Vilnius’ Christmas Tree Starts the Countdown to Christmas
The Lighting of the Christmas Tree Marks the Beginning of the Holiday Season in Lithuania’s Capital.
Anticipation was high leading up to the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Vilnius’ Cathedral Square this evening. Lithuania’s capital has received a lot of global attention over the years for its unique and stunning Christmas Trees, and this year’s creation, which looks like a giant clock from above, certainly did not disappoint.
Not a single tree was cut down to build Lithuania’s most beautiful Christmas tree yet. The 27-metre tall metal construction, which is made up of some 6,000 branches and over five kilometres of lighting, is definitely a sight to behold.
Looking from above, the 50-metre wide composition resembles an impressive clock with four snowflake cogwheels and 12 glowing tables that serve as clock numerals. The lighting of the giant Christmas tree clock means that the holiday season has officially begun and the countdown to Christmas is on. One doesn’t have to look too far to find the inspiration for the tree’s design; the clock hanging on one of Vilnius’ most iconic structures – the Cathedral Square Bell Tower standing right next to the Christmas tree – is said to be over 345 years old – older than Big Ben!
Vilnius transforms into a veritable Christmas wonderland during this festive month, and can be explored by taking a ride on the Christmas train, which makes its way through the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Visiting the Christmas villages filled with souvenirs and festive food at the Cathedral and Town Hall Squares is an absolute must – both are open until 7 January. Moreover, a 3D tale of the birth of Jesus projected onto the walls of the Cathedral will make for an unforgettable experience for the whole family – the 15-minute story will be told four times a day starting at 5 p. m. from 25 to 29 December.
For all the romantics in the city over the holidays, the ice skating rink will awaken childhood memories of magical winters. And to top it all off, New Year’s Eve will be marked with a special interactive light installation on the Cathedral Bell Tower, reminding everybody about the power of time and the importance of history. For the most spectacular fireworks, staying at Cathedral Square as the clock strikes midnight is another must.
Visit vilnius-tourism.lt for more tips and activity ideas, including a complete programme for an enchanting getaway filled with markets, tours, activities, and tasty culinary experiences.
Also read:
It’s official: the Spanish design won the competition for the National Concert Hall
The architectural idea of the new symbol of Vilnius on the Tauras Hill was finally presented – out of all the ideas for the National Concert Hall offered by nearly 250 architects from around the world, the idea of the Spanish team “Arquivio Architects” was announced the winner of the... ❯❯❯
2019-09-23
An invitation to a Lithuanian film night: “Cinema under the stars” screens Walnut Bread
On August 5, the “Lithuanian Film Night” will screen one of the most beautiful Lithuanian films, the restored version of Walnut Bread by Arūnas Žebriūnas (1978) in Lithuania and abroad. The Cathedral Square in Vilnius was chosen for the event, but this classic movie will be... ❯❯❯
2019-08-01
A memorial plaque was unveiled in A. Vivulskio Street to commemorate the Jewish research institute JIVO
The memorial plaque for the Jewish Institute YIVO was unveiled at A. Vivulskio Street 18. Here the most important Eastern European Jewish Cultural and Historical Research Center – the adornment of the history of the entire Litvak community of Lithuania and the history of Lithuania itself,... ❯❯❯
2019-07-01
Education experts from around the globe to meet at an international forum ‘World After University’ in April
On 4th of April, 2019 high-ranking politicians, professors, rectors and the best education experts from all around the globe will look into the most relevant topics that Universities are facing today at the international forum ‘World After University’. At the event, University... ❯❯❯
2019-03-26
Vilnius to Celebrate K11: March, Tours and Free Public Transport
On 11 March, Vilnius city dwellers and city guests will follow the Roads of Freedom in Vilnius. Everyone is invited to the march at which a 400 metre long Lithuania’s flag will be carried and to take free of charge tours around the Old Town. The tours will be given in a number of different... ❯❯❯
2019-03-06
Renewal of St. Casimir’s Fair: 4 m High Bridge, Music and More Than 1,500 Tradesmen
The 416th St. Casimir’s Fair in Vilnius started with the St. Casimir’s March from Lukiškės Square to Kudirkos Square where the fair was solemnly declared opened on the 4 m high bridge over Gediminas Avenue. This year, visitors of the fair will find numerous attractions,... ❯❯❯
2019-03-01
