“Vieversio šokiai” in Šiauliai Invite You to Welcome Spring

On February 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., the entertainment hall “Maksas” at the Šiauliai Cultural Center will host the folklore dance evening “Vieversio šokiai” (Lark Dances), inviting residents to gather for live music, traditional dances, and community spirit. The event is dedicated to Lark Day, associated with the anticipation of spring and the rebirth of life, symbolically calling for the coming of spring through dance and music. The evening is open to everyone, with special attention this year given to young people and seniors.
Organizer – Šiaulių kultūros centras. Partner – Šiaulių Dainų muzikos mokykla. The event is free of charge.

Since ancient times, Lithuanian dance evenings (vakaronės) have been an integral part of community life – a place where people gathered after work to dance, sing, play games, and simply be together. Dance played a special role: not merely as movement or entertainment, but as a living connection to ancestral worldview, customs, and traditions of social interaction. This tradition continues today, encouraging people not to forget the joy of movement and togetherness.

The name of the evening is symbolic. In the traditional calendar, February 24 marks Lark Day, associated with the feeling of approaching spring, renewal, and the stirring of community life. The lark has long been regarded as a herald of spring, and “Vieversio šokiai” symbolically invites participants to welcome the coming season. The evening is intended for everyone who longs for connection, with particular emphasis this year on youth and older generations – those for whom dance evenings are often deeply connected with shared community experiences.

“A dance evening is not about perfect steps, but about spending a good time together. It is a place where live music, dance, and community meet. We invite everyone to come, feel the spirit of traditional gatherings, join the circle, and simply be here and now. This evening is about movement, laughter, improvisation, and the freedom to be yourself – like in old-time gatherings, but with today’s rhythm,” says Aušra Brijūnienė, Head of the Amateur Arts Department at the Šiauliai Cultural Center.

Music for the dancers will be performed by the instrumental group of the folklore ensemble “Vieversėlis” from the Šiauliai Dainų Music School (led by A. Stankus) and the folklore ensemble “Vijolė” of the Šiauliai Cultural Center (Artistic Director A. Stankus). Live music, traditional rhythms, and experienced musicians will create a warm and engaging atmosphere.

During the evening, participants will be invited not only to dance but also to take part in traditional games, enjoy themselves, and immerse in the world of folklore without pressure or obligations. Everyone is welcome to dance – whether longtime folklore enthusiasts or those who simply wish to try or recall dances learned long ago.

For more information, please contact Aušra Brijūnienė, Head of the Amateur Arts Department at the Šiauliai Cultural Center, mobile +370 655 25 527, e-mail ausra.brijuniene@siauliukc.lt.

Photos by Liubov Yarmoshenko and Rolandas Parafinavičius.