As with all large cities, Vilnius does not lack for interesting events all year round. There are various cultural events, festivals and celebrations taking place either in the open air, in halls or in non-traditional venues. Below is information on some of the major city events each year.
Kaziuko mugė (Saint Casimir’s Fair). Spring traditionally begins in Vilnius with a festival in honour of the city’s patron, Saint Casimir, which features a craftsmen’s fair and entertainment events, the origins of which date back to the beginning of the 17th century. Saint Casimir’s Fair goes on for several days, and in the past decade it has expanded to include events all over the central part of the city.
Vilnius Book Fair. At the end of February there is a major Book Fair event at the Litexpo exhibition centre and there are sales of books published in Lithuania taking place at book shops and cultural spaces around Vilnius, as well as opportunities to meet famous authors from all around the world.
Spring Film Festival. At the end of March and the beginning of April there is an international film festival, during which a few Vilnius cinemas show the latest films produced in Lithuania and around the world, and meetings with creative groups are organised.
Spring Poetry Festival. In May there is an international poetry festival. During this festival Lithuanian poets and some from abroad read their creations in various public spaces, and there are open discussions. At the end of the Festival, laureates are proclaimed and a Spring Poetry Festival Almanac is published.
Skamba skamba kankliai. This is an international folklore music festival, one of the largest in the Baltic region. The festival takes place at the end of May. During this festival, folklore song and dance groups from all over Europe come to Vilnius.
Vilnius Festival. This annual festival of classical music occurs each June, for the whole month. Concert halls and churches echo to the sound of classical music from various centuries, performed by musicians of the highest calibre from all over the world.
Christopher’s Summer Festival. This is not just a music festival, but also a festival of carnivals, fairs and fireworks, extending right through July and August. All sorts of music can be heard, from ancient music to electronic, from ethnic to experimental.
Capital Days. Perhaps the biggest Vilnius festival, the events of which fill up the city for several days at the end of August and the beginning of September. Here you will see and hear modern pop groups, street theatre spectacles, film reviews, acrobatic performances, improvised performances. This open festival traditionally takes place in Gedimino Prospect, Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square, Vingio Park and the courtyard of the Vilnius Teachers’ House.
Vilnius Jazz. This jazz festival now has a tradition of 20 years’ standing and a very high reputation for attracting performers of the highest calibre on the international jazz scene. It is organised in the middle of October. International jazz critics call this festival an event that sets new directions in jazz.
Vilnius is becoming well known for its rich cultural life. Every week a variety of cultural events are taking place: discerning culture lovers will find something on the long list of events to suit their tastes.