New Year’s Celebrations and Christmas Events in Vilnius
The Christmas holidays begin on December 25, and Vilnius is busier with tourists during this period than at any other time. The lights in Town Hall Square and Cathedral Square were switched on at the beginning of December, while the tallest Christmas tree, at the TV Tower, will be illuminated on December 25. Several specialist design studios have worked on the city’s lighting, having decorated Vilnius for the New Year for 11 years. This year, they have proposed the latest and most modern decorations, which are also energy-efficient. As for events, apart from those taking place on New Year’s Eve, residents and visitors to the capital can attend the following events:
Die Neujahrsfeste und weihnachtlichen Maßnahmen in Vilnius
Date: 24/12/2008
December 6–28. The so-called “Christmas Bus” will be running, aiming to lift the spirits of residents even in the city’s most remote districts.
December 20 to January 4. A series of free concerts will be held in Vilnius churches. Audiences can enjoy classical and sacred music. One of the main organizers of these concerts is opera singer Sigute Trimakajte. The concerts will take place:
December 26. The Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Mother of God, the Church of the Discovery of the Cross, the Church of Christ, and the Church of St. John (for people with hearing impairments). December 28. The Church of St. Teresa, the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of St. Raphael, the Bernardine Church, and the Church of St. John (for people with visual impairments).
January 3. The Church of the Holy Cross (Bonifraters).
January 4 – at the Cathedral.
December 21–28. The “Gift Bank” initiative will be held in Town Hall Square. Its aim is to help people give gifts in an original way. Simply bring your gift to Town Hall Square and contact the organizers, who will get in touch with the recipient, invite them to the square, and present the gift.
December 24, 10:00 p.m. The nativity scenes will be blessed in Town Hall Square.
December 25 at 4:00 p.m. The lights on the country’s main Christmas tree, at the TV Tower, will be switched on. December 26 at 7:30 p.m. The Christmas concert begins in Town Hall Square.
January 6 at 4:30 p.m. The procession of the Three Wise Men will begin in Town Hall Square.
Photo: www.kurier.lt
