The Vilnius City Municipal Council has approved updated regulations for the “dainykla” status, strengthening financial support for nightlife, music, and performance spaces in the city. Under the new system, bars, clubs, concert halls, and event spaces will be able to receive up to €12,000 per year, and the “dainykla” status will be granted for a two-year period – 2026–2027. A single venue may receive up to €24,000 in total over this period.
A “dainykla” is an independent performance space dedicated to live music and various cultural initiatives that promote creative diversity, provide a stage for new talent, and strengthen the city’s cultural life. Through this program, Vilnius aims to reinforce infrastructure for small- and medium-scale performances—spaces that often become hubs for emerging creators, experimental projects, and communities.
“Last year alone, we allocated as much as €165,000 in support to nightlife cultural spaces, encouraging them to offer greater cultural diversity to residents, grow more boldly, and become even more open. We also contribute to nightlife safety by educating venue managers, staff, and residents alike. I believe these measures help create a more engaging, diverse, and, of course, safer nightlife,” says Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas.
In 2025, more than 1,300 events were held in “dainyklos”—ranging from theatre, cabaret performances, discussions, and poetry readings to concerts, parties, and festivals. That’s nearly four events per day. Based on these results, the updated regulations aim to further strengthen the program by providing greater financial stability to venues, simplifying some administrative processes, and deepening cooperation between the city and independent cultural spaces.
“Last year clearly showed how much ‘dainyklos’ contribute to Vilnius—they create space for performances, new names, communities, and vibrant evening city life. We are grateful to everyone doing this work every day. After evaluating the first year’s results, we are not only continuing the program but also aiming to respond to the needs and suggestions of the venues—by increasing flexibility, reducing administrative burden, and strengthening partnership with the city,” says Vilnius Vice Mayor Simona Bieliūnė.
Music and culture make a significant contribution to the well-being of both residents and visitors, but independent venues often struggle to sustain themselves, especially when offering cultural activities free of charge. The “dainykla” program aims to strengthen this part of the cultural infrastructure and create conditions for spaces that nurture new talent, expand cultural diversity, and reach different audiences. It also contributes to healthier nightlife through harm reduction measures.
The call for applications for the “dainykla” program will be announced later this month on the Vilnius City Municipality’s competition platform (konkursai.vilnius.lt). The new list of selected venues will be published in summer 2026.
