Utena elderate is one of the largest in the district. The elderate has three administrative centres — Pačkėnai, Biliakiemis and Vaikutėnai.
The Assumption Feast takes place in Biliakiemis for two days. The first day features sports competitions, while the second — going to church, also the event, led by the Host and the Hostess, as well as a concert of local musicians and guests. During the feast the community also votes for the most beautiful homestead and the best sportsmen. Other events of the day include the flag raising and lighting of the altar. Before these festivals used to take place on the outdoor stage on the festive shore and now they have been moved to the park near the culture centre.
More about the Assumption Feast in Biliakiemis
Every year the feast begins with a mass, held by Povilas Klezys, the parson of Biliakiemis Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. After the mass all participants gather at Biliakiemis Leisure Centre, raise the flag and light the fire. Biliakiemis women’s ensemble sing Biliakiemis’ anthem. Municipality representatives, guests and local people present their welcoming speeches. The community also celebrates their elderly members, presenting them with woven sashes, flowers and commemorative gifts. Other events of the feast include presentations of new publications, films about the elderate and successfully-implemented projects. The participants of the festival can take a look at several exhibitions.
The feast also features musical intermissions. Since Utena elderate is very fond of various sports competitions, the feast becomes an occasion to congratulate the elderate’s Spartakiad winners and prize-winners. They receive their cups, diplomas and other prizes. Various awards and sincere words of gratitude also go to the organisers of the event and competitions, as well as everyone, who contributed in organising the elderate’s Spartakiad, as well as the parents and grandparents, who brought their children to the competitions and supported them. Also, folk artists and other authors, whose works were exhibited during the feast. The concerts feature not only local amateurs, but also performers from the neighbouring communities. During intermissions all participants of the feast can enjoy fish soup, prepared by the best cooks in this field — Zita and Raimondas Katinai, as well as tasty porridge and refreshing kvass, made by community’s women. There are also all kinds of attractions, relay-races and fun competitions, participated by the young and the old. Winners receive special prizes. Even in spite of not really favourable weather conditions, participants enjoy the warmth of each other’s’ company, good mood and excellent music.
Biliakiemis welcomes everyone to join in their Assumption Feast!