Baltic Song and Dance Celebration

Heritage

Unesco

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First taking root in the late 19th century as a way of celebrating the common love of song that united the three Baltic nations, this event has since developed into one of the largest festivals of this kind in the world. Here, singers from not only the Baltic countries, but also from across the globe, unite in music to celebrate not only their nationhood, but also their humanity. And 2024 sees the centenary of the Lithuanian song festival.

What is it that distinguishes the songs of the Baltic peoples? For Lithuanians, sutartinės, a polyphonic singing style that is unique to the country’s Aukštaitija region is the most notable. Meanwhile, the music of Latvia, which stretches back over a millenia, is characterised by short songs accompanied by the regional variation of a zither. Estonian songs share an affinity with Finnic culture, and have an ancient singing style that is runic in nature. United together these three distinctive national styles provide a rich and historical patchwork of traditions. In these songs live the heritage of their people, their smiles, tears, hope, tragedies and dreams.

During the days of the Baltic Song and Dance Celebration, which is held every four years in Lithuania, and every five years in Latvia and Estonia, thousands of performers come together in song and dance. In fact, as many as 40,000 participate in the Lithuanian iteration, which is by far the largest. For music lovers, or those in search of harmony and inspiration, this is an unmissable treat. And the fact that many of the performances are held in the open air at Vilnius’ magical Vingis Park adds another dimension to the event.