Celebrating Jonines: Preserving Tradition and Building Community

On June 20, the Valkininkai Cultural Center hosted a special event titled "What is Joninės?" where residents from the town and surrounding villages gathered to share their memories and discuss the cherished traditions of Joninės celebrations.

During the event, participants delved into the rich history of Joninės, also known as St. John's Day, and explored its symbolic customs. They not only revisited old traditions but also discovered new insights into the celebration's origins and meanings. Joninės is celebrated in Lithuania with various customs, such as lighting bonfires to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. The festivities often include singing folk songs, dancing, and engaging in games throughout the night. A particularly enchanting tradition involves young women crafting floral wreaths and floating them on rivers to predict their future, symbolizing love and fortune.

The event aimed to foster a closer connection between generations by using intangible heritage as a means of communication. The interaction and sharing of memories and knowledge helped strengthen the community's sense of unity and ensured the preservation of their cultural heritage.