Commemorating the Baltic Way, Kaunas way

The programme of free events for the 32nd anniversary celebration includes weaving of friendship bracelets, body-art tattoos, a photo exhibition and concert

On Monday afternoon, Kaunas Culture Centre and Kaunas Municipality invite residents to Vienybės (Unity) Square to commemorate, for a second year running, the anniversary of the Baltic Way. The programme marking one of the most significant and unique events in the history of the Baltic States includes educational activities for all age groups, sharing of memories, weaving of friendship bracelets, a photo exhibition, live concert, and more.

600 km long human chain

On August 23, 1989 about two million people joined hands in a 600 km long human chain across the three Baltic Soviet republics. This peaceful political demonstration highlighted the aspirations of Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians for freedom from the Soviet Union and ultimately brought their countries back in the fold of independent nations. Historians and participants agree that the Baltic Way cannot be measured in kilometres alone, as it attests to the limitless spirituality, determination and courage of the people of the united Baltic States.

From weaving classes to sing-along tunes

Here is a breakdown of activities in Kaunas according to the organizers’ Facebook page:

Education (5 pm-7 pm)

• Weaving of human figures in the colours of the flags of the Baltic States (KKC textile studio “Gijų sodai”);
• "Open-air library": creative workshops, book exchange, board games, solving puzzle boxes (Kaunas Vincas Kudirka Public Library);
• Symbolic body-art tattoos with artist Ala Volkova;
• Postcard-making workshop "Greeting from Lithuania". Participants will be guided to create a tricolored postcard - a symbolic salute to Latvia and Estonia.
• Cultural education class "Get acquainted with the history of Kaunas". Participants will explore the city cultural heritage sites, play the board game "Find a place for historical Kaunas landmarks", compare old and new images of Kaunas, solve a crossword puzzle. Tasks implemented correctly will be rewarded with prizes. (Kaunas County Public Library);
• Weaving of friendship bracelets in the colours of the Baltic flags (Lithuanian Museum of the History of Education);
• Drawing on skin using the theme of the Baltic Way (Kaunas School of Applied Arts).

Exhibition (5 pm - 7 pm)

• Exhibition of R. Požerskis' photography works "The Baltic Way"

Live music (6 pm - 7 pm)

• Kaunas Big Band and Povilas Meškėla.

The live concert capping the programme will revive the most famous hits of Maestro Stasys Povilaitis as well as other popular songs about Lithuania. No doubt many in the audience will sing along.

During the events, participants are asked to comply with all applicable COVID-19 safety requirements.

Immeasurable determination

"Every year, this day reminds us of the immeasurable determination and courage that has brought the three Baltic countries - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia - back to the world map. The mobilization of the people of that time has become an example of unity that we should follow today, cherishing and cultivating our freedom. With this event, we want to encourage Kaunas residents to cultivate a living history,” said Kaunas Deputy Mayor Andrius Palionis, as quoted by the municipal website.