Krekenava hosts Žolinė cultural and religious celebrations

The town of Krekenava in Lithuania is hosting the Žolinė celebrations from August 14 to August 21, 2026. Centered around the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Panevėžys district, the week-long event combines religious services with music, traditional crafts, and community gatherings.

Žolinė is a Lithuanian tradition observed on August 15, coinciding with the Feast of the Assumption. The celebration serves as both a religious observance and an agrarian tradition marking the ripening of plants and the harvest. The custom, which has roots in the Aukštaitija region dating back to the late 15th century, emphasizes gratitude for the harvest, the gathering of herbs, and community cohesion.