You may have heard that Lithuania was the last pagan country in Europe. Remnants of this past can still be seen everywhere, from folk art to everyday traditions. But nowhere is it more evident than during the celebration of Midsummer, known as Joninės.
On the shortest night of the year, people gather around large bonfires, jump over the flames for good luck, sing age-old songs, weave flower crowns, and even set out in search of the mythical fern blossom (fun fact: ferns do not actually bloom). As it is a national holiday and a day off, locals spend the night outdoors celebrating and enjoying the moment.
No matter where you stay in Lithuania, there is likely to be a celebration nearby. For a full Midsummer experience, you can head to the country’s ancient capital, Kernavė, located about an hour from Vilnius. It hosts one of the largest and most impressive Joninės celebrations, known for being as authentic and rooted in pagan tradition as it gets.