Lithuania Celebrates National Unity with Song

Thousands joined in Vilnius and around the world to sing the national anthem, commemorating the coronation of King Mindaugas. Festivities highlighted Lithuanian unity and cultural pride.

A Night of Music in Vilnius

The celebration centered on the Neris embankment, nestled between the Žirmūnai and King Mindaugas bridges, becoming a hub for music. The evening commenced with a performance by **DJ Mamania**, followed by a set from the duo **Justė Kraujelytė** and **Domibu**, leading up to the highly anticipated singing of the national anthem.

According to the World Bank, cultural events and celebrations can significantly boost national pride and social cohesion, fostering a stronger sense of identity and belonging within communities (World Bank).

Global Chorus for Lithuania

At 9 p.m., Lithuanians across the globe united to sing their national song, a tradition now in its 16th year. In Vilnius, the audience was joined by dignitaries including Vilnius City Mayor **Valdas Benkunskas**, Lithuanian President **Gitanas Nausėda**, and German President **Frank-Walter Steinmeier**, who was visiting Lithuania.

“Freedom does not happen by itself, it needs to be won, it needs to be protected, it needs to be defended.

—Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of Germany

**Steinmeier** also addressed the crowd in Lithuanian, saying, “For us and your freedom.” Flags waved and shouts of “Lietuva” echoed as the anthem concluded.

Origins of the Celebration

The project “National Song Around the World” began in 2009. This year’s main event took place in Druskininkai, symbolically linking **Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis** and **Vincas Kudirka**, two iconic Lithuanian figures.