Our city is known for its traditions. Some events have been taking place for decades, while others are newer but just as beloved. Each season, Lviv has something special to offer. So, we have prepared a list of the most popular city traditions throughout the year, making it easier to plan your visit.
Spring in Lviv
Lviv is a city of spring, as the band Okean Elzy sings. Spring is a magical time to visit Lviv. Just imagine: all the squares are filled with tulips, streets are covered with cherry blossoms, and queues form near magnolias in Stryiskyi Park and the Franko House. A perfect opportunity for bright photoshoots! You can always find the best selection of floral locations on lviv.travel.
Spring suits Lviv, so it’s no surprise that the city celebrates its birthday at the beginning of May. This day is traditionally marked with concerts, excursions, and a grand festive procession led by a king, who ceremoniously hands over the city keys to the mayor.
Easter celebrations at Shevchenkivskyi Hai have become legendary. It’s the perfect occasion to wear your best traditional clothes and join the fun spring dances (haivky) among the historic buildings of this open-air museum.
And don’t forget Oblyvanyi ponedilok, a fun-filled Easter Monday tradition! According to ancient custom, boys throw water on girls. Those willing to take part gather at Rynok Square or Shevchenkivskyi Hai for a playful water fight. Just make sure the weather isn’t too chilly!
On May 18, Lviv joins the annual International Museum Day, offering unique programs at its museums — an opportunity to see something truly special.
For classical music lovers, the Virtuosos of Lviv festival has been running for over 40 years at the end of May. This grand marathon by the Lviv Philharmonic gathers artists from all over Ukraine and beyond, offering two weeks of exceptional musical delight. Many forgotten or long-banned Ukrainian music pieces have been rediscovered at this festival.
Summer in Lviv
Parks are crowded, long lines form at Faini Lody, and children splash in city fountains—summer has arrived! But the city still has plenty of surprises for you. On June 21, Lviv transforms into a giant stage for International Music Day, with music filling parks, squares, cafés, museums, theatres, and every corner of the city. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!
And we'd like to give one summer tip: most museums are located in old stonehouses, making them a perfect escape from the heat. And with the Lviv City Card, you can enjoy great discounts while staying cool.
On the last weekend of August, our favourite Street Food So Good takes place, a street food festival that has become a must-visit for the city's active youth. Besides a variety of food-to-go options, you can discover local producers, meet your favorite influencers, and enjoy an amazing concert program. It’s an event full of style, flavor, and fun, so it's a perfect summer finale.
Autumn in Lviv
With so many autumn events, it’s hard to keep up! The season starts with the European Heritage Days in early September. EHD is a pan-European initiative that highlights the city's cultural heritage. Three days of interesting lectures, fascinating excursions, concerts, and artistic events are waiting for you, opening up unknown parts of Lviv. It’s a great chance to immerse yourself in the past and fall in love with the city even more.
The Book Forum is a real celebration of literature that has been attracting thousands of book lovers from all over the world for over 30 years. Where else can you meet so many favorite authors, engage in fascinating discussions, and discover new literary gems? And, of course, to expand your home library with the latest releases.
Another interesting event that concludes September is the Festival of Contemporary Music “Contrasts”, which has been held at the Philharmonic since 1995. The festival presents “contemporary Ukrainian music in the context of global trends” and showcases a variety of modern styles, genres, and interpretations. Some concerts combine ancient and contemporary pieces, offering a truly unique experience.
What could be better than enjoying cheese and wine on a cosy October day? And with a view at the beautiful Potocki Palace. If you like this idea, we invite you to the Cheese and Wine Festival. Here you will find a rich selection of exquisite wines from Ukrainian producers, as well as a variety of cheeses made according to unique recipes.
Winter in Lviv
Winter in Lviv is all about traditions. Festivities begin with the lighting of the main Christmas tree in front of the Opera House on St. Nicholas Day, instantly setting a festive mood. Just two weeks later, a Nativity Scene (Shopka) is set up in Rynok Square, which contains 7 two-metre-high figures carved from wood, a cradle with Jesus and 3 angels. For over 10 years, it has been fascinating city guests.
On Christmas Eve (December 24), Lviv’s main Didukh (a 4-meter-tall sheaf of wheat symbolizing abundance) is installed at Angel Square, near the Garrison Church. The event begins with a festive procession from City Hall, followed by caroling and traditional holiday treats. The Didukh remains on display until the end of the Christmas season.
One of the city’s most spectacular Christmas traditions is Khoda Zvizdariv (the Star Procession). Hundreds of people carry beautifully crafted stars (zvizda) of different sizes and colors, walking from the Dominican Church through Rynok Square to Angel Square, where they gather around the Didukh for caroling. This stunning event has taken place every year since 2007 at the end of December.
Just a few days later, on January 6 (Epiphany), a grand city-wide Blessing of the Water takes place in front of City Hall, led by clergymen from various denominations. Visitors can take holy water throughout the day.
And what’s Christmas without carols? The Festival Velyka Koliada (The Great Caroling), held at the Church of the Holy Eucharist for 26 years, gathers choirs from all over Ukraine for a heartwarming celebration. The festival runs from December 25 to January 12.
More Traditions for Every Season
Twice a year, in autumn and spring, Lviv hosts the Coffee, Books & Vintage Festival for lovers of good coffee, great books, and items with history. Enjoy talks with interesting speakers, listen to live music, and—if you’re lucky—take home a unique vintage sofa!
For vintage lovers, Tlum&Kram is an absolute paradise. This event gathers Lviv’s trendsetters, all in search of one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing, furniture, and tableware with history.
