Vilnius Lights Up as European Capital of Christmas: A Magical Start to the Festive Season in 2025

Published on November 30, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Vilnius, the European Capital of Christmas 2025, officially kicked off the festive season with the lighting of its iconic Christmas tree in Cathedral Square. This year’s Vilnius Christmas tree is a stunning 20-meter natural spruce, embracing traditional red and gold decorations. The city has become a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic holiday experiences, and this year’s tree lighting ceremony has drawn thousands of visitors. Vilnius is known for its unique, award-winning Christmas trees, which capture the spirit of the season with themes that set trends globally. The city’s transformation into a winter wonderland offers a magical experience that blends nostalgia with innovation, making it a perfect stop for holiday enthusiasts.

Vilnius Lights Up with the Iconic Christmas Tree
The festive season in Vilnius officially began with the much-anticipated lighting of the Christmas tree on November 29, 2025. This tradition marks the start of the city’s celebration as the European Capital of Christmas. Thousands gathered in Cathedral Square, eager to witness the stunning tree lighting ceremony. Known for its unique and breathtaking Christmas trees, Vilnius has been recognised internationally, having been ranked first for two consecutive years by European Best Destinations. Each year, the city adopts an original theme, setting trends in holiday decorations. This year’s tree features a traditional red and gold design, aligning with a growing desire for nostalgia and authenticity during the holiday season.

The theme of the tree this year reflects the spirit of the season, embracing classic festive colours and symbols. The combination of traditional themes and modern aesthetics showcases Vilnius’ ability to blend historical charm with contemporary festive experiences. As the Vilnius Christmas Tree 2025 is unveiled, the city transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland, attracting tourists from all over the world who want to experience the magic of Christmas in a city renowned for its festive beauty.

A Traditional yet Timeless Design for 2025
The 2025 Vilnius Christmas Tree stands tall at 20 meters and covers an impressive 205 square meters, making it a stunning focal point in Cathedral Square. The tree is adorned with 25,000 warm white LED lights and 400 ornaments, creating a glowing spectacle for visitors to enjoy. This year’s theme is particularly notable for its classical design featuring red and gold colours, which resonate with the current global trend of returning to traditional holiday aesthetics. This emphasis on timeless beauty offers visitors a chance to connect with the nostalgic holiday experiences that many crave in times of economic uncertainty, according to PwC’s 2025 Holiday Outlook.

The city also introduced a new tradition with a 3-meter-high viewing platform that allows visitors to admire the tree from above, offering stunning photo opportunities. As the tree lights up, it becomes a symbol of joy and warmth, bringing people together to celebrate the holiday season. The tree, which is a natural spruce donated by residents of Vilnius District, continues the city’s commitment to sustainability and local community involvement.

Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas – A New Tradition
To add more excitement to the festive season, Vilnius introduces a new tradition called Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas. This one-day event on December 13 is designed for those who can’t wait for Christmas to arrive. The event will fill the city with festive spirit, featuring decorated trains that bring visitors into the city and a special Christmas currency to enhance the experience. A 200-strong choir, free guided tours, and a Christmas card postal service are just a few of the exciting activities planned. The city transforms into a festive playground, evoking the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a child.

This new event adds an extra layer of excitement to the city’s already packed holiday calendar. It provides an opportunity for both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit early, setting the tone for a season full of joyful celebrations and cherished moments.

Vilnius Christmas Town – A Magical Christmas Market
The heart of the holiday festivities in Vilnius is the Vilnius Christmas Town, a vibrant market in Cathedral Square. Running from November 29 to December 28, this market features 48 wooden huts arranged in a promenade style, offering visitors a chance to shop for handmade gifts and enjoy festive treats. Local businesses and artisans showcase their products, including gingerbread, mulled wine, and handmade wooden toys. It’s a perfect spot to experience the charm of the city’s holiday season while supporting local craftsmanship.

Among the festive highlights is a two-storey Christmas carousel, standing 10 meters high, created by Italian artisans. This carousel provides fun for all ages, making it a great family-friendly attraction. The market’s selection of gifts, foods, and festive experiences gives visitors a full Christmas experience in one of the most picturesque squares in Europe.