The 1st of July is a remarkable day for the city of Šiauliai and the entire Baltic region. At Resurrection Square, the 10th international folk contest-festival “The Flower of the Sun” was officially opened – one of the most significant folk art events in Lithuania and neighboring countries.
The celebration began with a colorful, tradition-filled parade of participants from the “Šiauliai” hotel to Resurrection Square. The city was immersed in a vibrant sea of national costumes, accompanied by folk songs, authentic instruments, applause, and heartfelt smiles.
During the festival’s opening ceremony and concert in Resurrection Square, the audience had a unique opportunity to witness the rich tapestry of world folklore. Ensembles from twelve countries performed on stage: Azerbaijan (“Vatan Music Group”), Estonia (“Duo Paulina & Miia”), Hungary (“Kincső”), Latvia (“Āre”), North Macedonia (“Oteks Folk”), Poland (“Krakus”), Portugal (“Grupo Folclórico de Faro”), Serbia (“Smederevo”), Slovakia (“Lipovec”), Spain (“Danzas Burgalesas Justo Del Río”), Ukraine (“Kralytsia”), and Lithuania.
Lithuania is represented by some of its brightest ethnic culture ambassadors: Loreta Sungailienė, Damilė and Lukas Bagdonavičius, and the ensembles “Salduvė,” “Aidija,” and “Vieversėlis.” Their performances reminded the audience of the country’s deep-rooted traditions and their enduring relevance in today’s world.
Throughout the festival, Resurrection Square hosts a special ethno games and entertainment zone, where visitors are invited to engage with folk culture not only as spectators but as participants – dancing, playing, crafting, and creating.
“The Flower of the Sun” is not just a cultural event – it is a living testament that national identity, traditions, and heritage are not relics of the past, but a source of inspiration for today. It is a bridge between generations, nations, and worlds, uniting people in Šiauliai through a shared love of folklore and community.
This jubilee festival is a radiant chapter not only in the city’s but also in the entire country’s cultural life.
The organizers express sincere gratitude to Member of the Seimas Culture Committee Rima Baškienė, as well as to the employees of Šiauliai City Municipality’s Department of Culture and other departments for their invaluable assistance in resolving organizational matters.
The festival is held under the patronage of the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania, Šarūnas Birutis.
You can find the festival program here
