ŽEMAITIU GĪVASTIS – THE SPIRIT OF SAMOGITIA

ON 22 MAY 2027, FROM 4 PM, WE INVITE YOU TO “ŽEMAITIU GĪVASTIS”, A FESTIVAL OF TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AND CULINARY HERITAGE!

The Samogitian Museum “Alka” organises Žemaitiu gīvastis, a unique festival of traditional crafts and culinary heritage held at the Samogitian Rural Museum. The only event of its kind in the Telšiai district, the festival celebrates ethnic culture while highlighting the distinctive identity and cultural significance of the Samogitian region.

There is something for everyone at the festival: some come to savour traditional delicacies and enjoy a refreshing drink, others to stroke a horse or explore the play area tucked away inside a cosy tent made of traditional woven blankets. And for those captivated by the music, singing and dancing late into the night, the festivities are simply too good to leave.

Recognising the festival's cultural significance and importance to the region, the Telšiai District Municipality has included Žemaitiu gīvastis in its list of priority events every year since 2022. The project also receives partial funding from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania.

The Samogitian Rural Museum is the only open-air museum of its kind in Samogitia, offering visitors a glimpse into rural life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Last updated: 13 October 2026