Obchody Święta Konstytucji 3 Maja w międzywojennym Wilnie

ENDuring the 1921–1939 interwar period, the celebrations of the Constitution of 3 May took an important place in the life of Wilno and the Wilno region. Celebrations were organized by city and voivodeship authorities, local military formations and training groups, social and athletic organizations, and labor unions. University students and school-aged pupils took an active part in them. Traditionally, two ceremonial masses, one in Wilno cathedral, the other at Lukiszki Square started in the morning the celebration of the anniversary. Religious services in other denominations were also held at the same time. After these religious observances, a military parade would march down Adam Mickiewicz Street, followed by a procession of the organizers and other participants. Due to the national holiday, different events were organized, such as sports and academic competitions, poetry and literature readings, as well as concerts and theatre presentations. The aim of such celebrations was to instill patriotic spirit among the young generation, to strengthen social solidarity, and to diversify the cultural life of Wilno. This work was written based on the Wilno press of that time. Also, archival materials, memoirs, and the selected works of Polish authors were used. Keywords: Wilno, the Wilno region, the Constitution of 3 May, the Constitution of 3 May national holiday. [From the publication]