January 13
A Memory Day for Victims of January Events in 1991
Lithuania tried gaining its independence from Russia. A main event that occurred was the citizens of Lithuania gathered around the Television Towers by holding hands symbolizing a barrier against the Russian tanks. The Russians did not care and trampled over 1,000 citizens and only killed 13.
Lithuania tried gaining its independence from Russia. A main event that occurred was the citizens of Lithuania gathered around the Television Towers by holding hands symbolizing a barrier against the Russian tanks. The Russians did not care and trampled over 1,000 citizens and only killed 13.
February 16th
Day of establishment of the state of Lithuania . Lithuania became independent in 1918 and is celebrated yearly.
Februrary
Uzgavenes is a holiday that is celebrated on the 7th week before Easter, known as Ash Wednesday. It is a traditional celebration of the Roman Catholics which is known as the "defeat of winter." Everyone masquerades, dance, and eat the traditional dish, pancakes with many different toppings (the pancakes symbolize the returning sun). There is a staged battle between "Porky" (personifying winter) and "Hempen man" (personifying spring) and that is how they "defeat" winter. For the finale they burn an effigy (symbolizing winter).
March 11
Lithuania Declared Independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990. It is a very important day because after many years of being occupied and fighting for their freedom, they finally earn it.
Christmas
Christmas is just like any Christmas that is celebrated in America. The traditional way for Lithuanians to celebrate Christmas is the night before, Christmas Eve, there are 13 dishes prepared for the family and guests; each of them symbolizing something and none of the dishes include meat. After dinner, people have to recite a poem or sing a little song to receive their gift.
Name Day
Every day of the year there are a couple of names that are celebrated. In America, it would be similar to someone's half birthday. What people do in Lithuania is when it is someone's name day, the person is appreciated. (just like their own special day)