On January 25th, 1323, Gediminas, the Grand Duke of Lithuania, wrote a letter mentioning VIlnius. This makes the day the official birthday of the country’s capital – it has just turned 694.

Vilnius, apart from posting a video greeting to its citizens, didn’t think it’s necessary to make a big party. Maybe because the municipality is saving the energy for the 700th birthday. That’s where Kaunas, the second city in Lithuania, stepped in – the guys in the municipality decided it’s unfair to leave the people of Vilnius without a party. So they organised one. A billboard with the greeting and invitation to the party was posted on one of the busiest streets in the capital. A special website, leaflets and merchandising were prepared, too.

Because, seriously, who likes to celebrate their birthday at home? The preparation, the food, the dishes… It’s always nicer to go somewhere. Kaunas, for example. So, if you reside in Vilnius at the moment, this is a great chance to discover the second city in Lithuania, too.

The birthday party will be held on Saturday, January 28th. Everyone is invited to travel to Kaunas for free by bus (and arrive at the brand new bus station of Kaunas, opened just a few days ago), to start with. There are 15 routes you can choose from, starting 07:55AM. The last bus you can use the voucher (available in the Vilnius bus station – you’ll definitely spot a special stand) on from Vilnius to Kaunas leaves at 09:10PM. Here are some great accommodation options in Kaunas you are welcome to browse through. It’d be rude to leave a birthday party too early, right?

Free excursions focusing on various topics are available in Kaunas throughout the day – these are mostly in Lithuanian but you’re welcome to download a special app “Kaunas of 1919-1940” available at both App Store and Google Play. The app will help you discover the best examples of modernist architecture in Kaunas. They’re very close to be included into the UNESCO World Heritage list, too!

A handful of cafes, bars and restaurants will give you a special discount if you show them the birthday voucher. Agave, Ieti, Višta Puode, Hop Doc, Capo, Radharane, Kultūra, Lizdas are among the recommendations – find the full list in a special website designed for the birthday party. The discount also works with the VILNIEČIO KORTELĖ, the Vilnius transport card.

See you in Kaunas on Saturday. Hope you have a splendid time. Don’t forget to tag your snapshots #sveikinakaunas and #kaunastic.

More info: dovana.kaunas.lt

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