Pažaislis Music Festival (May-September): Lithuania's most prestigious classical music festival held in the stunning Baroque Pažaislis Monastery. International orchestras, renowned soloists, and chamber ensembles perform in the monastery's acoustically perfect spaces. Weekend concerts throughout summer.
Kaunas Jazz Festival (April): One of Europe's longest-running jazz festivals since 1991. International and Lithuanian jazz musicians perform across multiple venues in the city center. Four days of concerts, jam sessions, and workshops.
Operetta Festival (May-June): Celebration of operetta and musical theater at Kaunas State Musical Theatre. Performances by Lithuanian and international companies.
Kaunas City Birthday (May 20): City-wide celebrations with concerts, street performances, markets, historical reenactments, and fireworks. Free events throughout the Old Town and Laisvės Alėja.
Midsummer Night (June 23-24 / Joninės): Traditional Lithuanian pagan celebration with bonfires, folk songs, flower wreaths, and rituals. Events at Rumšiškės Open-Air Museum and various locations around Kaunas.
Street Music Day (May): Musicians perform on streets throughout the city creating a festive atmosphere. Completely free, spontaneous performances everywhere.
Kaunas Hanseatic Days (June, biennial): Medieval festival celebrating Kaunas' Hanseatic League heritage. Period costumes, medieval market, crafts demonstrations, performances, and historical reenactments in Old Town.
Castle Jazz Festival (June-July): Jazz concerts held in the atmospheric courtyard of Kaunas Castle. Intimate performances under the stars.
Rivers Festival (July): Celebration of Nemunas and Neris rivers with concerts, water activities, boat races, and entertainment along the riverbanks.
Kaunas Film Days (Scanovian Summer) (August): Nordic film festival showcasing Scandinavian cinema. Outdoor screenings and indoor premieres.
Kaunas International Film Festival (October-November): Major film event featuring international competition, retrospectives, and special programs.
Christmas Market (December): Festive market on Town Hall Square with handcrafted gifts, traditional foods, hot drinks, entertainment, and magical decorations. Laisvės Alėja illuminated with thousands of lights.
Užgavėnės (Shrove Tuesday, February): Traditional carnival before Lent with pancakes, costumes, masks, and the burning of a winter effigy. Folk celebrations at Rumšiškės Museum.
Note: Many shops and attractions close on national holidays. Plan accordingly.
Throughout 2022-2023, Kaunas served as European Capital of Culture, leaving a legacy of enhanced cultural programming, restored venues, and increased international attention. The cultural scene remains vibrant with ongoing festivals, exhibitions, and performances.