Photo: Aneta Urbonaitė

What is a Dainykla?

A dainykla is a cultural space dedicated to experimental music performances and innovative events, aiming to break established artistic boundaries and promote diverse expression. These are small, independently operated venuescharacterized by an intimate atmosphere, lower ticket prices, and support for emerging artists, contributing to the cultural vitality of local communities.

The business structure of dainyklos is fragile, often facing financial, regulatory, and competitive challenges, meaning their operation is often based on the enthusiasm of their operators. These venues differ from profit-driven businesses, as they focus heavily on cultural value creation. The unique contribution of dainyklos to the music industry is recognized as an important activity worth supporting and preserving—many now-famous artists began their careers in dainyklos.

The dainykla concept emerged in the United Kingdom, when the rapid decline in the number of these venues led to the creation of a rescue plan. The term reflects the unique role of independent music venues and bars. They are essential to the music industry, urban development, and local communities. This concept was developed to highlight their importance, find flexible solutions to challenges, clarify support opportunities, and ensure operational continuity.

Dainykla status

Performance venues in Vilnius that meet the Municipality’s criteria may be granted Dainykla status. Eligible applicants are legal entities registered in Vilnius that carry out cultural activities during nighttime hours (18:00–06:00).

Dainykla status is granted for the period 2026–2027.

Photo: Alina Pasiuk

Criteria

≥ 40 events per year, published in the Vilnius Night Office event calendar
Stage and/or platform, sound and lighting system.
Food services and/or at least snacks (including at least one plant-based snack) and free table water.
Participation in Vilnius Night Office training sessions.
Participation in social campaigns and other activities beneficial to the development of night-time culture.

Support

To promote creative activity, infrastructure for small- and medium-scale performance venues, and harm-reduction measures contributing to a healthier nightlife, the Vilnius City Municipality provides dainyklos with annual support of up to €12,000.

Eligible Expenses

Fees for creators, performers, lecturers, and experts

Technical implementation of activities

Long-term assets acquisition (up to 30% of allocated funds)

Purchase of copyrights and licenses​

Preparation and promotion of activity advertisements​

Activity administration​ (up to 30% of allocated funds)

Fees for creators, performers, lecturers, and experts​

Technical implementation of activities​

Long-term assets acquisition (up to 30% of allocated funds)​

Purchase of copyrights and licenses​

Preparation and promotion of activity advertisements

Activity administration​

Find Dainykla by location

Photo: Alina Pasiuk

Kriterijai

≥ 50 events per year.​
Stage and/or platform, sound and lighting system.​
Video surveillance system, ensuring visitor and audience safety.​
Food services and/or at least snacks (including at least one plant-based snack) and free table water.
Participation in social campaigns, training, and other activities contributing to nighttime culture development.

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