Annual Events & Festivals
Major Festivals
- Užupis Day (April 1st): The self-declared Artists' Republic celebrates its 'independence day' with parades, concerts, art exhibitions, and general bohemian festivities. Visitors receive 'passport stamps'. Wonderfully quirky celebration of creativity and freedom.
- Vilnius Festival (May-June): Classical music festival featuring international orchestras and performers in historic venues. High-quality concerts in churches, theaters, and outdoor spaces.
- Midsummer (June 23-24, Joninės/St. John's Day): Ancient pagan celebration of summer solstice with bonfires, flower wreaths, traditional songs, and overnight festivities. Many locals head to countryside, but events occur in Vilnius parks.
- Vilnius City Fiesta (July): Three-day street festival with music stages, food vendors, craft markets, and performances throughout Old Town. Celebrates city's birthday with vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Kernavė Medieval Festival (early July): Day trip destination hosts Lithuania's largest medieval reenactment with jousting, crafts, historical camps, and period costumes. Highly popular family event.
- Christopher Summer Festival (July-August): Classical and contemporary music festival with concerts in unique venues including courtyards, churches, and open-air spaces.
- Vilnius Book Fair (February): Major literary event featuring Lithuanian and international authors, publishers, readings, and book launches. Important cultural gathering.
- Vilnius Jazz Festival (October): Week-long jazz festival bringing international and local artists to various venues. High-quality performances showcasing jazz diversity.
- Christmas Markets (December-January): Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square transform with festive markets selling crafts, food, mulled wine, and gifts. Ice skating, concerts, and holiday atmosphere. Runs late November through early January.
- New Year's Eve: Major celebration at Cathedral Square with concerts, fireworks, and festivities. Thousands gather to welcome the new year with music and celebration.
National Holidays (Expect Closures)
- January 1 - New Year's Day
- February 16 - Restoration of the State Day (Independence Day 1918)
- March 11 - Restoration of Independence Day (1990 from Soviet Union)
- Easter Monday (moveable)
- May 1 - Labor Day
- First Sunday of May - Mother's Day
- June 24 - St. John's Day (Midsummer)
- July 6 - Statehood Day
- August 15 - Assumption Day
- November 1 - All Saints' Day
- December 24-26 - Christmas
European Green Capital 2025: Throughout 2025, expect special sustainability events, green initiatives exhibitions, environmental conferences, and themed activities celebrating Vilnius' commitment to environmental leadership.