Sky-High Art: The 21st Zapyškis International Kite Festival
The Nemunas River valley, framed by the silhouette of the historic 14th-century Gothic church in Zapyškis, transformed into a vibrant open-air gallery this past Saturday. Despite the unpredictable Baltic rain, the 21st International Kite Festival, themed “Between Earth and Sky,” successfully drew thousands of spectators and artists to one of the Kaunas district’s most beloved summer traditions.
For over two decades, this festival has evolved from a local gathering into a significant fixture on the European kite-flying circuit. This year’s iteration emphasized the intersection of traditional craft and contemporary art, proving that even a rainy forecast cannot dampen the spirit of a community united by the simple joy of watching wind-borne art.
A Canvas in the Clouds
The sky above Zapyškis served as a dynamic canvas for master kite-makers Tadas Surkis and Donatas Dumskas. Their contribution to the festival went beyond standard diamond-shaped flyers; instead, they launched massive “kite-flags” that featured reproductions of famous paintings. As these towering works of art ascended, they brought a sense of high culture to the grassy slopes of the valley, merging the heritage of classical painting with the physics of flight.
Snieguolė Navickienė, the Vice-Mayor of the Kaunas District, opened the event by praising the resilience of the attendees. She noted that the festival has become a cornerstone of the region’s identity, where the act of flying a kite serves as a metaphor for collective optimism. “May every kite be accompanied by smiles and the joy of being together,” she remarked, highlighting the festival’s role in fostering social cohesion.
British Artistry on the Nemunas
Reflecting the festival’s international reach, this year’s program featured a notable presence from the United Kingdom. British artists Pauline Taylor and Ged McCormack led creative sessions that bridged the gap between the UK and Lithuanian art scenes. Their involvement offered a unique perspective on kite design, emphasizing the narrative potential of wind-powered structures.
Beyond the kites themselves, the festival introduced “Sutartinai,” an interactive installation that captivated visitors with its blend of kinetic animation, natural field recordings, and electronic music. This sensory experience allowed participants to immerse themselves in a digital-organic hybrid environment, echoing the festival’s broader theme of connecting the terrestrial with the ethereal.
Education and Competition for All Ages
The “Education and Workshop Meadow” remained a hive of activity throughout the day. Families from across Lithuania and abroad engaged in hands-on learning, ranging from the construction of wind turbines and binoculars to the delicate art of crafting wind catchers. For those seeking more adrenaline-fueled entertainment, a paragliding simulator provided a taste of flight without leaving the ground, while giant soap bubbles and traditional outdoor games kept younger visitors entertained.
Competition remains a core element of the Zapyškis tradition. Under the watchful eye of long-time judge Jonas Kriščiūnas and the energetic commentary of sports journalist Rytis Kazlauskas, participants competed in kite-flying contests across two age categories. The competitive spirit was palpable, yet it remained secondary to the festival’s primary goal: the celebration of shared creativity.
A Soundtrack for the Skies
As evening approached, the focus shifted toward the festival stage. The musical lineup featured the retro-pop sounds of the Lithuanian group “Superkoloritas,” followed by a headline performance from the Latvian indie-rock band “Sudden Lights.” The latter, well-known to international audiences for their recent Eurovision appearance, brought a contemporary energy to the historic valley.
Earlier in the day, the festival’s official anthem, “Aitvaras” (The Kite), was performed by actor and bard Mindaugas Ancevičius, accompanied by the Kaunas District School of Arts youth choir. The festivities concluded with a set by DJ Dee, ensuring that the 21st anniversary of “Between Earth and Sky” ended on a high note, both musically and atmospherically. For the Kaunas region, the event remains a testament to how traditional festivals can successfully integrate modern art forms while maintaining a deep-rooted sense of place.
Source: Kauno rajono savivaldybė
