Paper Short Abstract:

The paper examines how the festival of the Epiphany is adapted to the secular environment in the city of Vilnius. It will be highlighted which idea is emphasized in the scenario and how it corresponds to the traditional festival.

Paper Abstract:

Traditionally, Epiphany marks the end of the festive Christmas period. Epiphany commemorates the evangelical legend of the three kings who came with gifts to greet the newborn baby Jesus. Traditionally celebrated in churches, this festival now moves to the streets of cities and is organized by secular institutions (cultural centers, municipalities) aiming to make it relevant to a wider population.

The festival of the Epiphany is celebrated today in the main cities of Lithuania. The scenario is similar in every city and is based on traditional mysteries performed in churches on that day. In Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, this festival has been renewed and adapted to the new secular environment of modern society through the efforts of the Vilnius Cultural Center.

In my presentation I’ll examine traditional and modern elements, which are included in the scenario of the Epiphany festival in the city of Vilnius. It will be highlighted which idea is emphasized in the scenario and how it corresponds to the traditional festival.