Some places don’t just tell history—they let you experience it. One of them is the “Stumbras” factory museum in Kaunas. This year, as the factory celebrates its 120th anniversary, it will open its doors to visitors on May 16, inviting them to a special open day event. Three free guided tours will be organized, and registration is already open.

Each visitor will have the opportunity to explore up close the history of one of Lithuania’s most renowned factories, its heritage, and its distinctive role in the country’s industrial development. The museum invites guests to see authentic historical exhibits, hear vivid stories, and gain a deeper understanding of how one of Lithuania’s historic businesses has grown over more than a century and continues to represent the country worldwide.

“The ‘Stumbras’ factory museum in Kaunas is the only one of its kind in Lithuania. Here, visitors can explore and better understand an entire chapter of history that reflects both the country’s industrial development and the people who helped shape it,” says Vidmantė Mickevičienė, Head of Visitor Centres at MV GROUP Production. According to her, the free open day is intended for anyone curious about discovering local heritage and a history spanning 120 years. “We aim to offer visitors a new perspective on the past of Kaunas and Lithuania – through the evolution of industry and technology, the transformation of the factory, and even works of art,” she adds.

A free opportunity to see it all firsthand

On May 16, visitors can join one of three free guided tours scheduled at 12:00, 15:00, and 18:00. Each tour lasts approximately one and a half hours. Afterwards, guests will have the chance to climb onto the roof of one of the buildings and take in the site from above – offering a new perspective on its scale and historical character.

The tours will be led by V. Mickevičienė herself, whose extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of both the factory’s technological processes and its history ensure an engaging experience. “For me, it’s important that people don’t just visit, but also hear an authentic story – one that helps them understand how one of Lithuania’s legendary business names was born and evolved,” she says. According to her, it is precisely this combination of storytelling and firsthand experience that leaves the strongest impression. “Photos or facts can never replace the feeling of walking among buildings that carry 120 years of history and seeing real traces of that era,” she notes.

Unique and exceptional exhibits

During the tours, visitors will hear the story of how and why the “Stumbras” factory was established in Kaunas, the historical turning points it has experienced, and how its role has evolved over time. Over the past 120 years, the site has witnessed the end of the Russian Empire, both World Wars, the flourishing of interwar Lithuania, the long Soviet period, and the transformation of independent Lithuania. Each era has left its mark not only on the factory’s buildings but also on its identity.

“Each historical period was like a new beginning for the factory. Times, systems, and technologies changed, but ‘Stumbras’ always found a way to grow and remain relevant,” says V. Mickevičienė. Today, the factory – managed by MV GROUP Production – continues to strengthen its competitiveness, with its best-known products receiving numerous awards.

The museum features authentic exhibits, including measuring vessels, collections of historical labels, original bottles, production tools, archival photographs, and documents. Among the most remarkable items is a bottle of “Stumbras” vodka that survived last year’s bombings in Ukraine – sent to the museum by partners in the country. Also on display is a painting by Kazys Šimonis depicting the first “Stumbras” brand. His work not only holds significance in Lithuanian art history but also reflects how the brand has long served as a cultural symbol.

Stories of technology – and the people behind it

Another fascinating chapter in the factory’s history is linked to artist Anatolijus Gribas, who worked at the factory for 36 years. Each label was meticulously hand-drawn – like a miniature painting – before being passed on for printing and mass production. This detail serves as a powerful reminder of the craftsmanship, artistic sensitivity, and individuality that once shaped even seemingly technical processes like label design.

“People are deeply moved by these stories, which reveal that everything around us reflects real individuals – their talent and years of dedication,” says V. Mickevičienė.

According to her, for those looking for a weekend plan that is not only interesting but also meaningful, the open day at the “Stumbras” factory museum offers a rare opportunity to connect with Lithuania’s industrial history – experience it firsthand and hear authentic stories in the very place where they began.