As the festive season nears, Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, is ready to captivate the world with its unique blend of traditional and special holiday offerings. Beyond the usual Christmas market, Vilnius is set to establish itself as a must-visit holiday destination, turning into an enchanting realm of Christmas events and attractions. Explore what Vilnius has prepared for holiday visitors starting from December 1.
Ice Skating at the Palace of the Grand Dukes
Annually, Vilnius picks a fresh locale for its open-air skating rink. This year, it graces the courtyard of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, a meticulously restored 15th-century Renaissance palace renowned for its architectural grandeur. A hub of outdoor activities in warmer seasons, the palace transforms this December into a magical scene, where skaters twirl under the stars amid the palace's intricate balustrades.
Culinary Extravaganza at Lukiškės Prison
Discover one of Vilnius' most distinctive spaces at the reimagined Lukiškės Prison, a formerly central penitentiary transformed into a cultural and artistic hub. From December 7-10 and 14-17, its courtyard hosts a Christmas gastro market, inviting visitors to indulge in local delights such as hot wine, cakes, and candies.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the iconic Church of St. Nicholas, a splendid Orthodox church within Lukiškės, will be open for exploration, enhancing the charm of this unique holiday experience.
Flame Art at Liepkalnis Water Storage
Experience the extraordinary at the recently inaugurated Liepkalnis Water Storage with a unique fire-themed art installation. Transformed from a century-old underground reservoir into a venue for performances and artistic displays, this location outside the Old Town features a 9-meter tall propane flame as its centrepiece. Witness the creativity of artists and engineers through additional installations and art pieces in the surrounding area, making for a truly out-of-the-box experience starting in December.
Unique Christmas Tree at Cathedral Square
Vilnius's Cathedral Square hosts a yearly Christmas tree, renowned for its distinct theme, unique ornaments, and enchanting atmosphere. In recent years, the city has showcased large-scale tree-like art installations reflecting the holiday spirit and the city's uniqueness. While anticipating this year's reveal, explore captivating tree designs from past seasons.
Festive Market Extravaganza in Cathedral Square
Experience holiday enchantment at Vilnius's celebrated Christmas markets surrounding the Cathedral Square and Vincas Kudirka Square. Indulge in local flavours, delightful treats, and warm beverages as you shop for the perfect holiday gifts. Opening from December 1st, these markets promise a magical atmosphere for all.
