The sound of tuning instruments and the scent of fresh flowerbeds now define the heart of Vilnius Old Town as the city prepares for a major cultural milestone. On May 16, starting at 11:00 AM, the capital officially celebrates the reopening of Lazdynų Pelėdos Square, a space that has undergone a significant transformation to become a more accessible and vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.
Historically known to many as St. Joseph’s Square, the area has long served as a quiet pocket within the bustling UNESCO-listed Old Town. The recent renovation project has focused on preserving its mature trees while modernising the infrastructure. New walking surfaces have been laid, flowerbeds have been replanted with seasonal blooms, and fresh ‘small architecture’—including benches and lighting—has been installed to encourage locals to linger and enjoy the historic surroundings.
A New Chapter for the Old Town
The renovation is more than just a cosmetic lift; it is a strategic effort to improve the daily quality of life in the city centre. Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas noted that the square is already beginning to take on a life of its own following the completion of the works. “Lazdynų Pelėdos Square is already living its life, and we are officially marking its renewal with this celebration,” the Mayor stated. “After these changes, the place has become more comfortable, cosier, and even more inviting to stop, meet, and spend time. I am glad that we are marking this occasion with music.”
Accessibility was a primary focus of the project. The entrances to the square have been redesigned to be more inclusive, ensuring that the space is easier to navigate for families with prams and individuals with mobility challenges. The integration of better tree care practices during the construction phase also ensures that the square’s ‘green lungs’—its mature canopy—will continue to provide shade and character for decades to come.
A Celebration of Sound and Community
The official opening coincides with the city-wide Street Music Day (Gatvės muzikos diena), a beloved Lithuanian tradition that fills the streets with live performances. The square will serve as a primary stage for the day, hosting a diverse lineup of local talent. The musical programme features the all-female ensemble ‘Pragiedruliai’ from Balsiai, the ‘Stereo’ music studio from Vilnius Antakalnis Gymnasium, the rising young performer Tadas, and the group ‘Akys’, known for their Lithuanian-language repertoire.
Beyond the music, the event is designed as a multi-generational community gathering. For those interested in the deeper roots of the city, historian and guide Erika Meškauskienė will be on hand to share the storied past of Lazdynų Pelėdos Square and its significance within the wider context of Vilnius’s urban development.
Families attending the opening will find a variety of interactive stations. Children can participate in workshops to build cardboard birdhouses or create traditional windmills, while temporary tattoo stations and ‘water cocktails’ provided by Vilniaus Vandenys (Vilnius Waters) will be available throughout the afternoon. This blend of historical education, modern recreation, and live performance reflects the city’s broader goal of making the Old Town a living, breathing space rather than just a preserved monument.
Planning Your Visit
The festivities begin at 11:00 AM on May 16. The square is located in the heart of the Old Town, making it easily reachable by foot from the Town Hall or the Gates of Dawn. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot for the musical performances and to take advantage of the guided historical talks.
As part of the wider Street Music Day celebrations, the opening of Lazdynų Pelėdos Square represents a significant investment in the city’s public realm. Whether you are a local resident looking for a new spot for your morning coffee or a tourist exploring the winding streets of the capital, the renovated square offers a refreshed perspective on one of Vilnius’s most charming corners.
Source: Vilniaus miesto savivaldybė
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