The procession of the Three Kings was illuminated by the symbolic Sun in Šiauliai

In 2025 January 6 The procession of the Three Kings took place in the city of Šiauliai, which traditionally marked the end of the Christmas period and the appearance of Jesus Christ to the world. Not only sages Kasparas, Merkelis and Baltazaras, but also other characters walked the streets of the city, radiating their greatness and attracting the attention of the crowd. In this year's procession, the people of Šiauliai could see a new character - the shining, golden Sun, symbolizing not only the expected spring, but also the city itself - Šiauliai. The participants of the procession greeted the residents of Šiauliai and the guests of the city, wishing them joy, to find fulfillment and peace in the new year.
The organizer is the Šiauliai Cultural Center.

This year, Šiauliai said goodbye to the traditional procession of the Three Kings during the Christmas period. Residents and guests of the city could see the 3-meter-tall kings Kasparas, Merkelis and Balthazarass in the procession, whose masks were carried by the men of Šiauliai Rugby Club "BaltRex". They were followed by a joyful and noisy entourage - the actors of the theater studio "Gūžta" of the Šiauliai Cultural Center (artistic director I. Norkutė), dressed as Sheep, Ram, Donkey, and a Camel. They were also joined by a new, never-before-seen, symbolic character - the shining, golden Sun, which symbolizes the awaited spring and the city itself - Šiauliai. The bright Morning Star showed the way for the procession.

The noisy participants of the procession with the rhythm group "Ritmas kitaip" started their journey from the Šiauliai cultural center, through Kaštonų alėja and Vilniaus gatvė boulevard, where they reached the sculpture "Bell of Love" by Darius Augulis. The sound of the bell, which rang out beautifully, touched the heart of every resident. Traveling along Tilžės Street, the participants of the procession reached the Resurrection Square, at the entrances of which this year the prequel is placed. After the Three Kings awarded the newborn baby Jesus Christ with symbolic gifts - gold, incense and myrrh - the gathered spectators were greeted by a priest who wished people more faith and hope. Traditionally, holy chalk was distributed to residents and guests of the city so that they could continue the tradition of writing the first capital letters of the sages' names "+K+M+B" above the doors of their homes. It is believed that this marking symbolizes a blessing for the house and its inhabitants throughout the year.

The event attracted the attention of many Šiauliai residents and city guests. A young mother who participated in the celebration shared her impressions: "We came with the whole family, it is a real joy for the children to see such great kings and the festive procession. It is important for us to nurture traditions and pass them on to children."

"It is not only a beautiful, but also a meaningful celebration that reminds us of the importance of fellowship and faith. Every time I come with a good mood, and this year the character of Saulė surprised me even more", said the person from Šiauliai who watched the march.

The festive procession once again proved that the residents of Šiauliai cherish traditions, cherish holidays and enjoy the moments that connect the city and its people.

The information is provided by Edita Smindriūnaitė, Deputy Head of the Event Organization Department of the Šiauliai Culture Center, tel. +370 656 13 886, e-mail edita.smindriunaite@siauliukc.lt

Gintarė Daknytė's photo.