A lot of cultural and entertainment events, holidays and festivals take place in Vilnius every year. Some of them carry the roots from the past centuries, while others were introduced to the society not long time ago. Local people like to celebrate on a special scale, and carefully preserve their traditions, passing them from generation to generation for many centuries. The most anticipated events in the winter calendar are Christmas and New Year. The preparation starts in early December, all the streets are lit with lights and garlands, and the main Christmas tree arrays the Cathedral Square. Here you can visit the Christmas markets and fairs, purchase various festive gifts and souvenirs, try delicious snacks and mulled wine. Three King's procession ends the New Year and Christmas holidays on January 6 in Catholic Vilnius. On February 17, locals together with tourists celebrate the famous Pancake Week or Užgavėnės, with traditional pancakes, mummers and burning the stuffed mare.
During the first weekend of March, the residents of the surrounding villages and towns gather in the capital to enjoy Kaziuko Fair. This is the largest event, which attracts artisans and craftsmen from all over Lithuania and neighboring countries. The fair has been held since the 19th century and its popularity is growing annually. Here you will find numerous tents with various goods, attend interesting seminars, masterclasses and lessons, try delicious locals cuisine and have a lot of fun during cheerful entertainment activities. This is, perhaps, the most colorful event in Vilnius, symbolized by the willow. The entrance to the fair is free of charge, but note that here you will have a huge desire to purchase everything, so better take with you some cash. In the middle of the March, the fans of cinema will be able to enjoy three weeks of movies during the Spring Film Festival in Vilnius. Festival offers a huge selection of the best films that have won the international recognition.
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