Vilnius, named the European Capital of Christmas for 2025, turns into a storybook setting each December. The city glows with lights strung across medieval rooftops, and the Old Town becomes a lively maze of markets, concerts and nostalgic treats. Among the season’s most imaginative traditions is a one day celebration called Christmas Before Christmas. Held on December 13, it invites visitors to rediscover the excitement and wonder of childhood while experiencing the Lithuanian capital at its most enchanting.
Unlike the crowded squares of larger European cities, Vilnius offers room to breathe. Its winter traditions unfold at a relaxed pace, and locals often outnumber visitors throughout the festive season. For travelers seeking a quieter and more intimate Christmas escape, the city provides a refreshing alternative.
Christmas Before Christmas
A One Day Celebration Filled with Joy and Imagination
On December 13, Vilnius introduces a playful program that fills the Old Town with music, storytelling and seasonal surprises.
A Christmas currency for one day
Five temporary Christmas Bank branches appear throughout the city. Each distributes collectible festive tokens created by the Bank of Lithuania. Visitors complete a simple task explained by the bank staff and receive a token that can be exchanged for hot chocolate, tea or sweet treats at participating cafés and stalls. The activity brings back the delight of childhood treasure hunts.
Complimentary guided tours
Expert guides lead visitors along cobblestone streets, sharing legends of Vilnius and recounting how noble families once celebrated the holidays. These themed tours offer an engaging introduction to local customs and provide a wonderful way to explore the Old Town.
International Christmas Square
At Sirvydas Square, 144 Christmas trees appear, each decorated by one of the international communities living in Vilnius. Together they create a colorful and symbolic forest celebrating the city’s cultural diversity.
A festive postcard service
Special letterboxes across the Old Town allow visitors to send handwritten holiday cards to any address worldwide. Once dropped inside, the city’s Christmas helpers take care of delivery. It is one of the most charming traditions of the season.
A mass choir at Town Hall Square
Singers of all ages and skill levels are invited to rehearse and perform in a large outdoor choir beside the seasonal ice rink. The sound of voices rising together under the winter lights creates one of the most memorable moments of the celebration.
Holiday activities throughout the city
Families will find free screenings of classic films such as It’s a Wonderful Life, along with craft workshops, carousel rides and ice skating sessions. A gingerbread themed bus circles the city center at no charge, and choirs perform on the 3G bus route from the airport, turning a simple commute into a festive concert.
The Festive Season in Full
Celebrations from Late November through January 6
Beyond the December 13 event, Vilnius keeps the holiday spirit alive through early January. Cathedral Square and Town Hall Square host Christmas markets filled with artisanal crafts, warm drinks, traditional wool accessories, handmade ornaments and seasonal treats. Visitors can sample local specialties including chocolate mushrooms, dried mushrooms and the beloved Lithuanian branch shaped cake called šakočiai.
A handmade two story carousel spins in the heart of the Old Town. A Christmas train rides between the main squares. An outdoor skating rink shimmers under strings of lights near Town Hall Square. The entire historic district becomes a stage for concerts, workshops and festive gatherings.
Vilnius also serves as an excellent gateway to the region. Throughout the season, fairy tale themed trains connect the city with Mockava and onward routes to Warsaw and Krakow. Decorated train cars also operate on routes to Kaunas, Klaipėda and Trakai, offering charming rides through the winter landscape.
Where to Stay
Hotels with Warm Winter Atmosphere
Vilnius has an inviting mix of boutique hotels, creative properties and historic retreats. These options place travelers close to the main markets and tree lighting events.
Hotel Pacai
Formerly a grand Baroque palace, this luxury hotel combines Old World elegance with modern style. Its courtyard glows beautifully in winter and the location on Pilies Street puts guests in the heart of the Old Town.
Artagonist Art Hotel
This vibrant and modern hotel showcases original artwork by Lithuanian artists. Every room has its own personality and the property sits steps away from restaurants, galleries and Christmas activities.
Naru Hotel
Set in the artistic Užupis neighborhood, Naru Hotel offers a peaceful stay beside the river. The design blends Scandinavian simplicity with Lithuanian craftsmanship. It is ideal for guests who want a quiet, creative district close to the city center.
Stikliai Hotel
A beloved Relais and Châteaux hotel known for its cozy winter atmosphere. Seasonal decorations, warm lighting and excellent service make it a welcoming hideaway in December.
Shakespeare Boutique Hotel
A literary themed hotel where each room is inspired by a famous writer. The library style lounge is especially inviting during the holidays and the location is perfect for visiting Cathedral Square.
What to Eat
Lithuanian Winter Flavors to Try
Vilnius shines during the holiday season with comforting dishes, warm drinks and traditional sweets. Travelers will find seasonal specialties at both the markets and local restaurants.
Kūčiukai with poppy seed milk
Small slightly sweet dough bites traditionally served with a warm poppy seed and honey drink. A classic Lithuanian Christmas treat.
Cepelinai
The country’s signature potato dumplings filled with meat or cheese. They are hearty, satisfying and perfect for cold winter evenings.
Šakočiai
The famous tree shaped cake baked layer by layer on a rotating spit. It is widely available at Christmas stalls and makes a popular gift.
Honey based drinks
Lithuania’s honey tradition is strong and many cafés serve warm honey drinks with spices, offering a cozy alternative to mulled wine.
Mushroom dishes
Look for mushroom soups, dried mushroom snacks and chocolate mushrooms. Mushrooms are central to Lithuanian holiday meals.
Where to try festive food
Etno Dvaras
A well known spot for traditional Lithuanian cooking. Perfect for trying cepelinai and classic winter dishes.
Grey
Located near Cathedral Square, Grey offers modern Lithuanian cuisine in a stylish and relaxed setting.
Lokys
Located in a medieval cellar, Lokys serves historic recipes that include game, berries, mushrooms and honey. The candlelit atmosphere feels especially festive.
Sugamour
A favorite for desserts and elegant pastries. Seasonal creations make it a delightful stop for hot chocolate and sweets.
Vilnius offers charming lights, intimate markets, heartfelt traditions and a warm spirited atmosphere that sets it apart from more crowded European destinations. Travelers can explore peaceful cobblestone streets, enjoy locally made crafts, join public celebrations and savor winter flavors that make the season special.
From sending a postcard through a Christmas letterbox to joining a choir beneath the evening sky, visitors will find that Vilnius celebrates the holidays with sincerity, imagination and plenty of Baltic charm.
Discover more from SNAP TASTE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.