The 26th edition of KILKIM ŽAIBU felt like a journey into another world, another dimension, another reality. A world with its own rules, its own atmosphere, and its own unique spirit. Months of preparation, countless hours of work, three days of explosive energy, the exhausting final cleanup... and then another year of waiting until we meet again.
This year was especially challenging. The festival budget reached another record high, and there were many moments of uncertainty about whether everything would go as planned. Behind the scenes, a lot was happening – technical problems, travel mishaps, accidents, lost musicians, flat tires, emergency trips to the medical station, and many other unexpected situations. Even now, I'm sure I don't know everything that happened. What matters most is that the artists hardly noticed these challenges, and our audience was able to simply enjoy what we can now confidently call a successful festival.
Attendance was similar to last year, but we noticed fewer one-day visitors. More people chose to stay for three, four, or even five days, and we welcomed more campers and vehicles than before. This shows that KILKIM ŽAIBU is becoming a planned part of many people's summer. Most of all, we were happy to see your positive energy. Your smiling faces are the greatest reward for all our hard work.
The atmosphere this year was truly special. We felt warmth from both the audience and the artists. Your costumes, horns, creativity, and dedication helped create the unique world of KILKIM ŽAIBU. We apologize for the delayed horn contest, but one thing is certain: whether you wear horns or not, whether you come in full costume or just as yourself, you are always welcome here. Thank you for making our festival so special.
Because of the wet ground at the beginning of the festival, we had to move the Perkūnas Stage. Sometimes unexpected decisions lead to great results. Both stages looked fantastic, the lighting and video crews created an amazing visual experience, and this year's sound received praise from both the audience and the musicians. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.
It is also exciting to see the Folk Stage becoming more important every year. The late-night dances proved that this area has great potential, and we will continue developing it in the future.
The feedback from the artists brought us great joy. We received many kind words in person and on social media. Blood Fire Death appreciated the goat sculpture inspired by the legendary Bathory album cover, Carcass thanked us for the atmosphere and excellent sound, and it was a real pleasure to spend time with Helripper, Messa, Skyclad, Firtan, Kandis, VMO, Sakis Tolis, and all the other artists. Meeting people like them reminds us why we do all of this.
We would also like to sincerely thank the city of Ukmergė for its support. Every year we feel a stronger connection with the local community, and that means a lot to us. Our thanks also go to the team of the President Antanas Smetona Manor Museum, the participants of the traditional crafts and historical program, security staff, medics, technical crews, generator, water and sanitation teams, food vendors, transport services, and waste management teams. Much of your work happens behind the scenes, but without you, this festival would simply not exist.
This year, more than 120 organizers and volunteers, around 30 drivers, stage crews, security staff, and many other people worked together to make KILKIM ŽAIBU happen. Every one of you contributed to the final result. Thank you. I truly believe that the 26th edition of KILKIM ŽAIBU was one of the strongest festivals in our history. It shows that we continue to grow and improve every year.
We hear more and more people calling KILKIM ŽAIBU "the festival of good people." I believe this is the greatest compliment we could receive. Once a year, thousands of people gather here to create an atmosphere of respect, friendship, and sincerity. You are the true heart of this festival.
When the stages fall silent and the festival grounds become empty again, I realize that it all felt like a short journey into another world. But that world never really disappears. It lives on in our memories, our photos, our friendships, and in the excitement of meeting again.
Thank you for your trust. It is a great honor to be part of this community.
See you next year!
Daividas
Festival Organizer
