What to do in Vilnius in May 2026?

Blog created at Last updated May 6, 2026

This May, Vilnius is bustling with lots of events to enjoy. It’s also very musical! There are so many concerts to choose from, we don’t know if we’ll have any time to sleep. Ah, and let’s make sure to reserve some time to explore the charming Vilnius Old Town as well, with our newest tours. Need help planning? We've got you covered with our top picks for events in Vilnius

European Night of Museums in Vilnius

Every year, museums across Europe open their doors to visitors at unconventional hours, aiming to engage with communities and involve them in museum activities. However, it's important to note that museums in Vilnius do not operate overnight. Many of them are open until 9 PM or, at the latest, 10 PM. Nonetheless, you can definitely expect special events and activities. 

Where? Museums in Vilnius

When? May 23th

museum night in vilnius 2025 valdovu rumaiSilent disco at Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

Music is in the air!

Since there are numerous music festivals happening in Vilnius in May, it would take us another blog post just to cover all of them. Instead, here we'll list them all in one place with dates and music genres, allowing you to decide which one is right for you.

Vilnius Spring Festival 2025

It's new and dynamic event inviting Vilnius residents and visitors alike to discover unique artistic experiences. This year’s festival theme is Nordic music. The program highlights the aesthetics of Scandinavian sound, the emotional depth of the North, and the fusion of folk traditions with contemporary expression. The festival’s concerts take place on the right bank of the Neris River, at the National Gallery of Art, highlighting the cultural potential of Vilnius’ new city center.

Where? the National Gallery of Art

When? May 7th, 14th, 21nd and 28th.

How much? 30-50 € 

More info:  springfestival.lt 

musicians playing classical music instruments streetVilnius Street Music day. Vilnius with Locals photo

Street Music Day (SMD)!

The idea is simple – every year, hundreds of musicians become street musicians for a day and fill all corners, parks and streets of Lithuanian towns with music. Everyone can participate – professionals, amateurs and beginners.

Where? All over the Vilnius city center, but the Old Town is the busiest 

When? May 16th

How much?  Free to attend

More info: gmd.lt 

Vilnius Mama Jazz

The festival annually presents the most renowned jazz musicians from all over the world and nurtures the culture and traditions of Lithuanian jazz.

Where? Lithuanian National Drama Theatre

When? May 22nd to 24th

How much?  from 25.00 € 

More info: vilniusmamajazz.lt 

Skamba skamba kankliai

The international folklore festival Skamba skamba kankliai has been held in Vilnius since 1973 and is one of the few authentic ethnic music festivals in Europe.

Where? All over the Vilnius Old Town

When? May 26th to 31st

How much?  Most of the concerts are free to attend

More info: www.ssk.lt/en

men dressed in folk costumes vilnius old townSkamba Skamba Kankliai participants having a break. Vilnius with Locals photo

Uptown Market

market design vilnius mayPoster by the organisers

 It's a vibrant urban fair marking the start of the season, where style, taste, music, and people come together. This year, the market will be even more alive and louder, as it coincides with the opening of the LOFTO KIEMAS terrace, bringing an extra wave of summer atmosphere. Throughout the weekend, we’ll create a full experience for you – from daytime picnics and DJ sets to evening open-air concerts.

Where? LOFTAS

When? May 15th to 17th

More info: Facebook page

Lithuanian beer festival

beer alus festival lithuanian may vilnius kalnu parkas summer Poster by organisers

The only beer festival that unites practically all Lithuanian beer producers. From the smallest brewery in the tiny village to a large one in a big city. 2 great days to get to know 17 breweries from all over Lithuanian. There is no other event that let you taste so many Lithuanian drinks and talk to people from the colourful world of Lithuanian beer. The Lithuanian beer festival unites everyone who comes not only to taste the drinks, but also to try out awesome food, spend a good time in a great city park.

Where? "Kalnų" park stage

When? May 22-23th  

How much?  From 10 EUR

More info: alausfestivalis.lt

Vilnius Pink Soup Fest

poster pink pink pink vilnius 2026Poster by Go Vilnius

The Vilnius Pink Soup Fest is back! And bigger than ever! This festival celebrates our national culinary gem – šaltibarščiai, also known as Pink Soup – as we kick off the summer season in a perfectly pink Vilnius. Join locals for a free event full of pink-themed fun and entertainment. Let’s come together and show the world that for Lithuanians, šaltibarščiai is more than just soup – it’s a passion!

NB! Every visitor is invited to get creative and dress up in bold, eye-catching Pink Soup inspired costumes – the best looks win prizes.

Where? All over the Vilnius Old Town

When? May 29th to 31st

How much?  Free

More info: www.govilnius.lt/pink-soup-fest

Join our tours! 

From exploring the Cathedral Crypts to discovering the Open Gallery in the New Town, we'll be taking about 10,000 steps across beautiful Vilnius every single day! 

So don't hesitate to join us.

Vilnius Old Town tour with snacks | When? Tue, Thu & Sat 10AM | How much? 25 €/person if you buy ticket on our website

Cathedral Crypts and Medieval History Tour | When? Mon & Fri 14:30 | How much? 30 €/person if you buy ticket on our website

Vilnius: From ‘90 to now | When? Wed, Fri, Sat & Sun 3PM | How much? Pay what you want.

But don’t forget we have our long-running and much-loved historical tours: Soviet Vilnius and Jewish Vilnius as well as the traditional Vilnius Free Walking Tour (Old Town & Užupis)!

guides celebrating pink soup festOur guide Ieva celebrating Pink Soup Festival. Vilnius with Locals photo.

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.