Events in Kaunas

Music can be heard across Kaunas. Laisvės alėja comes alive with street musicians and evening performances in its venues. In summer, Nemunas Island and the riverbanks host music under the open sky.

For a city backdrop, look for a concert near the meeting of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. Kaunas Castle adds a sense of history, while Old Town courtyards offer acoustic performances and choral music.

Arrive early enough to find your place and enjoy a walk before the show. You can come on foot from the centre, cycle along the river or use public transport. Evenings by the water can be cooler, so bring a light jumper.

There is music for a wide range of tastes, from chamber ensembles and choirs to rock and electronic music. Check whether the event has seating, particularly if it forms part of a longer evening out.

Theatre in Kaunas takes place in a variety of settings. The Old Town offers classics and contemporary interpretations, while Žaliakalnis has intimate stages and improvisation. Laisvės alėja is ideal for a walk before or after a performance.

Make the journey part of your evening. Take the Aleksotas funicular up to the viewpoint. A look over the city can set the mood before the theatre lights go down.

For a family performance, look for shows aimed at children and young people, including Sunday matinees. Smaller venues have fewer seats, so plan your visit ahead.

Check the performance language and any surtitles, particularly for an international production. Seats near the stage bring you closer to the actors, while those further back offer a view of the whole scene. Check the running time beforehand so you can plan around the intervals.

Markets bring colour to weekends and holidays in Kaunas. Old Town streets and squares offer crafts, design, food and farm produce. Markets near Kaunas Castle are often accompanied by live performances.

If you enjoy browsing, visit a market in Žaliakalnis or on the way to Ąžuolynas. As well as shopping, you can meet local communities and hear their stories. Bring a reusable bag for small purchases.

Riverside markets have a rhythm of their own. Walk along the embankments, stop for some music and try something to eat. Events change with the seasons, so check the date.

Save markets you enjoy so they are easy to find next time. Tastings and creative workshops often take place, so allow time to linger. With children, the open spaces near the castle and riverbanks can be a useful choice.

Kaunas festivals cover music, film, dance and street art. Larger stages appear near the rivers’ confluence and on Nemunas Island, while parks host daytime programmes. Ąžuolynas offers space for a picnic between performances.

In summer, bring comfortable shoes and a bottle of water. Riverside cycle paths make it convenient to reach venues and meet friends in the centre. After the event, walk back through the Old Town.

For a quieter experience, look for smaller festivals in courtyards and indoor venues. These offer a closer connection with performers and time to enjoy the programme without rushing. Many activities cater for children.

The weather in Kaunas can change quickly, so bring a light raincoat. Look after the surroundings, sort your rubbish and follow the park rules to help keep festivals welcoming for everyone.