This year, the Republic of Užupis will mark the 26th anniversary of its independence! As big fans of this self-proclaimed country, we are very excited about the upcoming celebrations. However, sometimes people from outside the Republic feel hesitant to join the fun. They are not sure if they are welcome and what protocol they should be aware of. So, in this article, let us explain everything there is to know about the Independence Day of Užupis: the history, traditions, main highlights, and events this year.
The history
In 1998, residents from one of Vilnius' poorest districts declared the Republic of Užupis, complete with its own flag, currency, president, cabinet of ministers, and a constitution written by local artists and residents Romas Lileikis and Tomas Čepaitis. This proclamation was unveiled on a wall in one of Užupis' main streets on April 1st, 1998. The choice of April 1st (April Fools’ Day) for Užupis Day may not be coincidental, underlining the value of humor and the insignificance of "serious" political decisions.
Since then, several significant events have taken place on April first: In 2000, officials of Užupis and the Republic of Lithuania introduced border control for the first time, regulating crossings between the Republic of Užupis and Lithuania. In 2002, a statue of the archangel Gabriel blowing a trumpet was unveiled in the main square, symbolizing the revival and artistic freedom of Eastern Europe.In 2007, the bridge near Vilnius Academy of Arts in Užupis was christened Fluxus Bridge, and in 2010, the neglected footpath leading to Art Academy was named the Jonas Mekas Draft.
Užupis square with an egg statue circa 2001. Photo by Republic of Uzupis https://www.facebook.com/uzupis
In the last 25 years, the constitution has been translated into more than 50 languages, with each translation adding a new plaque to the same wall. Additionally, over three hundred ambassadors have been sworn in across various countries and territories, thereby establishing a new practice of open relations between people. As local Užupians state, the creation of the Republic of Užupis was a gift to both Lithuania and the world. As a cultural, artistic, civic, and social movement that is constantly changing, developing, and improving, it serves as a source of inspiration for creators and an open space for everyone.
Everyone is welcome!
As the motto of the Republic states: we have learned not to be smart, not rich, not happy- we have learned to be together. After all, Užupis is so small that there's space for everyone. For over twenty-five years, we've witnessed the flourishing of the Republic of Užupis, thanks to the dedication of people from around the world. Therefore, it doesn't matter where you come from—here, you belong. Don't hesitate to join the festivities; not only will you meet many interesting people, but you'll also have the opportunity to take part in numerous exciting events and artistic happenings.
Feel inspired to become a citizen - just say so! There is no institution in the Republic of Užupis granting or depriving citizens of citizenship. This decision is made by everyone who says "I am a citizen of the Republic of Užupis" with a loud voice. Want a passport or ID card? You are the only one so your document will be unique. Draw it yourself! The one who makes the decision – is the one who issues the document! Every citizen of the Republic of Užupis must visit Užupis at least once in their lifetime. Just don’t forget that in the Republic of Užupis, the palms of the citizens are open and coincide with the state emblem.
Now to become an ambassador is a bit trickier, but everything is possible. To find out more check out our blog post on how to become an ambassador of Užupis.
Užupis independence day parade in 2023. Photo by Republic of Uzupis https://www.facebook.com/uzupis
Traditions
Bright and early on April 1st, border controls are established on all bridges entering Užupis, signaling the commencement of Užupis Independence Day celebrations. Be sure to cross the border and head to the other side to receive an official visa stamp. Don't fret if you've forgotten your passport; your smile is the best proof of your intentions. Plus, many of the "officers" are students from Užupis Gymnasium, thrilled to be part of the festivities!
Užupis border control on April 1st, 2015 Photo by Republic of Uzupis https://www.facebook.com/uzupis
While crossing the bridge, check the waters below. You might see the officials of the Republic splashing in the cold waters of the Vilnele River. It is common knowledge that one must be clean in both body and soul to celebrate freedom and creativity! If you agree, don’t hesitate to join this chilly tradition.
Then head to the Border Control office (Užupio str. 1) or the Parliamentary headquarters at Užupis cafe (Užupio str. 2) to exchange your money for the local currency - EuroUžas. Unlimited circulation within the country's territory only occurs for 24 hours or longer, as determined by the Užupis Central Bank. Did you know that EuroUžas is the most stable currency in the world? It's also the only currency redeemable for beer!
Local currency - EuroUžas. Photo by Užupis Central Bank uzupiorespublika.com
Every year, in celebration of Independence Day, the most esteemed Užupean of that year is declared an Honorary Citizen of the Republic of Užupis. They receive the honor of cutting a hole in the flag that flies on the country’s main pole in Užupis Independence Square. This symbolic act, with the hole in the palm, represents the idea that Užupis cannot be claimed or appropriated by anyone.
The final tradition is not an annual occurrence; in fact, most of our guides have never witnessed it. Nevertheless, we still enjoy recounting the tales of a magical water tap in Užupis Square, where free beer flows on April 1st. Despite only happening a handful of times, locals and visitors from Vilnius still gather in the square every year, hoping to catch a whiff of the magical drink, blessed by the Angel himself!
Main Events in 2024
The theme of this year's celebrations is "WHITE TABLECLOTHS DAY"! After all, April 1st falls on the second day of Easter. In the Užupis calendar, it's an important day when the entire community gathers on the terrace of Užupis Cafe-Parliament to share food, discuss art, and engage in conversations about life. This year, we celebrate the spirit of sharing and togetherness.
PROGRAM
11 AM Introduction of the Užupis border control regime – Border Station at Užupio str. 1
11:05 AM Laying of the white tablecloths and the start of the feast at Užupis Cafe terraces and Angel Square
NOON to 4 PM exhibition "Education" by Rasa Jundulaitė - UMI Galera Užupio str. 2A
2 PM the Open Championship of Užupis Fool card game – Pub Devinkė Užupio str. 4
4 PM Opening of the art installations and photography exhibition "To the Left" by Julija Janus and Petras Saulėnas - AP Gallery Užupio str. 24
4:30 PM Start of the traditional Parade of Happiness - Užupis Gymnasium Krivių str. 10
4:35 PM Ceremony of changing the flag of the Republic of Užupis at the main flagpole of the country.
5 PM Klezmer Orchestra Gala Concert on the square – Pub Špunka Užupio str. 9
6 PM Kotryna and Petras - sonopathic performance "Ode to Joy" - Astrogema Paupio str. 2
7 PM Kardamona – Disco Cabaret, Aušrinė Juodeškaitė's creative concert – Astrogema Paupio str. 2
8:30 PM Start of the festive concert, Bluesholics and all the voices of the year - Užupis Cafe
Užupis independence day parade in 2023. Photo by Republic of Uzupis https://www.facebook.com/uzupis
Busy on April 1st?
Don't worry! Užupis is one of the highlights of our free tours! Join us as our passionate guides unveil all the secrets of this amazing Republic! We promise to show you the finest sights in Vilnius and share plenty of entertaining stories.
And soon, we will debut our very own Užupis Free Walking Tour! It will take you off the beaten track to explore lesser-known corners and hidden art, from captivating murals to intriguing sculptures. We'll visit Independence Square and with a bit of luck, encounter the famous Užupis cats. Moreover, Užupis Free Walking Tour will extend beyond the borders of Užupis as we explore its younger brother, the Paupys neighborhood, and ascend to the enchanting Bernardine Cemetery. Locals say that the picturesque paths have inspired numerous local and visiting artists over the years.
Find out more out it: Click here!
We can't wait to meet you!