European Day of Jewish Culture 2025: “People of the Book” Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025 (Celebrating the 21st Anniversary)

I. Event Overview
The European Day of Jewish Culture (#EDJC) returns to Vilnius for its 21st edition. This year’s theme, “People of the Book,” explores the profound idea that every individual is a “book” and together we form a “living library.” The festival celebrates the diversity, uniqueness, and richness of Jewish heritage through stories, study, and dialogue.

II. Morning Sessions: Education & Heritage
Start your day at the Vilnius Choral Synagogue with deep dives into language and history.

10:30 AM | Hebrew for Beginners: An introductory lesson with Dr. Ruth Reches. Perfect for those who have always wanted to read the Torah in its original tongue.

11:30 AM | Yiddish “Mama Loshen” Lesson: Join Algirdas Davidavičius to learn the language of Ashkenazi Jews and get a rare peek into the Synagogue’s historic kitchen.

11:30 AM | Synagogue Tour: An educational journey through the Vilnius Choral Synagogue led by renowned educator Natalja Cheifec.

III. Afternoon Celebrations: “Cvi Parkas”
From 2:00 PM onwards, the festivities move outdoors for a family-friendly atmosphere.

Sports & Fun: Activities hosted by the “Makabi” Lithuanian Sports Club.

Live Performances: * Students from the Sholem Aleichem ORT Gymnasium.

“Fajerlech”: The celebrated Jewish song and dance ensemble.

Kapela Kotra: Instrumental Klezmer music blending Lithuanian and Belarusian folk traditions.

International Guests: A youth quartet from Israel and Cantor Isidoro Abramowicz from Berlin.

IV. Flavors of Litvak Heritage
Experience the “Way to the Heart” through traditional and sustainable cuisine.

Keila’s Deli Tasting (3:30 PM): Featuring traditional challah with Litvak forshmak and pita with wild forest berry jam.

Sustainability Focus: This session is part of the “Vilnius – European Green Capital 2025” program, honoring Fania Lewando, the pioneer of Jewish vegetarian cooking.

V. Art & Memory
Exhibition Opening (4:30 PM): “And the Bride Came…” by painter Simon Karczmar.

Theme: The paintings capture “Shtetl” life and the beauty of Jewish traditions.

Special Presentation: The artist’s son, Natan Karczmar, will share stories about his mother, Nadia, highlighting the vital (and often invisible) role of women in supporting the arts.

VI. Important Information
Admission: All events are free of charge.

Registration: Mandatory for morning lessons and synagogue tours (links provided in the program).

Food: Jewish delicacies are also available at “Cvi Parkas” and the newly renovated “Pylimo 4” cafe.