On April 9, a Palm Weaving Workshop took place at the Branch of the University of Bialystok in Vilnius. The event aimed to familiarize participants with the rich and vibrant tradition of crafting Easter palms—an essential part of the culture and heritage of the Vilnius region. Attendees had the chance not only to learn practical skills but also to create their own handmade palms.
The Vilnius palm has been a symbol for the people of the region for centuries—representing not only the March Kaziukas Fair but also the Easter holidays. These colorful arrangements, made from dried flowers, grains, and herbs, are carefully handcrafted and traditionally blessed on Palm Sunday, which this year falls on April 13. According to Polish tradition, the palms are brought to church as a sign of faith and a deep connection to a centuries-old heritage.
The workshop was led by experienced palm weavers from the Vilnius suburb of Wajwodziszki – Stanisława Rynkiewicz and her daughters, Alina and Renata. These remarkable women have been passionately preserving and promoting the art of Vilnius palm weaving for over five generations. During the workshop, they shared their knowledge, spoke about their family’s history, explained the techniques of palm making, and discussed the rich symbolism associated with this tradition.
