wine, which holds a national heritage certificate, red wine from six types of berries, red blackcurrant wine and pink wine with mint. Visitors are warmly invited to sit down in the winery and café, which Juozas built with his own hands, to taste the wine’s distinct flavour of Lithuanian summer and hear his philosophy.

“As a three-year-old tot I would already cling to my grandfather’s trouser legs and help, inasmuch as I could, to make wine. Grandpa used to joke that he had a successor to preserve family traditions,” remembers the 60-year-old winemaker. Today, wines made from a 130-yearold recipe (perhaps even older – it is difficult to trace back its history) attract people from all »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

47

Juozas, a dedicated follower of family traditions, makes white dandelion wine, which holds a national heritage certificate, red wine from six types of berries, red blackcurrant wine and pink wine with mint. over Lithuania to the small town of Kinduliai. The white dandelion wine is particularly popular.

“Whenever people hear of dandelion wine, they become interested in how wine could be made from dandelions, and want to try it. All you need for dandelion wine is dandelion blossoms, water, sugar and early-gathered dandelion honey. My grandfather used to make this wine, and his grandfather before him – I am a fifth-generation winemaker. Most winemakers say that dandelions are no better than animal feed so no good wine could come of it.

I prove them wrong. It is a fine,

48

Good Mood Travel Magazine

exceptionally flavoursome wine,” says the winemaker, who also follows his grandfather’s recipe to make red wine from six types of berries. For this, he uses three types of wild berries and three types of garden berries: blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, cherries and two kinds of currant.

According to Juozas, a few centuries ago dandelion wine was more popular than grape wine: it was produced in Europe, Asia and America as early as the 18th century. Only later was it outrivalled by grape wine, which is easier, and perhaps cheaper, to make. Juozas Vilkenis is the only Lithuanian maker of dandelion wine to hold a national heritage certificate. When the fields and meadows start blooming with thousands of dandelions, he must hurry to collect the yield, he says, or else see the wine fly away in a cloud of white fluff.

“To make a bottle of dandelion wine, you need two hundred and fifty blossoms, an armful about this big,” says Juozas and stretches out his arms. “In spring, our family collects six tons of blossoms with the help of children from the local

school. The pupils earn a little money, we have a celebration and spend some time together.

We also gather the berries for red wine together, like a neighbourly community.”

Juozas says he could make wine from any product: beetroot, carrots, coffee, barley. After many years of experiments and comments from friends and relatives, he came to the conclusion that the best things are passed on from generation to generation, and success only comes when you love what you do.

“I am successful, that’s true, but there is no secret to it. If you want to work, it’s a start. If you have knowledge, you have the second component of success. Only half of what I do is a business that puts bread on the table. The other half is a hobby I just could not live without. I’m convinced that if you want to achieve anything at all, you have to get a kick out of it. I walk round and I notice things: this needs doing, that needs adding.

And I feel like a creator. Wine is a way of being together, a living thing which dies when you only think of money,” explains Juozas as he

To make a bottle of dandelion wine, you need two hundred and fifty blossoms. gestures towards the surroundings of the café. “Everything you see – hedges, walls, furniture, fireplaces – we built with our own hands.

My wife and I worked when the children were very young, and when they got older, they helped out, too.”

Following in the family tradition, Juozas’ three-year-old grandson, Matas, joins him and his son in the processes of winemaking. No one else touches the wine. Only then, Juozas says, can wine be truly good and flavoursome.

The science-fiction writer Ray Bradbury wrote about how lovely it is to sit by a fireplace with a glass of dandelion wine in your hand on a cold, frosty winter night with deep snowdrifts outside the window and suddenly hear the chattering of birds, and feel as if a flowery field, full of life, was laying right in front of you. And there certainly is something of the yellow dandelion fields, soft gusts of wind and sweet-scented spring nights captured and bottled in the handmade wine of Juozas Vilkenis.

“Good and truly flavoursome wine can only be made if the same person works on it from the beginning of the process through to the final tasting. Only then can you control all the factors that determine the taste. Wine is alive; it likes being touched, talked to.

That’s no fairy tale. My grandfather spoke to wine that way, and his father before him. If you don’t, the wine will not be as good,” insists Juozas.

The law allows the Vilkeniai family to produce as much wine as they can or wish to, but sell no more than 10 tons a year, which adds up to about 37 bottles a day.

“A family can easily produce such an amount without assistance. My

wife Vida, our daughter Kristina, son Tadas, and daughter-in-law Vaida are only called in when we need extra help,” says Juozas, who is happy to have his children living under the same roof, all working together to help the family business.

“The most important job in life is to raise children and instil the right values in them: to raise them

to be good people who want to live here in Lithuania and do what they love. Money is just a by-product. It should never be the sole purpose of your work. And if you work hard, you’ll survive one way or another. I never apply for any grants, I want to create everything with my own hands and prove to myself that I can live in Lithuania purely from my own efforts.”

Good Mood Travel Magazine

49

Gifts and souvenirs: our recommendations what gifts you should bring home from lithuania With our help and advice, you can find the perfect gifts and souvenirs to capture the best of Lithuania. We really want our quality products to represent our country in the world and that’s why we put a lot of thought and care into our recommendations. most of them are handmade, original and could be delivered right to your hotel. lithuanian designer brooches from MiuTTO miUTTo is an online store with a simple aim: to bring the best of Lithuanian designer jewelry to wherever you are in the world. They are passionately proud of Lithuanian jewelry and believe it deserves a closer look by anyone interested in all things beautiful!

From €54,00

www.miutto.com

50

Good mood Travel magazine

TeRBa bag from SmartaRT design Loop after loop, Justė binds her famous TERBA bags from ropes. With so much love and passion, she makes bags of various mood-making colors, from chocolate and ink to wheat or wine. The bags are durable and can withstand heavy loads. They are also sooo spacious – they often save you in extreme situations. not only are they very comfortable ant practical but also very stylish. They are especially suitable for summer because of their stylishness, originality and the good mood they inspire. every TeRBa looks absolutely different depending on who is carrying it.

€59,00

www.smartart.lt

lithuanian designer’s kids clothes & bedding from BaBy BOuTiQue babyboutique.lt is well known among stylish mothers who also care deeply about good quality and ecofriendly materials. The beautiful and comfortable clothes are exclusively selected from Lithuanian designers. You can also purchase a wide range of tasteful bedding, accessories and toys. The prices are the same as the usual retail prices so no extra cost is incurred. and the service itself is excellent – this e-boutique always deliver on time. so you have peace of mind knowing they will promptly deliver your gifts to your hotel while you are out sightseeing. They also deliver worldwide so they can post your purchases to you at a later date.

various prices babyboutique.lt (ships worldwide)

Tablecloth from native lT The grainy patterns of the time-grayed planks of the barn are transferred onto the tablecloth, which the maker discovered in the old homestead of her grandparents. planks look realistic – when you see them you want to touch them. such old, rich smells have an accent, they undoubtedly lend warmth to any interior and inspire us in life. native LT specialize in home decor inspired by Lithuanian nature and traditional crafts - tablecloths, cushions and table runners. They connect the old and the new inventively and stylishly. They create authentic fabric patterns in a modern way, which would look equally at home in a village homestead or a chic urban loft.

From €18,00 www.native.lt

Good mood Travel magazine

51

52

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Photo by A.Šileikytė

Good Mood Travel Magazine

53

54

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Taste of Lithuania More fun than fondue Photo courtesy of Romnesa

By Gina Kubiliūtė

It has a gentle scent of vanilla, reminiscent of sponge cake or coffeecake. It is shaped like a fir tree with lovely little branches. The unique tree cake, šakotis, is invariably found on the table during special occasions in Lithuania. No wedding, baptism, anniversary, Easter or Christmas is celebrated without it. It is also a popular souvenir. Šakotis is an exceptional cake that would be hard to make at home since it requires special equipment and a great deal of effort. Šakotis is a variety of the German baumkuchen, and is sometimes referred to by the adapted name of bankuchenas.

Some sources claim šakotis was first baked in Europe as early as the 15th century. It was originally made only by monks, and the recipe was a closely guarded secret. There are around 60 different recipes of šakotis known today. The cake reached Lithuania at the beginning of the 20th century and was also first made in monasteries.

Secret recipe Bakeries that make šakotis keep their recipe a closely guarded secret. “At first things were tough,” smiles chef Valius Čepanonis, who started his bakery in Dzūkija a few years ago. Other producers of the šakotis cake were reluctant to share their recipes or experience in this line of business.

“I had to figure it our alone.

I went to Norway, Germany, Denmark. I tasted and compared the products. When we began experimenting in our bakery, we wasted a lot of ingredients and had to eat the whole thing ourselves,” Valius laughs.

But the result kept getting better until a satisfactory recipe was finally developed and they could begin selling their treats.

Today, their šakotis can be found in exhibitions and fairs, and thanks to their loyal customers, is even sold as far afield as Poland.

Aiming for a world record The bakery and museum Romnesa in Strigailiškis, Ignalina district, is aiming for a world record. In May they made a test šakotis that weighed 100 kg and was 3.7 m tall.

According to the owner of Romnesa, Romualdas Spulis, they made 270 kg of batter for the cake and used 1,700 eggs.

Romualdas says šakotis has been their specialty for 20 years.

The company is a leading producer of the šakotis cake in Lithuania.

Their product is exported to many countries, such as Germany, the USA, UK and others. Of the 60 recipes known to the firm, the two most favoured by Lithuanians are the ‘traditional’ and the ‘crumbly’ šakotis.

Prices vary: the so-called VIP variety costs about 2.5 times more than the regular kind, as

the cakes are made from locally produced eggs and home-made butter. A kilogram of šakotis then costs around 20 euros. The price for a kilogram of regular šakotis is around 9 euros.

Try your hand at making šakotis Anyone who is interested in the history and methods of making šakotis is welcome to visit Strigailiškis village. In Romnesa restaurant and museum you may sample not only the Lithuanian šakotis but its foreign equivalents as well. You can also participate in the educational programme Baking the šakotis. How is šakotis made, and what are the ingredients? How does it differ from baumkuchen? What kind of šakotis did our forbears used to make? What was the favourite dessert of the legendary duchess Barbora Radvilaitė? You will find the answers to all these questions »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

55

The unique tree cake, šakotis, is invariably found on the table during special occasions in Lithuania. during the programme, which you can also enjoy at the Romnesa branch in Druskininkai and at Ignė Homestead in Jaskonys.

The programme includes a guided tour of the museum and tells you all about the history of šakotis baking, as well as allowing you to take part in the baking process and a special tasting session. Visitors may try their hand at baking šakotis and sample other varieties that are popular in Germany, Poland, Sweden, Hungary and Japan.

“Most visitors usually eat their šakotis right there and then with a cup of tea or coffee,” says Romuladas.

Foreign visitors who have participated in the programme insist that it’s tastier and more fun than fondue.

A favourite at weddings Laurynas Babarskis, director of Šakotis, a company that has been baking šakotis cake for 26 years, admits that it is a very special line of work that requires a lot effort.

His mother Birutė started the family business.

In Soviet times, Birutė worked for the first factory to make šakotis in Vilnius. After Lithuania gained independence, she started her own business. Although it was hard going at first, the company is now doing extremely well.

“Of course, it’s not something we eat every day. There’s always more work during holidays because šakotis is made for festivities. It is a must at Lithuanian weddings. So we aren’t surprised to get more orders towards the end of summer,

56

Good Mood Travel Magazine

when the wedding season is at its height,” Laurynas explained.

For one wedding, they even baked a special šakotis that weighed 12 kg and measured 1.10 m in height.

Laurynas says that šakotis is an extremely popular gift among foreigners and with Lithuanians visiting family and friends abroad.

A lot of the cakes are bought in airports and train stations. It makes a perfect gift as it is light to carry and has a shelf-life of around two months.

‘Growing’ the layers of šakotis Although the exact recipe

for šakotis is a secret, the main ingredients are widely known: eggs, butter or margarine, flour, sugar and sour cream. It can be coated with chocolate icing and decorated with confectionary flowers. It takes about 40 minutes to bake a 1-kilogram šakotis cake.

First of all, the batter is prepared. The batter is then dripped on a wax paper-covered rod that rotates in a heat of around 400 degrees Celsius. As the batter drips, it bakes and thickens. The rod continues turning and another layer is formed. Leftovers fall on a baking sheet underneath. The šakotis can be cut the next day.

The cuts reveal the layers that

were ‘grown’, that is, the number of times batter dripped on the rod.

The latest fashion?

There is a funny story involving a šakotis from a few years ago. A woman bringing a šakotis cake abroad to her daughter was boarding a plane at Kaunas airport.

She had not packed the cake in

her suitcase because she wanted to carry it by hand. The airline had a rule prohibiting people from carrying any items other than permitted baggage, but the woman insisted. She told the flight attendants that the šakotis was a gift for her daughter and there was no way she was going to leave it behind.

But the cabin crew would not budge on the matter. The woman then came up with the clever idea of sporting the šakotis firmly on her head. She argued that the cake was, in fact, a hat and that as part of her outfit she had every right to wear it. And so the passenger boarded the plane wearing a cake on her head!

Good Mood Travel Magazine

57

Leisure Tips Experience a bird’s-eye view of the Curonian Spit

By Milda Mizarienė

Photo courtesy of Skydive Klaipėda Club

In keeping with this issue’s summer theme, Good Mood Travel Magazine wants to recommend a way of killing two birds with one stone: experience the unique thrill of skydiving while enjoying a spectacular view of the Curonian Spit from high above. Indeed, you will also get a perfect aerial view of the great city of Klaipeda and see the white sands of the Lithuanian coast stretch off into the distance. For some people, skydiving is an almost spiritual experience; it combines heightened physical sensations with a complete sense of calm as you apparently float in mid-air.

58

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Skydiving is normally associated with adrenaline junkies but is not the case, according to Skydive Klaipėda Club member, Gytis Skučas. “This is more an activity for people who love good company and experiencing new sensations,” he says. First and foremost, you have to trust your instructor and there are none better than those at the Skydive Klaipėda Club. They

have thousands of jumps between them and instill newcomers with the confidence they need to take that first leap of faith.

Lithuania has 5 skydiving clubs but we are recommending the one in Klaipeda for obvious reasons. It can comfortably fit in with your trip to the Lithuanian coast, as well as offering a top-quality service. »»»

Good Mood Travel Magazine

59

The club is located in Klaipeda’s Avia-Esquadron, barely 10 km away from the city. “Can you imagine the amazing feeling as you are floating by the plane, looking down from a height of 3 kilometers?” says Skučas. “You’ll see the Curonian Spit and all the surrounding water, the Baltic Sea, and lagoon, the beaches and vast

60

Good Mood Travel Magazine

swaths of pine forest. You’ll also experience the feeling of freefalling while surrounded by all that beauty.”

Attractive for foreign guests Skydiving is becoming an increasingly popular activity in Lithuania. The Skydive Klaipėda Club

says it has enjoyed a phenomenal rise in demand in recent years.

Last year alone, it recorded 900 jumps. Interestingly, many of the people who go skydiving in Klaipeda come from abroad.

Skučas believes that they choose Klaipeda for skydiving because of the breathtaking landscape and excellent levels of service on offer.

The highly experienced team of instructors can all communicate fluently in Russian and English.

The low prices are undoubtedly an added bonus.

Gytis recommends first-time jumpers begin with the Tandem jump. This is the most popular type of jump with an instructor and the preparation time takes only 10-15 minutes. The Tandem jump is also known as “the kangaroo” because it is designed to safely harness two people together: the instructor and jumper. With the instructor’s help you will experience all the pleasure of the free-fall and gain valuable experience. More experienced jumpers can enjoy a range of other options. The price of the Tandem jump is 120 Euro.

Good Mood Travel Magazine

61

Been there, done that!

Elhussein fr

o

m I recommen d Lithuania Egyptian frie nds who lov

Visitors' Impressions & Recommendations

What do our guests think after visiting Lithuania? What were their best experiences? Here they share their recommendations and insights for the benefit of others.

Sweden: lub Björn from in the summer or go to a c

men. ntre cafe eautiful wo ome city ce b s e in th it y s b t s d e Ju l be amaz and you wil

My biggest impression of Lithuania is what a complex country it is and its people. It has a story that is hundreds of years old of being under another flag than its own.

To see how this new young country takes steps to keep its freedom is amazing. And how the people struggle there. I also see a country which suffered an economic crisis and which needs new self-confidence to make it strong again.

This is so their best trained people, such as engineers and the like, will stay there and not leave for a life in other countries. Lithuanian people are very friendly and very helpful; if you speak to them in a respectful way, they respect you too. Although the older generation seems not very happy with their lives and very sentimental. Maybe it’s history and poverty which made them like that.

Actually I am interested in history and found the KGB-museum in the middle of the city very interesting.

To see how bad humans can be to other humans never stops to shock me. The torture chambers there highlight the evilness of the communist era in the country. It’s as necessary to see as Auschwitz.

It’s part of history we never shall

forget in order not to repeat the same brutal experiences again.

Small nice bars and restaurants in the centre are very cozy and have friendly staff. They are often young people. But do not order the national food, cepelinai! It’s too heavy!

Lithuanians do not have very big self-esteem or believe in themselves and the chances for their country to develop. It’s a pity. I can see it in their faces.

Also the city of Vilnius needs more entertainment and cultural development.

Lithuania has very good looking women who seem to take care of themselves and are very savvy in fashion and design. It’s really an asset.

utes m Italy: Luigi fro l life and after 10 min

ocia forest. a good s e v a h lost in a n a e b n a You c c u by car yo

Mostly I liked the quiet and clean cities and little towns.

I advise for sure not to visit touristic places, try fish on ice and experience some typical country houses.

Biggest disappointment… for sure no direct flight from Pisa-Vilnius. The water of the Baltic sea seems like it’s from a fridge.

Winter is unique and very long if you have time to enjoy it. It was a surprise to see that Lithuanians don't drink vodka like water but they like hot herbal tea.

62

Good Mood Travel Magazine

going to land. I had some strange feelings, I am Egyptian, I am used to desert and plain land and I can see the runway of any airport in Egypt from above very clearly.

Egypt:

a to all my ve travelling .

But actually as we got closer, the runway seemed very small and surrounded by trees.

The airport is small which meant I was coming to a small city, or in Egypt that would mean Vilnius is like a big village.

Actually, let me start with something funny. As the plane started the landing process in Vilnius I was surprised to see just forests and trees everywhere. I was afraid where the pilot was

Go to Nida. It is a very nice small town near the sea and it is interesting with its bars and clubs which actually have a different atmosphere to other cities in

In Lithuania I discovered a real identity apart from Russia, a real way of life (so peaceful in comparison with Paris) and furthermore a multi-secular history!

Just feel the softness of Vilnius by walking around the streets, enjoy kind of very middle European feelings and drink a delicious beer... I highly recommend the national museum in Vilnius. I was so excited and moved by the discovery of the Lithuanian-Polish commonwealth. I recommend also Kaunas and the cute and very similar Italian way of life, "passegiata", in the evening.

I liked also the little trip by train between Vilnius and Kaunas and the charming forest landscapes.

The best place to socialize: Šnekutis of course! And obviously for French people the Café de Paris in Vilnius.

Lithuania.

I also tell everyone not to miss such beautiful places in Vilnius like the many old churches in the Old Town and surely spend a whole day at Trakai near Vilnius.

It is a really friendly country for foreigners actually.

I really loved a festival I went to in a place or village called Varėna.

They go mushrooming there and there were lots of other nice events. I also really loved visiting the botanical gardens. It was extremely interesting for me to see so many unique flowers for the first time.

France: m o r f e Ann of poetry

My biggest disappointment: the lack of Jewish history in the country. In Vilnius one can find a lot of traces of it in the city but in Kaunas there is almost nothing. I know that the government does its best – maybe! But I think that this memory could be – without anxiety – more present. I discussed with people – Catholics – who told me that they feel ghosts in the streets.

a kind There is untry. in this co

The brightness in July is very unique in Lithuania: fresh air with warm luminosity. With a little touch of nostalgia. I was very sad last year to leave Lithuania.

USA: f m o r f s u eling o Dominic nderful fe

a wo as such air.

There w y in the possibilit

My impressions center around the people, their spirit, and their originality. That, combined with the beauty of the countryside, struck me more than anything. I know that isn't something one can write on travel posters, but it is definite, surprising,and will certainly draw me back in the future. I would have liked better road markings while driving; that is the only disappointment in 12 days, and it is an extremely minor quibble. I love Lithuania!!

Good Mood Travel Magazine

63

64

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Photo by E.Veprinceva

Good Mood Travel Magazine

65

©vidunofoto.lt

Event calendar. Summer

June

13th festival of Bistrampolis

PANEVĖŽYS dist.

Overlooking a wide valley, Bistrampolis Manor rises above the plains of Panevėžys like a daydream of a new life. For over a decade music has been played there; the story of the Manor continues. The idea to restore the 19th-century Manor began with a concert – and the ruins in a field overgrown with nettles became an important part of Lithuanian culture and home to the Bistrampolis festival, which now attracts world-famous musicians. Music, songs and dances, the ponds and park with its memory of times past, and the fields stretching into the distance all create the special atmosphere of the place. Today, everything that was lost and forgotten returns to the Manor through culture.

June – Aiugust Bistrampolis Manor, Bistrampolis St. 1, Kučių village, Panevėžys district

Senamiesčio žiogas

kaunas

Senamiesčio Žiogas is the largest festival of sung poetry in Kaunas and combines performances by bards, visual arts, and creative education workshops for young people and children. The festival consists of five events taking place between June and September. In addition to the musical performances, eco-friendly creative workshops will be held for the little ones. While parents enjoy the music, their children will be invited to make ceramic works and dreamcatchers, create feathery friends from recycled materials, and design ecotoys and Boxes of Secrets, among other creative activities.

June – September Ryšių kiemelis 837, Rotušės Sq. 20, Kaunas

66

Good Mood Travel Magazine

June Ant rubežiaus

ŠIAULIAI

A folk music festival involving Lithuanian and Latvian folk musicians and ensembles. The festival has a long tradition and welcomes everyone: from families to youngsters to seniors. Participants include original and stylized folk ensembles, and individual musicians from each ethnic region of Lithuania (Aukštaitija, Žemaitija, Suvalkija and Dzūkija). Many ensembles and solo musicians from Latvia also come to take part in the fun.

June 4-6 The pedestrian boulevard (Vilnius St.), Šiauliai

Klaipėda Castle Jazz Festival

Klaipėda

The Klaipėda Castle Jazz Festival is an annual international jazz festival that has taken place in Klaipėda on the first weekend of summer since 1994. The festival attracts the most famous musicians performing every style of jazz from all around the world. The motto of the festival – “Good music for good people” – reflects its aim; to play good music to jazz and popular music lovers of every age, musical taste, and background.

May 31 – June 8 Klaipėda

Baltic Tall Ships Regatta

Klaipėda

This year, Klaipėda will be the starting port of an exceptional maritime event, the Baltic Tall Ships Regatta 2015. The regatta takes place in a different sea every year (usually in Europe), but traditionally consists of three stages with stopovers at four ports in different countries.

June 5-8 Klaipėda, Cruise ships terminal, Danė quay

2Echoes Festival

ŠVENČIONYS dist.

With the first signs of summer, the annual 2ECHOES FESTIVAL returns on June 5. This year the festival moves to a spectacular spot near Lake Pailgio in Švenčionys district. This is more than just an adventure; this is the harmonious coexistence of music and art and body and soul in beautiful natural surroundings. Three stages for electronic music, PSY, Techno and Chill, and a wide range of performers will loosen your body and take you on a transcendental journey of sounds and echoes. During the day, you can explore your creativity in various workshops and artists’ studios, and at night, surrounded by strange lights, mysterious decorations and projections, everyone will be united by dance.

June 5-7

By Lake Pailgis, Pabradė, Švečionys district

Festival of Rusnė

Rusnė

A grandiose festival for the whole family with concerts by famous Lithuanian and foreign groups and performers, water entertainment, and Pamarys’ regional crafts. It takes place on Lithuania’s largest island.

June 7

By Rusnės bridge on the bank of Atmata, Rusnė, Šilutės district

Good Mood Travel Magazine

67

June World Oceans Day

Klaipėda

World Oceans Day was first marked in 1992. The Lithuanian Sea Museum began celebrating this day in 2003.

It is an opportunity to remind ourselves of our role in protecting the environment and the sea closest to us – the Baltic sea.

June 8 Lithuanian Sea Museum, Smiltynės St. 3, Klaipėda

Brass instrument concert series Summer of Brass

Palanga

For over a century, there has been a summertime tradition of holding brass instrument concerts in Palanga.

Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 18:30, visitors to the resort and lovers of brass music will have the opportunity to enjoy concerts of classical, popular and original brass music in Birutės Park in Palanga.

June – August Birutės Park rotunda, Palanga

Line dancing festival

Palanga

Over a thousand people from all over the world will be line dancing in J. Basanavičiaus St.

June 13 J. Basanavičiaus St., Palanga

Culture Night

Vilnius

During Culture Night, the squares, streets, parks and other unconventional places in Vilnius are filled with every possible form of art: music, dance, theatre, cinema, photography, installation art and numerous other offerings. This one-night festival began in 2007 as part of the preparations for the events of “Vilnius – European Capital of Culture 2009”. Last year, this festival of culture and art presented 167 projects by 700 Lithuanian and foreign artists, and was visited by an estimated 100-150,000 people.

June 19 Various places, Vilnius

GrainField summer festival

ŠAKIAI

This music and sports festival will take place for the first time in southwest Lithuania. The name refers to the grain fields surrounding the territory where the festival will debut. The exceptional location and energetic atmosphere will no doubt attract massive audiences and win the hearts of everyone who attends. The most famous electronic, pop, hip-hop, house and rock music performers will appear on the main stage and, for the first time in the history of Lithuanian festivals, GrainField will invite music lovers to experience a real festival with Lithuania’s best DJs in the Silent Stage tent. An active entertainment and sports zone will be set up next to the musical stages.

June 19-21 Valiuliai reservoir resort, Šakiai

15th International festival Organ Summer 2015 The only longstanding festival of professional organ music in the Curonian Spit.

June 21 – July 4 Nida’s Evangelic Lutheran Church, Pamario St. 43, Nida

68

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Nida

June RICHARD BONA: Mandekan Cubano (Summer concert series at the National Museum-Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania)

Vilnius

The famous jazz musician Richard Bona and his group are coming to Lithuania to perform in the Grand Courtyard of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. According to Billboard magazine, Richard Bona is “the hottest electric bass player since Jaco Pastorius – and the first since that past master with the potential for solo stardom”. Newsweek asked its readers to “imagine an artist with Jaco Pastorious's virtuosity, George Benson's vocal fluidity, Joao Gilberto's sense of song and harmony, all mixed up with African culture." We will soon have an opportunity to see for ourselves, when Richard Bona presents his expressive Latino programme, “Mandekan Cubano”.

June 21 National Museum-Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Cathedral Square. 4, Vilnius

Sauna – SPA festival

Palanga

A wide range of spa and sauna pleasures await visitors of this three-day long event. You will be able to enjoy saunas, whisks and try out various sauna treatments in the mobile Sauna Venue on the seashore. The SPA Venue will offer massages, facial masks, and beauty therapies, while the Scent Venue will tempt visitors with aromatherapy and the healing powers of scent. A unique feature of the festival is the introduction of the healing, purifying and beautifying effects of Baltic amber.

June 19-21 On the beach by the pier, Palanga

Klaipėda Carillon Festival

Klaipėda

Klaipėda is proud to own a unique instrument – the carillon. The pealing of bells in the city creates a special atmosphere, a colourful and original soundscape. The Carillon festival began in Klaipėda Concert Hall in 2014.

The festival combines concerts showcasing the carillon along with various other instruments.

June 24 Courtyard of the Klaipėda Clock Museum, Liepų St. 12, Klaipėda

Supynės

ŠVENČIONYS dist.

Supynės, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, is among the most important electronic music festivals in Lithuania. Taking place in a deep, mesmerizing pine forest far from urban areas, Supynės festival merges two different yet related worlds: modern electronic music and the beautiful wilderness of nature.

June 25-28 Pakretuonė, Švenčionys district

VAROM! summer fest'15

ŠVENČIONYS dist.

Loud, crazy, laid-back, sober and superb: this festival offers electronic music and art zones, lots of workshops, creative and interactive activities, dance lessons, qualified lecturers, special spaces for children and unlimited active entertainment.

June 26-28

By Lake Pailgis, Pabradė, Švenčionys district

Ten, kur Nemunas vingiuoja

BIRŠTONAS

A celebration with folk ensembles to mark the Year of Ethnic Regions.

June 27 Birštonas Culture Centre, Jaunimo St. 4, Birštonas Good Mood Travel Magazine

69

June Mud Day

DRUSKININKAI

The healing powers of mud will be used playfully and unconventionally on Mud Day: there will be competitions, wrestling and relay races, while artists will use mud to create works of art. There will even be a special ceremony for the crowning of the King and Queen of Mud. Those looking for a peaceful pastime will be able to draw with mud, try out treasure hunts in mud, or simply relax in a huge mud bath.

June 27 Druskininkai Tourism and Business Information Centre, Gardino St.3, Druskininkai

Musical Ferry

Klaipėda

It doesn’t get more romantic than this: waves softly whisper in the Curonian Lagoon, breath-taking sunsets colour the darkening port of Klaipėda, while echoes of music slowly fade away. For the 9th year running, the Musical Ferry festival invites everyone to a unique venue in the Curonian Lagoon and lovely open-air meetings with many popular Lithuanian musicians. The ferry NIDA leaves Šiaurinis ragas (The Old Ferry Terminal (Senoji Smiltynės Perkėla)) at 20:30, goes to Kiaulės nugara for a waltz, and then on to Jūros vartai to enjoy the sunset. The concerts take place on the NIDA ferry.

June – August Šiaurinis ragas (The Old Ferry Terminal), Danės St. 1, Klaipėda

Evenings in Užutrakis

trakai

An event that marks and celebrates the renaissance of Užutrakis Manor Estate, which attracts ever more music and culture lovers each year. The concerts are held on an open terrace with a view of Lake Galvės and Trakai Castle. Concerts and plays take place every Sunday.

June – July, on Sundays Užutrakis Manor Estate, Užutrakio St. 17, Trakai

STRCAMP

July

MOLĖTAI

STRCAMP is an annual DIY music and art event which takes place in an authentic former-resort between two lakes. The organisers’ aim is to showcase undiscovered bands and intoxicating live alternative music in support of the non-commercial music scene. It’s a chance to listen to live music with like-minded people in a place where you feel at home.

July 24-26 Ereliukas resort, Molėtai

Reflections on Birutės Park history

Palanga

Interactive theatre events will introduce the history of Birutės Park and Tyshkevich Palace to visitors. Starting at 18:00, visitors will be able to meet historical characters who will present the living history of the park.

July – August Birutės Park, Vytauto St. 15, Palanga

Open Air Kaunas Club music festival

July 3 Yacht Club, Kaunas

70

Good Mood Travel Magazine

kaunas

July Bliuzo naktys

Varniai

Bliuzo naktys has been attracting fans to Lake Lūkstas in Varniai for over two decades. The festival has grown significantly in recent years. This year, the festival features the unique accordionist Dwayne Dopsie from Louisiana, the long-awaited Keegan McInroe from Texas, a double decker blues bus from Latvia and performers from Lithuania offering music matured and refined by Bliuzo naktys.

July 3-4 Varniai, by Lake Lūkstas

International street theatre festival ŠERMUKŠNIS

Klaipėda

A traditional biennial street theatre festival with theatre projects and performers from various countries.

The festival presents contemporary theatre and aims to promote cooperation between various cultures and cultural institutions.

July 3-6 Castle site, Klaipėda

International art festival

DRUSKININKAI

A traditional art festival that hosts over 50 events involving professional art, classical music concerts, exhibitions, and literary evenings for locals and visitors.

July 5 – September 22 Various locations, Druskininkai

Kražiai festival

KELMĖ dist.

Aiming to create harmony between traditional and modern culture and offering a wide range of musical styles and genres, Kražiai festival attracts professional artists from numerous fields. Now in its 10th year despite the growing number of other festivals in Lithuania, Kražiai festival remains a favourite thanks to its faithful audiences and guests.

July 6 – August 16 Kražiai, Kolegijos St. 5, Kelmė district

Žagarė Cherry Festival

JONIŠKIS dist.

The annual Žagarė Cherry Festival takes place on the third weekend of July (when the cherries are ripe) in Žagarė, a town famous for its natural and cultural heritage, its horses, and its cherries. The festival includes attractions such as a market, concerts, exhibitions, show jumping, football matches, amusement parks, competitions, cherry jam preparation and much more.

July 9 – 12 Žagarė, Joniškis district

APOCALYPTICA Shadowmaker Tour (Summer concert series at the National Museum-Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania)

Vilnius

The charismatic cello metal quartet is to perform in Lithuania once more. This time, the group’s fans will have a chance to enjoy their eighth studio album, Shadowmaker, which was released in April.

July 9 The National Museum-Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Cathedral Square 4, Vilnius

Good Mood Travel Magazine

71

Lempafest

July

TRAKAI dist.

The festival’s idea certainly stands out – Lempafest is a three-day long getaway without alcohol. Young people are invited to relax, experience music and share their views and opinions. The festivalgoers enjoy various kinds of music, sports events, art, music and dance classes, exercise and bathing, as well as lectures and discussions on a wide range of topics.

July 10-12 Bijūnai, Aukštadvaris, Trakai district

M.K. Čiurlionis Music Festival

Palanga

Classical music lovers are invited once again to the M.K.Čiurlionis Music Festival in Palanga. Various events with new and exciting programmes arranged exclusively for the festival will be performed by bright new talents and foreign performers in various locations around the resort.

July 11-16 Amber Museum, Vytauto St. 17, Palanga

Tundra

ZARASŲ dist.

Tudra is an electronic music festival. The 12th TUNDRA is aiming to raise the bar: visitors will be invited to enjoy a powerful new stage that embraces and connects various styles of music, the PSY stage that never sleeps, the magical CHILL area, the Harmony&Healing zone and various activities.

July 16-19 Zarasų district (the exact location will be announced later on)

Devilstone

ANYKŠČIAI

Extreme music and rock & roll are two things that can only be truly experienced at the Devilstone festival.

The festival is dedicated to contemporary rock and offers a whole spectrum of alternative music.

July 16-19 Dainuva valley, Anykščiai

Lagoon Region Fisherman’s Holiday

JUODKRANTĖ

A fair of folk art, crafts, ethnic and culinary heritage. Educational activities, lectures, concerts and sports events are also on the program.

July 18-19 Territory near L.Rėzos St. 1, Juodkrantė

Galapagai

ZARASAI

Galapagai is a music and entertainment festival that invites everyone who loves live music and a good time to an island in Lake Zarasas. The festival pulsates with good-naturedness and unrestrained emotions, inspired by music from every genre.

July 24-25 Zarasas lake island, Zarasai

Roko naktys

ZARASAI

This two-day event has already become an international phenomenon in the Central European alternative music scene. Thanks to its dedicated organisers, the festival is quickly growing and now attracts lots of prominent rock musicians.

July 31 – August 1 Zarasas lake island, Zarasai

72

Good Mood Travel Magazine

Nida Jazz Marathon

July

NIDA

Since 2001, Nida has been a major focal point for jazz every summer. World-famous jazz musicians all gather here to rediscover and reinvent their own personal experiences and the music of the world, and do it with passionate dedication in every chord. The port of Nida is a spectacular location where the audience is surrounded by a lagoon on three sides. It feels like being on a ship, rocking on the sound waves – that’s the magic the world-famous performers and Lithuanian jazz celebrities create.

July 30 – August 1 Port territory, Nida

Granatos Live

RUMŠIŠKĖS

A three-day fiesta of music and entertainment for everyone who believes high quality music, spectacular nature and idyllic surroundings are a must for festivals.

July 31 – August 2 Open Air Museum of Lithuania, Rumšiškės

Sea Festival

Klaipėda

The Sea Festival is an annual (since 1934) festival in Klaipėda, which takes place on the last weekend of July.

The Sea Festival is packed with entertainment, culture and sports events. During the festival, there will be concerts, performances and plays all over Klaipėda. The hottest event this summer invites you to the FIESTA IN THE CITY OF WHITE SAILS.

July 24-26 Sea Festival, Klaipėda

Classical music concert series “Night Serenades”

Palanga

August

Chamber orchestra concerts in one of the loveliest seaside spots, Birutės Park in Palanga, on the south terrace of the Amber Museum. This is an event that conjures a unique atmosphere, uniting both audience and performers.

August 4, 5, 6, 8 Terrace of the Amber Museum, Vytauto St. 17, Palanga

Musical August at the Seaside

NIDA&Juodkrantė

15th international festival of symphonic music and opera

August 5, 14 Neringa The outdoor stage of Liudvikas Rėza culture centre, Juodkrantė & Nida Culture and Tourism Information Center, Nida

Rafta

NIDA

A festival in the Curonian Lagoon, Lithuania’s unique floating festival RAFTA has one foot on land this year (at Nida airport). The electronic and acoustic music festival will be reachable by any water transport. The stage will be clearly visible from the lagoon, and with a high quality of sound guaranteed, you will be able to enjoy the music for free in your ship, yacht or raft. This year, an exhibition of water transport will take place on the Rafta runway.

August 7-9 Nida airport, Neringa Good Mood Travel Magazine

73

August International Blacksmiths Plein-air KETURI VĖJAI

Klaipėda

The international blacksmiths’ plein-air KETURI VĖJAI was first held in 2007. The plein-air focuses on the art, equipment and technology of the blacksmith trade, and gives people the chance to meet blacksmiths from various countries. Participants work together to make something, which later becomes a public art object in Klaipėda.

August 7-9 The Castle site or Cruise ships terminal, Klaipėda

Stebuklas

trakai

A dance night in Trakai castle. An event for electronic and dance music lovers.

August 8 Trakai castle, Trakai

Fisherman’s feast

ŠVENTOJI

During this celebration, a crafts fair is set up near the port in the town of Šventoji where visitors are entertained by musical ensemble performances, sports and fishermen competitions.

August 8 Šventoji

Days of Ancient Cratfs

NIDA

A traditional festival in Neringa that takes you back to times past to discover ancient Lithuanian traditions and archaic crafts. Strolling along Nida quay, you will be able see how amber amulets and linden buckets were once made, how they used to bake bread on hot stones and make pots and birch bark utensils by hand.

Jewellers will make medieval ornaments, bronze and tin artefacts.

August 14-15 Port territory, Fisherman’s Ethnographic Homestead (Naglių St.4), Nida

Karklė Live Music Beach

KLAIPĖDA dist.

Karklė Live Music Beach is a music and art festival that takes place in Lithuania on a beach surrounded by spectacular sand dunes. The festival offers a wide range of fresh and captivating acts for fans of different music styles. World-renowned musicians, romantic magicians on the Dune stage, a powerful team of DJs in the electronic music tent, rock and underground musicians – everyone shares the same sky in Karklė.

August 14-16 Karklė village, Klaipėda district

GAIA Gathering

ŠALČININKAI dist.

The GAIA Gathering is an esoteric musical gathering. The Gathering harnesses everything that comes from the soul through dancing, music, words, creation, synchronization, and is bound by conceivable and inconceivable ties with the Earth, Nature, Life and each of us. Celebrating love and simplicity, the gathering takes place in a glorious Lithuanian forest. It is organized purely for the love of the idea and with the aim of enlightening people.

August 14-17 Nevainioniai forest, by the river Šalčia, Žygimantiškės, Šalčininkai district

74

Good Mood Travel Magazine

August Plartforma International Festival of Contemporary Art

Klaipėda

The international visual and performing arts festival PLArTFORMA has been going since 2005. The mission of the festival is to combine the artistic experience and creative potential of different regions and countries. The participants include artists and artist groups from the fields of contemporary dance and theatre, multimedia art and painting, contemporary circus and cinema.

August 15-16 Locations in Old Castle Port, Castle site and Old Town, Klaipėda

Visagino Country

VISAGINAS

Visagino Country was first held in 1991. One of the largest country music festivals in Eastern Europe, Visagino Country takes place in mid-August in the town of Visaginas, which is situated on the bank of a picturesque lake. Lithuanian and foreign musicians play all kinds of country: country rock, folk country, rockabilly, blue grass etc. Over the years, the festival has been visited by musicians from all over the world.

August 21-23 Visaginas

Days of Ancient Crafts

trakai

The Days of Ancient Crafts will take place for the tenth time in Trakai Island Castle. Professional craftsmen and enthusiasts recreate historic craftsmanship and demonstrate up to twenty crafts. Visitors will be able to meet historical characters, watch music performances and witness knights doing battle.

August 22–23 Trakai Island Castle, Trakai

Mėnuo Juodaragis

ZARASAI

The 18th annual independent festival of post-folk alternative music and contemporary Baltic culture MĖNUO JUODARAGIS is calling all tribes to our beloved Zarasai on the last weekend of summer for three magical days of original music, ancient crafts, rites, land-art, workshops, lectures, great friends and beautiful nature.

August 28-30 Didžioji Island, Lake Zarasas, Zarasai

Loftas Fest

Vilnius

Loftas is often described by foreigners as Vilnius’s “Best kept secret”. Now in its fourth year, the festival devoted to cutting-edge contemporary music invites dedicated music lovers and all those seeking new urban experiences for a weekend in the Loftas yard.

August 28-30 Švitrigailos St. 29, Art Factory Loftas yard and surrounding lofts, Vilnius

The Colour Run Vilnius

Vilnius

The Colour Run, also known as the Happiest 5K on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness and individuality. Now the single largest event series in the world, The Color Run hosts more than 300 events in over 50 countries. Colourful and filled with good emotions, the event has reached Lithuania!

August 30 Various locations, Vilnius

Good Mood Travel Magazine

75