On 15 April, the final of the "Traditional Vilnius Palm 2026" competition was held at the Hauwald Manor in Maišiagala, during which prizes were awarded to the winners and all participants were thanked for their creativity, dedication, and commitment to tradition. Associate Professor Anna Grześ and Elżbieta Jakowska, MA, also took part in the event.
The Vilnius palm, with a tradition spanning several centuries, is one of the most important elements of the cultural heritage of the Vilnius region. The "Traditional Vilnius Palm" competition draws craft enthusiasts from across the region each year. This year's event brought together schoolchildren, young people, and adult creators, who presented their works across several categories — from traditional palms to elaborate compositions. Sigismund crowns, little hearts, mushrooms, wreath palms, and rollers are the characteristic forms that are central to the Vilnius palm tradition.
The participation of representatives of the Branch of the University of Białystok in Vilnius in the event is also connected to ongoing research being carried out in cooperation with the Vilnius District Municipality. Its aim is to better understand how Vilnius palms are perceived by buyers today, and what influences their attractiveness, value, and purchasing decisions.
Further details on the research are available at: Between Tradition and the Market: Buyer Preferences and the Willingness to Purchase Vilnius Palms
Photos: vrsa.lt
