Baltic Day Celebrated at Japan’s EXPO, Honoring Unity and Culture

To commemorate the 36th anniversary of the Baltic Way, Baltic Day was celebrated at EXPO 2025 Osaka in Japan with a rich cultural program. During the event, visitors had the opportunity to experience Latvian and Lithuanian Song and Dance Festival traditions—recognized on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list—explore the national values of both nations in a modern and engaging way, and join hands in a symbolic gesture of unity that defines every strong nation.

August 23 is a significant date for the Baltic States, marking the day 36 years ago when nearly two million people joined hands to form a human chain through all Baltic countries, demanding freedom and independence. In honor of this historic moment and as a testament to the close cooperation between Latvia and Lithuania, dignitaries from both countries stood side by side at the Baltic Day event. These included Šarūnas Birutis, Lithuanian Minister of Culture; Dace Vilsone, State Secretary of the Latvian Ministry of Culture; Ambassadors to Japan Zigmārs Zilgalvis (Latvia) and Aurelijus Zykas (Lithuania); Lāsma Līdaka, Latvia’s Commissioner General for EXPO 2025 Osaka; and Lina Antanavičienė, Lithuania’s Commissioner General for EXPO 2025 Osaka. They were joined by friends of the Baltic Pavilion, artists from both countries, and several hundred visitors.

Hand in Hand – From the Baltics to Japan

The concept of the Baltic Day event—“Hand in Hand”—continues the overall theme and message of the pavilion: “We Are One.” It highlights the interaction between people, nature, and technology, as well as the unity of regions and the world in striving to learn from each other and act together for a more sustainable future. This resonates strongly with the Song and Dance Festival traditions of Latvia and Lithuania, and the historic Baltic Way of 1989.

A special moment of remembrance was held during the event, where more than 500 pavilion visitors joined hands to form a symbolic “We Are One” circle—expressing unity and solidarity.

Glimpse into Song and Dance Festival Traditions

To celebrate the rich Song and Dance Festival traditions of Latvia and Lithuania, a special cultural program was held on the Pop-Up Stage.

Latvia was represented by the folk dance ensemble “Vektors”, who performed traditional Latvian dances. Their performance was enriched by live post-folk music led by Katrīna Dimanta, creating a vibrant and modern interpretation of age-old traditions.

Meanwhile, Lithuania showcased its renowned choir culture with performances by the Lithuanian Cultural Leaders Choir, joined by the Japanese AK Choir, symbolizing cross-cultural harmony and friendship.

Inside the Baltic Pavilion, visitors were invited to participate in a traditional Latvian knitting workshop and a Lithuanian “sodai” (straw ornament) workshop. Guests also had the opportunity to view an exhibition of traditional costumes from both countries, offering deeper insight into the cultural heritage and craftsmanship that define the region.