When the trees are adorned with the most beautiful colours of autumn, when silence descends on the city earlier and earlier in the evenings, and the coolness reminds us of the approaching winter, a longing begins to stir in people's hearts — a longing for light, cosiness, and closeness. This is a time when every tiny candle becomes a little miracle, and memories of our loved ones warm even the coldest evening. The holidays that have been part of Lithuanian tradition for a long time — All Saints' Day and the Day of the Dead — encourage us to pause, look up at the sky, and quietly give thanks to those who have passed away but remain with us — in our thoughts, stories, and hearts.
For the 24th consecutive year, the Vilnius University Students’ Representation at Kaunas Faculty invites residents and visitors to Kaunas to participate in the sensitive, light-filled, and memorable initiative — "The River of Souls". On the evening of November 1st, when the city is immersed in the tranquillity of autumn, a path lit by hundreds of small lights will shine from the fountain on Laisvės Avenue to St. Michael the Archangel Church. It is a symbolic river of souls, connecting the past and the present, the living and the deceased. Each candle is a light of remembrance, a silent sign of gratitude and love.
This year, sustainable LED candles will be used at the event, allowing each participant to contribute to environmental protection while enjoying a warm glow that not only warms the heart but is also friendly to nature.
At 6 p.m., participants gathering at the Cathedral will be welcomed with music and warmth — a concert by Andželika Martinkutė, Ugnius Šerkšnas and Dovydas Šernas will take place. Their songs will fill the evening in Kaunas with peace, hope, and light, allowing each listener to pause for a moment and immerse themselves in the silence of memories.
“The River of Souls” is not just a tradition. It is a living path of remembrance that connects people, stories, and feelings. It is an evening when the city is filled with light — not only from candles and light bulbs, but also from the light in people's hearts. Let this evening be an opportunity to pause, remember, give thanks, and share the light with those around us. Let Kaunas shine with love, remembrance, and togetherness that evening.