Lithuanian Small Capitals of Culture

Every year small towns and village communities can become Lithuanian Small Capitals of Culture. One small capital of culture is elected in each out of 10 Lithuanian districts by organising an open call. The goal of the programme is to foster cultural activity and creativity in smaller regions by engaging their communities, businesses, patrons and youth and making art and culture accessible to everyone. The programme is initiated by the Lithuanian Village Communities' Association. Partners include the Lithuanian Ministry of Culture, Association of Local Authorities in Lithuania and Association of Municipal Elders. The programme contributes to the strengthening of cultural traditions in the regions, making professional art accessible to village communities and developing cultural tourism and cultural life in the regions. The programme also helps to initiate cultural exchanges and new cultural projects between the small capitals of culture and encourages their continuation. During the period from 2015 to 2019, 40 towns and villages were awarded the title of the Small Capital of Culture.