Midsummer celebration in Kernavė 2024
The tradition of the midsummer celebration, the Lithuanian Rasa (Kupolės, after the introduction of Christianity - Joninės), is distinguished by its abundance of customs, beliefs, and ceremonial actions. They signify the highest rising of the sun, the longest day, the greatest flowering of vegetation and vital forces, the harmony of nature and people.
The annual Dew Festival in the Kernavė Archaeological Reserve reflects the most important meaning of this period. It also has another unique historical significance: in 1967, for the first time, a Rasa was held here in accordance with archaic customs of the Baltic tribes, which have been reconstructed on the basis of written sources (dating back to the 14th century), folklore and ethnography, and scientific research. The Lithuanian folklore movement grew out of this activity initiated by the Romuva movement, and together with other national identity and patriotism attitudes fostered by resistance movements, contributed to the restoration of the country's independence. The celebration of Dew stirred up the nation's vital forces, and revived the old traditions, wisdom and faith to new life.
We invite you to celebrate together the vigorous midsummer celebration of Rasas, which has been cherished in Kernavė for more than half a century!
PROGRAMME:
23-24 June 2024.
IN THE TOWN
From 12.00 Fair of craftsmen, folk artisans, culinary heritage promoters.
KERNAVĖ ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE MUSEUM
17.00 Opening and presentation of the exhibition "Colours of Kernavė"
ON THE HILLFORTS
Ritual performers, folklore ensembles, traditional bands
20.00 Ceremonial gate next to the Castle Hillfort
20.20 Circumambulations, games, folklore ensemble programmes on Castle Hillfort
21.40 The Sun setting on Castle Hillfort
22.20 Lighting of the fire altar next of Altar Hillfort
23.00 Lighting of the Great Bonfire and lighting of the hubs on the mounds
23.20 Nightly dances on Castle Hillfort
24.00 Floating of wreaths on the Neris River from Pajauta Valley
3.00 pm Jumping over the bonfire on Castle Hillfort
4.30 pm Saluting the rising sun and bathing in the first dew on the Mindaugas Throne Hillfort and in the Pajauta Valley
FREE EVENT
ORGANISERS
Širvintos District Municipal Cultural Centre
Širvintos District Municipality
PARTNER
Administration of the State Cultural Reserve of Kernavė
SPONSOR
"Rasa gaivieji gėrimai"
INFORMATIONAL SPONSOR
" Širvintų kraštas"
IMPORTANT : During the event, video and photography will be taken and the images may be published on social networks and in the press.
