The “Dancing of Šyvis” (the White Steed) is a unique tradition of the Vilkaviškis district. This custom is kept alive by ordinary townspeople, self-taught musicians, and local high school students. Recently, the tradition has garnered increasing attention: it has been featured in the press, a short film was produced about it, and in 2022, it was officially included in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
We are delighted that this afternoon event has become a tradition itself, drawing in so many practitioners and curious guests. This year, we had the exceptional opportunity to see not only the performance by the Gražiškiai community but also variations of the “Šyvis” dance prepared by guests from Gudeliai and students from the Gražiškiai Gymnasium.
This only proves that the “Dancing of Šyvis” remains a relevant, engaging, and meaningful custom that unites both the community and different generations toward a common goal. We extend our special thanks to Gražiškiai Gymnasium teacher Vilma Brazauskienė, Gudeliai community chair Daiva Bliūdžiuvienė, and Gražiškiai community chair Rita Vasiliauskienė, as well as to all of you who visited and helped create this celebration together.