April is going to be a busy month! As spring arrives, Vilnius will be full of cultural events, festivals and things to do indoors and outdoors too. So, mark your calendars and get ready to explore the best that Vilnius has to offer this April!
Užupis Independence day
Photo by Republic of Užupis
This year, the Republic of Užupis is getting ready to celebrate its 28th year of independence on April 1st! We've prepared an article detailing the Independence Day of Užupis, covering its history, traditions, and main highlights. Be sure to give it a read!
Program
10 AM Traditional festive bathing in the Vilnelė River, connecting its banks with the Užupis Republic flag – near Užupio Kavinė and Užupis Bridge
From 10 AM Traditional festive border and customs opening – on Užupis Bridge
From 4 PM Opening of the exhibition “Užupio Aristocrats” (manipulations and tricks by Algimantas Lekevičius), followed by the closing of the exhibition at 7PM and distribution of the exhibits.
6 PM Traditional festive parade with horses and costumes – starting from Užupis Gymnasium
6.30 PM Festive gathering at Angel Square
We will update the list of events closer to the date.
Where? Republic of Užupis
When? April 1st all day
How much? Free to attend
Physics faculty days
Photo by Aleksandras Trakas
Known as FiDi by locals, it's one of the biggest student festivals in the city. Don’t be startled if on April 5th you see a huge dinosaur named Dinas outside your window - it means the traditional parade has just started! Students, alumni, and all science geeks will march through Gediminas Avenue to the Faculty of Philology of Vilnius University. Wait, Philology, not the physics faculty? Locals will explain to you that this is the only time of year when physics students, usually boys, have enough courage to ask philologists, usually girls, out on a date. Of course, this is an old stereotype. There are many women in STEM in Lithuania and many men in philology, and you will definitely see that reflected in the parade. But Gediminas Avenue is a good place to have a parade - so why not. So join Dinas, that giant dinosaur, and witness vintage cars, the Lithuanian Police Representative Brass Orchestra, liquid nitrogen, an endless sea of flags, a bunch of chanting Fidists, and much more.
Where? Gediminas av.
When? April 18 th, 3PM
How much? Free to attend
Craft fair at Sodas2123
Photo from Sodas2123 facebook page
Among the spring blooms, on April 25, a handmade craft fair will take place at the cultural complex Sodas2123. On the stalls, you will find interesting artworks, prints, plants, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, tasty treats, and many other delightful discoveries. It's also a great chance to meet and greet some of the artists, creators and organisations that are residing in this self-governing community-based space, operated and curated by the Lithuanian Interdisciplinary Artists’ Association.
Where? Sodas2123 (Vitebsko st. 23)
When? April 25th from Noon to 7PM
How much? Entry is free and open to everyone. NB! not all vendors accept card payments, so it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you.
New Baltic Dance Festival
Photo: Tuvumi / Artist duo IevaKrish (Latvia) – OBLICUS
New Baltic Dance is the largest event of its kind in the Baltic states. Each year, the festival is attended by more than 7,000 spectators. For three decades, New Baltic Dance has pursued the same mission – to continually question where the cutting edge of dance lies today, how the body transcends boundaries, and what art forms are needed for the present moment. And this year the festival presents choreographers who not only create aesthetically striking works, but also boldly reflect on social, political, and cultural processes. Come if you never tire of asking: what comes next?
Where? Various locations
When? Till April 29th
How much? Depends on the event
More info: newbalticdance.lt/en/programme/
New season!
Photo by Vilnius with Locals
This year, we expect great weather throughout April (yes, very optimistic), so we’re starting our summer season early. From April 1st you can join as many tours as you like - no need to choose just one! Just remember to wear comfortable shoes.
And what about Easter? We will take a break on Easter Sunday, so there will be no tours on April 5.
More info: www.vilniuswithlocals.com
None of these events are your cup of tea? Then, check out www.vilnius-events.lt for more ideas on what to do in Vilnius!
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. We hope it has been a helpful guide in planning your visit to our beautiful city.