Lithuania’s second city, Kaunas, is preparing to mark its 618th anniversary with a sprawling three-day festival 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—including the medieval Kaunas Castle and the scenic Santaka Park—into a multi-sensory playground of music, gastronomy, and art.
For UK travellers looking for a late-spring getaway, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience the Baltic state’s cultural depth without the usual capital-city crowds. The event, which spans across the Old Town and the Nemunas Island, is designed to be accessible to all, featuring a mix of free concerts, interactive installations, and family-friendly zones.
The Heart of the Celebration: Santaka Park and the Old Town
The festivities officially kick off on Friday, May 22. The primary focus for the opening day is the confluence of Lithuania’s two largest rivers, the Nemunas and the Neris, at Santaka Park. This area will host a large-scale art fair and dedicated children’s entertainment zones.
Food enthusiasts should head to the ‘Open Kitchen’ area, a popular street food market concept that brings together local vendors and international flavours. As evening falls, the Old Town will host a communal ‘Birthday Dinner’ in the streets, followed by the ‘BandFest Kaunas 2026’ festival and an open-air disco in the historic Town Hall Square (Rotušės aikštė). A highlight of the first night will be a major light installation illuminating the Santaka Bridge, bridging the gap between the city’s history and its modern aspirations.
Saturday, May 23: From Medieval Knights to Contemporary Rhythms
Saturday promises the most diverse schedule of the weekend. The area surrounding Kaunas Castle will be transported back in time with a dedicated Medieval Town, featuring traditional crafts and historical re-enactments. Nearby, a ‘Tourism Street’ will showcase the best of Lithuanian hospitality, while a classic car exhibition provides a nostalgic look at Baltic automotive history.
For younger audiences and fans of contemporary culture, the ‘Audra’ (Storm) festival will commence on Nemunas Island. This event has gained a reputation for pushing boundaries in electronic music and urban art. The evening will culminate in ‘Stichijų Santaka’ (Confluence of Elements), a massive performance in Santaka Park combining fire, water, and music, followed by a laser show and acrobatics at the Town Hall Square.
Sunday, May 24: A Day for Families and Wellness
The final day of the 618th birthday celebration shifts its focus toward health, sports, and family activities. The Dainų slėnis (Valley of Songs) will host functional sports competitions and free calisthenics training sessions for the public.
Families with children will find plenty of engagement in Santaka Park, which will feature a trampoline park, kite-making workshops, and a performance of the popular Lithuanian musical ‘Kakė Makė and the Time Machine.’ The festival will conclude with a final concert in the park and the ‘TARP’ light installation, designed to leave a lasting visual impression as the city enters its 619th year.
Practical Information for Visitors
Most events throughout the three-day period are free of charge and open to the public. The city’s main hubs—Santaka Park, the Old Town, and Nemunas Island—are all within walking distance of each other. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, as several streets in the Old Town will be pedestrianised for the duration of the festival. For those flying from the UK, Kaunas Airport offers direct connections to several British cities, making the festival an easy addition to a long-weekend itinerary. Full schedule details can be found on the official municipal portal at kaunas.lt.
Source: Kauno miesto savivaldybė
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