On 17 and 19 July, events commemorating the 93rd anniversary of the historic Lituanica flight will take place at two branches of the Lithuanian Aviation Museum: the Stasys Girėnas Birthplace Museum in Vytogala (Šilalė District) and the Steponas Darius Birthplace Museum in Darius Village, Judrėnai Eldership (Klaipėda District).
The transatlantic flight of Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas on 15–17 July 1933 remains one of the most significant achievements in the history of Lithuanian aviation. Their feat continues to inspire with its courage, determination and perseverance, and every year their birthplaces bring together local communities, aviation enthusiasts and history lovers to honour their remarkable legacy.
17 July – Commemoration at the Stasys Girėnas Birthplace Museum
The event in Vytogala will begin at 6:00 p.m. The evening programme will combine history, traditional music, aviation and activities for the whole family. Performers will include the Šilalė Cultural Centre traditional band Karšuva, the folklore ensemble Veringa, and artistic groups from the Kvėdarna Cultural Centre.
The highlight of the evening will be a spectacular twilight model aircraft display with fireworks by Donatas Paužuolis, a multiple Lithuanian and world champion in aerobatic model aviation. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the museum free of charge, experience virtual flights by airplane or paraglider, and enjoy activities for children.
19 July – Celebration at the Steponas Darius Birthplace Museum
On Sunday, the celebration will continue from 2:00 p.m. at the Steponas Darius Birthplace Museum. Visitors can enjoy a varied concert programme featuring folk bands, the musical project Trys Divos, the duo Du metrai, and popular Lithuanian performer Saulius Prūsaitis.
The aviation programme will include displays of historic aircraft, fly-pasts, performances by the ANBO aerobatic flying group, Igoris Lobanovas, and hot-air balloons. Throughout the day, visitors will also find a craft fair, children’s entertainment and activities for the whole family.
Both events are free of charge and invite visitors not only to commemorate the legendary Lituanica flight, but also to visit the authentic birthplaces of Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas, where the remarkable stories of these two aviators began.
Admission is free. The programme is subject to change.
