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Lithuanian Song Festival 2024, or “Dainų Šventė 100” in the Lithuanian language, Celebrating a Century of Song and Tradition in Lithuania! The festival is celebrated every four years and this year marked 100 years of celebration. If you’ve never seen Lithuanians dance and celebrate, you’ll definitely want to read on . . . and watch!
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Dainų Šventė 2024 Festival Outline
- >>>DAY 1: June 29, 2024 – Opening Ceremony
- >>>DAY 2: June 30, 2024 – Choral Concerts
- >>>DAY 3: July 1, 2024 – Folk Dance Day
- >>>DAY 4: July 2, 2024 – Youth Day
- >>>DAY 5: July 3, 2024 – Cultural Heritage Day
- >>>DAY 6: July 4, 2024 – International Day
- >>>DAY 7: July 5, 2024 – Mass Choir Day
- >>>Day 8: July 6, 2024 – Closing Ceremony
- Social Media and Online Resources
- Lithuanian Language Resources
- Conclusion
Introduction
Lithuania’s Dainų Šventė, or Song Festival (daina is ‘song,’ šventė is like ‘a holiday’), is a monumental cultural event celebrating the nation’s rich heritage of choral music and traditional dance. As it reaches its centennial milestone, Dainų Šventė 100 stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Lithuanian culture and language.
This article delves into the history, significance, and highlights of this extraordinary festival, offering a glimpse into what makes it a unique and cherished tradition.
The 100th anniversary of the festival ran from June 29 – July 06, 2024 and the title of the 2024 Programme was “May the Green Forest Grow.” The Lithuanian Song Festival always culminates on July 6th, its Founder’s Day!
Read the Family History Foundation article below to find out the connection to Lithuania’s Founder’s Day, some say its true Independence Day!
Below is the list of festival events which took place during each day/night of the 2024 Dainų Šventė Song Festival. There were many more impromptu village and other city celebrations around the country! It was fun seeing so many social media posts of families and people celebrating their own unique regional dances and songs along roadsides or in town squares to coincide with and celebrate the Dainų Šventė Lithuanian Song Festival 2024, it’s quite inspirational!
Below is the list of scheduled national events which took place on each day of the 2024 Dainų Šventė Song Festival:
- DAY 1 – June 29th
- Anniversary Song Day “Hills Green with Forests” in Kaunas (Kaunas Song Valley)
- DAY 2 – June 30th
- The Day of World Lithuanians and National Diaspora “Let’s Unite Lithuania!”
- Centenary Evening at Vilnius Cathedral Square
- DAY 3 – July 1st
- Children‘s Traditional Crafts Village
- Folk Art Exhibition “From the Core” at the Museum of Applied Arts and Design (Arsenalo Street 3A, Vilnius)
- DAY 4 – July 2nd
- Kanklės Concert “Let the Kanklės Play”
- Folklore Day “Rasi rasoj rasi” – performances at Vilnius Bernardine Garden, the castles territory, the Cathedral Square, 20:00 concert at the Cathedral Square
- DAY 5 – July 3rd
- Theatre Day “On the Steps of Being” at the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Katedros Square 4, Vilnius)
- Ensembles Evening “The Tree of Life” at Kalnų Park Stage (T. Kosciuškos Street, Vilnius)
- DAY 6 – July 4th
- Vocal Ensembles Concert “Who are You, Earth?” at the Lithuanian National Philharmonic (Aušros Vartų Street 5, Vilnius)
- Ensembles Evening “The Tree of Life” at Kalnų Park Stage (T. Kosciuškos Street, Vilnius)
- DAY 7 – July 5th
- Participant Procession (from Vilnius Cathedral Square to Vingio Park)
- Song Day “May the Green Forest Grow” at Vilnius Vingio Park Stage (M. K. Čiurlionio Street 100, Vilnius)
- DAY 8 – July 6th
- Closing Ceremony at Vingis Park, Vilnius
For the discerning enthusiast, if you read the official Dainų Šventė website, there is much more information if you read it in Lithuanian, the source language. The English page is much more limited in its descriptive detail. Check out the page in Lithuanian here if you like!
Historical Background
Dainų Šventė traces its origins to 1924, when the first official Song Festival was held in Kaunas, the then previous capital of Lithuania – the present capital is Vilnius. The festival emerged during a period of national awakening, as Lithuania sought to assert its cultural identity following centuries of foreign aggression. The inaugural event brought together choirs from across the country, fostering a sense of unity and national pride.
Lithuanians are very proud of their country and language, especially considering they are an ancient nation that has never really been conquered and have always known victory. Many Lithuanians are still fiercely pagan, preferring a traditional religion called Romuva.
Over the decades, Dainų Šventė has evolved, reflecting the changing political and social landscapes of Lithuania. The festival persisted through the Soviet era, serving as a subtle form of resistance and a reminder of the nation’s cultural roots. Today, it continues to be a powerful symbol of Lithuanian identity and a celebration of its artistic and linguistic traditions.
The country of Lithuania was heroically founded in 1253 by King Mindaugas. Centuries later it was occupied by Russia in 1795 all the way until 1918 when Lithuania deoccupied – that’s 123 years. It held its independence for another 22 years until 1940 when the Soviet Union occupied it for a year until 1941, at which time the Germans occupied the country maliciously until 1944.
After WWII, Stalinist Russia illegally occupied all of the Baltic Nations, including Lithuania for another 46 years until 1990. In one of the most incredible feats of humanity, the Lithuanians, Latvians, and Estonians managed to deoccupy from Russia by forming a human chain of over 2 MILLION PEOPLE that spanned over 400 MILES to bring awareness to the human atrocities happening within these peaceful nations. This was known as “The Baltic Way.”
The Significance of Dainų Šventė 100
Celebrating the centennial of Dainų Šventė is a remarkable achievement, not only for Lithuania but also for the preservation of intangible cultural heritage worldwide. The Lithuanian Song Festival 2024 has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, underscoring its global significance.
Dainų Šventė 100 is more than just a festival; it is a profound expression of national unity and cultural continuity. It brings together generations of Lithuanians, both at home and abroad, to celebrate their shared heritage.
The centennial celebration serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music and dance to unite people and foster a sense of belonging. Over 38,000 people participated in performances!
The Lithuanian Song Festival 2024 Website describes the celebration’s philosophy very eloquently in their “concept” statement:
What is a century? What significance one hundred years hold in the infinity of our time? It takes one hundred years for a pine to grow, it can also be a life span of a fortunate human, who lives the life watching the changing surface of the world, while becoming more and more certain that in the run of centuries the foundation of the world stays intact.
What glued us together as a community back then in 1924, at the first Lithuanian Song Celebration, and what would still bind in 2024 – one century past, when we would meet again? We will certainly be different, yet the same – the singing and dancing Lithuanian nation, speaking the same language and cherishing the same culture.
source: https://dainusvente.lt/en/
Highlights of Dainų Šventė 100
- Opening Ceremony: A Grand Spectacle
The centennial celebration kicks off with a grand opening ceremony that showcases the rich tapestry of Lithuanian culture. The event features performances by some of the country’s most renowned choirs, folk ensembles, and solo artists. Traditional costumes, intricate choreography, and powerful vocal performances create an unforgettable experience for attendees. - Mass Choir Performances
One of the most iconic aspects of Dainų Šventė is the mass choir performances. Thousands of singers from various choirs come together to perform traditional Lithuanian songs, creating a breathtaking wall of sound. The sight and sound of these mass performances are truly awe-inspiring, demonstrating the collective power of communal singing. - Folk Dance Extravaganza
In addition to choral music, Dainų Šventė 100 features vibrant folk dance performances. Dancers dressed in traditional attire perform intricate routines that have been passed down through generations. These dances not only entertain but also tell stories of Lithuanian history, folklore, and daily life. - Cultural Workshops and Exhibitions
To deepen the understanding of Lithuanian culture, the festival offers a range of workshops and exhibitions. Attendees can learn about traditional crafts, folk instruments, and the history of Lithuanian choral music. These activities provide a hands-on experience, allowing participants to engage with the culture on a personal level. - Youth Involvement: Passing the Torch
A significant focus of Dainų Šventė 100 is on the involvement of the younger generation. Special performances by youth choirs and dance groups highlight the ongoing transmission of cultural traditions. By engaging young people, the festival ensures the preservation and evolution of Lithuania’s cultural heritage. - International Participation
The centennial celebration also embraces international participation, with guest performers and choirs from various countries. This global dimension underscores the universal appeal of the Lithuanian Song Festival 2024 and fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
The context of the 2024 Lithuanian Song Festival is important to understand in terms of the history of the country of Lithuania. In fact, Lithuania’s (Lietuva) first king was named Mindaugas and “He was the first King of Lithuania and its very first Head Of State, a legacy which has continued all the way until the present day; he united tribes, repelled the Crusades, and created the country of LIETUVA, otherwise known as Lithuania.” See the Family History Foundation article below!
Dainų Šventė 2024 Festival Outline
>>>DAY 1: June 29, 2024 – Opening Ceremony
Day 1 – June 29th
◦ Anniversary Song Day “Hills Green with Forests” in Kaunas (Kaunas Song Valley)
Location: Vingis Park, Vilnius
Activities:
- Opening Parade: Participants from various regions march through Vilnius, showcasing traditional costumes and banners.
- Ceremonial Speeches: Addresses by prominent political leaders and cultural figures.
- Choir Performances: Performances by leading choirs from across Lithuania, featuring traditional and contemporary songs.
- Fireworks Display: A grand fireworks display to conclude the opening ceremony.
Crowd Size: Approximately 50,000 attendees.
Political Leaders Involved:
- President of Lithuania
- Prime Minister of Lithuania
- Minister of Culture
Regions Involved:
- All regions of Lithuania with a focus on regional diversity and representation.
>>>DAY 2: June 30, 2024 – Choral Concerts
Day 2 – June 30th
◦ The Day of World Lithuanians and National Diaspora “Let’s Unite Lithuania!”
◦ Centenary Evening at Vilnius Cathedral Square
Location: Various venues across Vilnius, including the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre and Vilnius University Courtyards.
Activities:
- Choral Performances: Regional and national choirs perform a variety of Lithuanian choral music.
- Workshops: Choral singing workshops for participants and visitors.
Crowd Size: Approximately 10,000 attendees at various venues.
Regions Involved:
- Aukštaitija
- Žemaitija
- Dzūkija
- Suvalkija
>>>DAY 3: July 1, 2024 – Folk Dance Day
Day 3 – July 1st
◦ Children‘s Traditional Crafts Village
◦ Folk Art Exhibition “From the Core” at the Museum of Applied Arts and Design (Arsenalo Street 3A, Vilnius)
Location: Kalnai Park, Vilnius
Activities:
- Folk Dance Performances: Traditional dances performed by groups from different regions.
- Dance Workshops: Interactive sessions where attendees can learn traditional Lithuanian dances.
Crowd Size: Approximately 20,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- All regions, with a focus on traditional dance forms unique to each area.
>>>DAY 4: July 2, 2024 – Youth Day
Day 4 – July 2nd
◦ Kanklės Concert “Let the Kanklės Play”
◦ Folklore Day “Rasi rasoj rasi” – performances at Vilnius Bernardine Garden, the castles territory, the Cathedral Square, 20:00 concert at the Cathedral Square
Location: Bernardine Garden, Vilnius
Activities:
- Youth Choir Performances: Performances by youth choirs and ensembles.
- Interactive Activities: Workshops and activities focused on engaging young participants in traditional music and dance.
Crowd Size: Approximately 15,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- Youth groups from all regions, emphasizing the involvement of the younger generation.
>>>DAY 5: July 3, 2024 – Cultural Heritage Day
Day 5 – July 3rd
◦ Theatre Day “On the Steps of Being” at the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Katedros Square 4, Vilnius)
◦ Ensembles Evening “The Tree of Life” at Kalnų Park Stage (T. Kosciuškos Street, Vilnius)
Location: Lithuanian Folk Museum, Rumšiškės
Activities:
- Traditional Crafts Workshops: Demonstrations and hands-on activities in traditional Lithuanian crafts.
- Folk Music Performances: Performances by folk musicians from various regions.
- Exhibitions: Displays of historical artifacts and cultural heritage.
Crowd Size: Approximately 12,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- Focus on regions with rich craft traditions like Aukštaitija and Žemaitija.
For a photo gallery of some of the day’s events, check out the National Museum in Vilnius’ archive of photos taken by Deimantė Šuliauskaitė.
>>>DAY 6: July 4, 2024 – International Day
Day 6 – July 4th
◦ Vocal Ensembles Concert “Who are You, Earth?” at the Lithuanian National Philharmonic (Aušros Vartų Street 5, Vilnius)
◦ Ensembles Evening “The Tree of Life” at Kalnų Park Stage (T. Kosciuškos Street, Vilnius)
Location: Cathedral Square, Vilnius
Activities:
- International Choir Performances: Guest choirs from various countries perform alongside Lithuanian groups.
- Cultural Exchange Workshops: Sessions on international choral traditions and cultural exchange.
Crowd Size: Approximately 18,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- Lithuanian regions and international participants from invited countries.
To watch the full live stream you can check out the video on the Lietuvos nacionalinis kultūros centras’ Facebook page.
>>>DAY 7: July 5, 2024 – Mass Choir Day
Day 7 – July 5th
◦ Participant Procession (from Vilnius Cathedral Square to Vingio Park)
◦ Song Day “May the Green Forest Grow” at Vilnius Vingio Park Stage (M. K. Čiurlionio Street 100, Vilnius)
Location: Vingis Park, Vilnius
Activities:
- Mass Choir Performance: Thousands of singers perform together in a grand finale concert.
- Special Guest Performances: Featured performances by renowned soloists and ensembles.
Crowd Size: Approximately 30,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- All regions, with mass participation highlighting national unity.
>>>Day 8: July 6, 2024 – Closing Ceremony
Day 8 – July 6th
◦ Closing Ceremony at Vingis Park, Vilnius
Lithuanian Independence Day!!! July 6 is Statehood Day (Valstybės (Lietuvos karaliaus Mindaugo karūnavimo) diena). This marks the actual, original founding of the Lithuanian nation under a single monarch, King Mindaugas in 1253. July 6th is Lithuania’s Independence Day, or Statehood Day, it’s true birthday.
National Statehood Day is also a day, the only one in the world I’m told, where all Lithuanians AROUND THE WORLD get together and sing the National Anthem at the same time! Valio!
Location: Vingis Park, Vilnius
Activities:
- Closing Concert: Performances by select choirs and dance groups, highlighting the best of the festival.
- Ceremonial Closing: Speeches and acknowledgments by political leaders and festival organizers.
- Farewell Fireworks: A fireworks display to conclude the festival.
Crowd Size: Approximately 40,000 attendees.
Regions Involved:
- All regions, with a focus on celebrating the unity and diversity of Lithuanian culture.
This comprehensive outline provides an overview of the key activities, locations, and participants involved in each day of the Dainų Šventė 2024 festival.
Still hungry for more? Make sure you check out highlights and the full buzz from the 2018 Dainų Šventė Celebration, which was off the charts amazing.
Social Media and Online Resources
For those who cannot attend in person, Dainų Šventė 100 offers a wealth of online resources and social media content to keep everyone connected and engaged.
- Official Website: Visit the official Dainų Šventė website for detailed information on the festival schedule, performers, and history.
- Facebook: Follow the Dainų Šventė Facebook page for updates, live streams, and behind-the-scenes content.
- Instagram: Check out the Dainų Šventė Instagram for photos and stories from the festival.
- YouTube: Subscribe to the Dainų Šventė YouTube channel for videos of performances and highlights from past festivals.
Lithuanian Language Resources
For Lithuanian speakers, there are additional resources to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Dainų Šventė:
- Lietuvių kalba svetainė: Apsilankykite Dainų Šventės oficialioje svetainėje lietuvių kalba, kur rasite išsamią informaciją apie festivalio tvarkaraštį, atlikėjus ir istoriją.
- Facebook: Sekite Dainų Šventės Facebook puslapį naujienoms, tiesioginėms transliacijoms ir užkulisių turiniui.
- Instagram: Žiūrėkite Dainų Šventės Instagram nuotraukoms ir istorijoms iš festivalio.
- YouTube: Užsiprenumeruokite Dainų Šventės YouTube kanalą vaizdo įrašams apie pasirodymus ir svarbiausius praeitų festivalių momentus.
- A List of Lithuanian Books to Read: Lithuanian Books: A History, Language, Literature Reading List! published by the Family History Foundation.
Conclusion
Lithuanian Song Festival 2024, Dainų Šventė 100, is not just a celebration of a century of song and dance; it is a celebration of the enduring spirit of Lithuania. As the festival marks this significant milestone, it stands as a beacon of cultural resilience and a testament to the power of tradition.
Through its rich history, vibrant performances, and profound impact, Dainų Šventė continues to inspire and unite people, ensuring that the songs and dances of Lithuania will resonate for generations to come.
For more information, be sure to visit the official Dainų Šventė website and follow their social media channels.
I just cant get enough of these celebrations! As if 100 years of Song Celebration wasn’t enough, you will not believe the level of celebrating that went on for the COUNTRY’S OWN 100 YEAR CENTENNIAL IN 2018! I’ve put together a Top 10 List for you to marvel at, you’ll wish you were a part of the #1 celebration on the list.
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