Kaunas Celebrates 618 Years: A Guide to the Three-Day City Festival

Main details for residents

Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas, is preparing to mark its 618th anniversary with a sprawling three-day celebration from May 22 to May 24. Known for its unique Interwar architecture and its recent stint as a European Capital of Culture, the city is transforming its most iconic landmarks—from the medieval Kaunas Castle to the modern Nemunas Island—into a massive open-air festival stage.

For international visitors and locals alike, the event offers a rare opportunity to see the city’s historic spaces activated by contemporary art, music, and community initiatives. The festivities are largely free to the public, focusing on the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, a site that has served as the city’s heart for over six centuries.

Event Schedule and Key Locations

The celebration is structured to spread across the city, ensuring that different neighborhoods host unique atmospheres. Whether you are looking for high-energy concerts or quiet family-oriented workshops, the three-day program is designed to be inclusive.

Friday, May 22: The Opening Night

The first day focuses on the arts and gastronomy. The Santakos Park will host an extensive art fair, while the ‘Open Kitchen’ food space will offer a variety of local and international street food.

• BandFest Kaunas 2026: A showcase of brass and wind bands providing a traditional festive soundtrack.
• Old Town Dinner: A community-led initiative where long tables are set up in the historic streets, encouraging residents and visitors to dine together.
• Open-Air Disco: As night falls, the Town Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė) will transform into a dance floor, complemented by a major light installation on the Santaka Bridge.

What changes in practice

Saturday, May 23: History Meets Modernity

Saturday is the most intensive day of the program, blending Kaunas’ medieval roots with its vibrant youth culture. The area around Kaunas Castle will be turned into a ‘Medieval Town,’ featuring traditional crafts and historical reenactments. Simultaneously, a classic car exhibition will line the nearby streets.

• Audra Festival: For those seeking contemporary sounds, the ‘Audra’ (Storm) festival will take over Nemunas Island, focusing on electronic music and modern youth culture.
• Family Zones: Santakos Park will feature interactive water walls, kite-flying workshops, and sports activities including ‘LKL Street’ basketball—a nod to the city’s status as the basketball capital of Lithuania.
• The Main Event: The evening culminates in ‘Stichijų Santaka’ (Confluence of Elements), a massive performance involving fire, water, and music at the river junction, followed by acrobatic displays and laser shows at the Town Hall Square.

Sunday, May 24: Wellness and Culture

The final day is dedicated to relaxation and family entertainment. The Dainų Valley (Valley of Songs) will host functional sports competitions and free fitness sessions like callanetics.

• Children’s Entertainment: A trampoline park and outdoor workshops will be available throughout the day. A highlight for local families will be the musical performance ‘Kakė Makė and the Time Machine,’ based on a popular Lithuanian children’s character.
• Closing Ceremony: The festival concludes with a final concert in Santakos Park and the ‘TARP’ light installation, designed to leave a lasting visual impression of the city’s 618th year.

Planning Your Visit

Kaunas is easily accessible from the UK, with direct flights from London, Bristol, and Edinburgh frequently arriving at Kaunas Airport (KUN). Once in the city, most festival venues are within walking distance of each other in the pedestrian-friendly Old Town and Centras districts.

While the main events are free, visitors are encouraged to check the official city website at kaunas.lt for specific timings and any last-minute registration requirements for workshops. The city’s mayor, Visvaldas Matijošaitis, has emphasized that this birthday is a ‘celebration for everyone,’ inviting guests to experience the pride and hospitality of the Kaunas community.

Source: Kauno miesto savivaldybė