April marks the start of spring in Lithuania and the festivals and celebrations that go with it. Although there are no major traditional festivals in this month, some important days are nevertheless marked in the calendar. Here are some of them:
International Earth Day
International Earth Day is celebrated on 22 April to promote environmental awareness. In Lithuania and around the world, educational campaigns, clean-up campaigns and other initiatives are organised to protect nature and sustainability.
Easter
Although the date of Easter varies from year to year, it often falls in April. It is one of the most important Christian festivals, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is celebrated in Lithuania with various traditions: the tying of Easter eggs, the Easter morning feast of St. John the Baptist, and the Easter Vigil. Easter morning Mass, family dinners and Easter egg-rolling.
Book Carrier's Day
April. In April, Lithuania celebrates Knygnešio diena (Book Carrier's Day), honouring book carriers and their contribution to the preservation of Lithuanian language and culture. It is a symbolic day to commemorate the bravery and perseverance of the Book Bearers in spreading the Lithuanian word.
International Dance Day
29 April is International Dance Day. Dance performances, open evenings for dance schools, seminars and workshops are organised to promote and popularise the art of dance.
Spring Festivals and Events
In April, various spring festivals and events start in Lithuania, attracting artists, musicians and culture lovers. These can be literary, film, music or art festivals that open up space for creativity and new ideas.
Nature observation
Although it is not an official holiday, April is a great time to observe nature. This is the time of year when bird migration begins, spring flowers bloom and nature comes back to life after hibernation, which is why nature tours and excursions are organised.