An entire programme of events is in place for the country as a whole to celebrate 1,000 years since the first mention of its name in the German Quedlinburg Annals in 1009, with many of these taking place in the capital city of Vilnius. At the same time, the title of European Capital of Culture 2009 has been bestowed upon Vilnius, a title shared with Linz, Austria, meaning that visitors to the city will be treated to an array cultural events and attractions.
Literature in Lithuania
Vilnius is home to the Vilnius Book Fair, one of the most famous in all of Europe and the largest in the Baltic area. This year, the spotlight falls on the fair for a number of reasons: as well as the country’s millennium celebrations and Capital of Culture events, the fair is enjoying its tenth anniversary. Readers attending this event between 12-15 February will have the chance to meet both Lithuanian and international authors and to participate in the numerous activities on offer.
On 14 February, lovers of literature will also be able to take part in the “Vilnius reads Linz” event, celebrating the literature of joint Capital of Culture, Linz, Austria. Linz will simultaneously host a “Linz reads Vilnius” event, honouring the work of Lithuanian writers.
Art in Vilnius
September sees the Art in Unusual Places exhibition. From 19-27 September, there will be art installations all over the city: from musical performances in the streets and video displays in the most unexpected of locations. Surprise and innovation is the aim. In addition, residents will be displaying their own artistic endeavours in their own homes for visitors to take in, the very best of which will receive prizes.
Midsummer’s night will be the night to see the city come alive. “Culture Night: Let There Be Night!” will take place from 6pm on 20 June 2009, with street performances, dances and film screenings open to all. Running right through the night until 6am, everyone attending this event will be able to experience Vilnius like never before.
By contrast, during the darkest nights of the year, the city will be brought to life by the Festival of Lights. A nine-day extravaganza, from 28 November-6 December 2009, even the very darkest corners of the city will be bathed in the warm glow of light, sparkling for the entire world to see.
Information on Vilnius, Lithuania
When planning a trip to Vilnius, it should be remembered that Lithuania does not use the Euro, but instead retains its own currency, the lita (LTL). $1(USD) is roughly equivalent to 2.60LTL, £1(GBP) equates to about 3.83LTL: 120LTL can buy a meal for two in a restaurant, including wine.
Vilnius International Airport is served by several major airlines. Direct flights to Vilnius are available from many European airports, while flights from the USA, including connections, can vary from 12-27 hours.
There is a wide range of accommodation on offer in Vilnius, with something to suit most budgets, ranging from hostels to guest houses to luxury hotels. Planning ahead would be wise, as the events are likely to prove incredibly popular and hotel rooms will sell out quickly.
These are just a taste of the events lined up for the Capital of Culture celebrations, with many more being added as the year progresses. A visit to Vilnius in 2009 is sure to be one to remember.
Sarah V Reid - Born and bred in the North West of England, Sarah has travelled extensively throughout the United Kingdom, Europe and the United ...
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