Grand Žolinės Festival in Krekenava Features Rich Program

Krekenava, Lithuania, is preparing to host its Grand Žolinės festival on August 15, a significant celebration of the Assumption of Mary. The event promises a rich program, including solemn Holy Mass in the basilica, a bustling traditional crafts fair, a market, and entertainment for children. The town square will come alive with performances by artist Sakalas Čumačenko and the band "Biplan," with DJ "Rhythm K" closing the evening.

This year's festival holds special significance as it commemorates the Year of the Kanklės, a traditional Lithuanian plucked string instrument. The celebration will feature performances by the ensemble "Šilko stygų," the Latvian folklore group "Knipati," and the "Kankliuoti gali visi" studio. Each day of the festival is dedicated to a different community, including farmers, prayer groups, families, and teachers, highlighting the inclusive spirit of the event.

The Žolinės festival tradition in Krekenava is deeply rooted in the region's cultural history and is officially recognized as part of Lithuania's intangible cultural heritage. A unique aspect of the celebration involves the creation of wreaths, a tradition upheld by local women for eleven years. This year, approximately 100 meters of wreath are planned to adorn the basilica's columns and outdoor arches. The community also encourages residents to decorate their yards and homes with greenery, extending the festive atmosphere throughout the town.

Beyond Krekenava, the Žolinės traditions are being honored elsewhere. In Raguva, from August 14 to 16, the "Kaip gera grįžti man tėviškėn…" (How good it is to return home…) festival will feature concerts, a market, sports competitions, and family entertainment, alongside the main Žolinės Holy Mass. Additionally, the Krekenava basilica's priest, Dr. Gediminas Jankūnas, along with his community, is celebrating the installation of new stained-glass windows in the Upytė church. Glass artist Viktoras Dailidėnas donated these artworks, which were created with the parish covering only the material costs. Six of the ten planned windows are already in place, with the full composition expected to be completed this autumn.