Kaunas continues to reinforce its status as a vibrant cultural city, with major investments in infrastructure tailored for cultural expression, a rich diversity of events, and innovative creative initiatives. In 2025, the city is set to host a record-breaking number of cultural events – more than 5,000 – offering something for both residents and visitors. Kaunas is also embarking on a series of high-profile developments: construction of the M. K. Čiurlionis Concert Centre is set to begin, the Girstutis Cultural Centre will undergo renovation, and the School of Performing Arts is to be fully modernised. The city actively supports both local and international cultural initiatives, celebrating diversity and strengthening community ties through accessible, free events.

New Spaces for Culture

“A growing city inevitably demands more culture.  It is a fundamental part of our identity. From large-scale developments to smaller grassroots initiatives, every cultural project has a place in Kaunas. I am convinced that our investment in infrastructure is just as vital – newly renovated and purpose-built spaces are emerging as inspiring platforms for artists and inviting destinations for audiences,” said Kaunas Mayor Visvaldas Matijošaitis.

Renovations and new builds are enhancing the quality and accessibility of cultural services, enabling greater public engagement. In recent years, Kaunas has allocated over EUR 100 million to cultural infrastructure projects of significance not just for the city, but for the entire nation.

Among the highlights are the renewed Darius and Girėnas Stadium, the iconic Kaunas Sports Hall, the historic Song Valley, the innovative Science Island on Nemunas Island, and the beautifully restored Kaunas Town Hall – a gem of the Old Town. These venues are increasingly opening their doors to the cultural sector – from large-scale concerts featuring international and local stars, to festivals, community gatherings, artistic initiatives, performances, and rehearsals.

Ongoing Projects

Kaunas’ commitment to cultural development is unwavering, with several ambitious projects in motion. The city is preparing to launch a construction tender for the M. K. Čiurlionis Concert Centre,  with work expected to commence in the autumn, subject to final approvals. The project is based on a design developed by Paleko Archstudija and Baltic Engineers, part of the Be Live group. The international competition attracted 119 submissions from architect teams representing 36 countries.

Set to become one of Lithuania’s premier concert venues, the 23,000-square-metre glass-encased building will rise on the left bank of the Nemunas River, near the Vytautas the Great (Aleksotas) Bridge. The centre will house a classical music hall with seating for 1,500 guests and a multifunctional 700-seat auditorium suitable for a variety of events.

The Girstutis Cultural Centre is also poised for transformation. Renovation plans include upgrading the façade, roof, interior spaces, and stage equipment. A brand-new auditorium and a two-storey foyer are part of the proposed design. Procurement for the construction contract is scheduled for this summer, with work planned to begin in 2026.

Meanwhile, major upgrades are under way at the Kaunas Mikas Petrauskas School of Performing Arts. This year, the city is investing EUR 1.3 million in renovating its premises. Once reconstruction of the interwar-era building is complete, it will become a modern hub for education in music, dance, and the performing arts. Plans also include adapting the historic Kurhaus building to serve as a dedicated space for the performing arts.

Number of Events to Increase

Kaunas continues to cement its position as a leading city of culture. In 2025, the city will host over 5,000 cultural events – including concerts, competitions, discussions, festivals, performances, and other artistic activities. This marks an increase of nearly 100 events compared to the previous year.

The calendar includes city-organised celebrations such as national and memorial commemorations, tributes to cultural figures, anniversaries of creatives, Kaunas’ birthday, the Aviation Festival, the Christmas tree lighting, and New Year’s festivities. Each year, Kaunas honours outstanding contributors to culture and the arts through the Fortūnos awards, as well as the Maironis and the Culture and Arts Prizes.

A wide range of cultural activities is delivered by municipally funded institutions, including  the Kaunas Cultural Centre, the Artists’ House, the Kaunas City Museum, the Vincas Kudirka Public Library, the Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra, Kauno santaka concert agency, Aura dance theatre, among others.

The cultural heritage and influences of other countries are also showcased through collaborative events with international partners. In March, the city celebrated Francophonie Month, followed by Scandinavian Days in April. Residents can also look forward to Discover Czechia in Kaunas as well as Italy and Japan Days, bringing cultural and educational experiences to local audiences. This year, classical music fans will be treated to choir performances from Germany and Austria.

Promotion of Cultural Initiatives

Every year, Kaunas City Municipality supports meaningful and accessible cultural projects through the Initiatives for Kaunas programme. The programme recognises the value of both new and long-standing initiatives,  all of which contribute to the city’s cultural diversity.

“New projects bring fresh and dynamic cultural experiences, while ongoing initiatives have become integral to Kaunas’ cultural traditions. This year, our focus has been on inclusive culture, international cooperation, and preserving the legacy of the European Capital of Culture.

We are delighted to see many innovative and intercultural projects being implemented.  These initiatives make Kaunas more open, offering space for artistic expression and creative freedom,” said Agnė Augonė, Head of the Culture Division.

In total, 86 cultural project applications were submitted this year, with funding awarded to more than half. The selected projects reflect the city’s diverse cultural identity and historical richness – from events organised by ethnic communities such as Ukrainian, German, Armenian, and Jewish groups, as well as the Kaunas Centre for Various Cultures, to international festivals in photography, choral music, poetry, and contemporary music, including the 15th Kaunas Biennial.

Special attention is being paid to ensuring the continuity of initiatives from Kaunas – European Capital of Culture. Well-loved festivals such as ConTempo, Audra, Living Letters, and Kaunas Literature Week will once again energise the city’s public spaces. The Kaunas State Musical Theatre will also present its new production, Česlovas Sasnauskas. Requiem. Film lovers will not be forgotten, with support going to the Kino pavasaris and Scanorama film festivals.

Funding decisions are based on the accessibility of events, the variety of cultural offerings, and the level of community involvement. In 2025, the city has earmarked EUR 750,000 for cultural projects initiated by organisations.

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