The day began with a concert by Lithuanian children’s and youth folkl ensembles on the “Sun Terrace” (Saulės terasa). The young performers offered the audience heartfelt emotion, the beauty of traditional costumes, and a warm sense of togetherness.
In the evening, the concert “Let the Kanklės Play” took place at the Cathedral of St Apostles Peter and Paul in Šiauliai, featuring kanklės and related instrument ensembles from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Performers included “Kokle” from Latvia, the Estonian duo “Duo Paulina & Miia,” the international “Lumen Duo” (Lithuania / Netherlands), “Laumakė” from Anykščiai, as well as kanklės players from the Šiauliai region and Saulius Sondeckis Gymnasium of Arts. The concert was enriched by Loreta Sungailienė playing traditional kanklės, tenor Juozas Janužas, and birbynė players Alvaidas Bernotas and Darius Daknys. Gentle string sounds and folk motifs created a special atmosphere in the sacred area.
The second joint dance of “The Flower of the Sun” brought together people of all ages to share in dance and joy. It was followed by the concert “Folklore in Jazz,” which revealed an unexpected fusion of tradition and contemporary music. On stage performed Lithuanian Armed Forces Orchestra led by Major Egidijus Ališauskas, Loreta Sungailienė, trombonist Vytautas Pilibavičius, and the folk ensemble “Salduvė.” Their combined musical performance amazed even seasoned music lovers—folk melodies intertwined with jazz improvisations, proving that tradition can be both alive and modern.
The day concluded with the get-together event involving Lithuanian traditional dances “Everybody Let’s Dance!” featuring children’s and youth folklore ensembles “Vieversėlis” (Šiauliai), “Inkstiliuks” (Skaudvilė), “Dūzginėlis” (Laukuva), “Gers smuoks” (Šilalė). The audience was not only invited to watch but also to join the dances, feel the rhythm of Lithuanian folk, and experience the joy of community.
Folklore is not just heritage—it is a living, breathing part of culture that inspires, connects, and brings joy.
