Be2gether or B2G was the largest annual music and arts festival in Baltic countries. Established in 2007, it took place in Norviliškės, Lithuania, just a few meters from the border with Belarus. In 2007 attendance was estimated at 7,000–8,000, while it increased to 12,000 in 2008., and in 2009 it reached 13,000.
About the festival
Be2gether was created with a slogan Music Opens Borders to unite people, despite the differences in their culture, nationality, age or social position. To underscore this goal, the festival is held in the so-called Dieveniškės panhandle: Lithuanian territory surrounded by Belarus on three sides. The area is remote and is difficult to reach, as travel across border is restricted as Lithuania is a member of the European Union and Belarus is not. In 2008, Belarusians could receive the needed visas without a fee if they traveled to the festival. Due to festival's proximity to the state border, special security measures have to be undertaken to prevent people from inadvertently crossing the border. The festival is situated in the historic Vilnius Region, inhabited by peoples of Lithuanian, Polish, Belarusian, Russian nationalities. The RenaissanceNorviliškės Castle reminds the visitors of shared history under the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Be2gether represents different musical flavors, including rock, electronic, world and alternative music. The festival invites mostly international bands. In addition to musical performances, the festival offers other activities, including craft studios, cinema in the open air, sport games, music and dance lessons, sculpture park. The children are offered daycare with their own activities.
Be2gether 2010
The fourth festival was held on June 25–27, 2010. Be2gether announced that performing bands will include
The first festival was supported by two large scenes and club tent. Part of the money gained from tickets selling was donated to children from Chachersk, injured by the nuclear disaster at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. A DVD of the first festival was distributed with tickets for Be2gether in 2008. The festival boasted performances by 32 artists, including:
Bans
Buses with festival guests in 2008 were held up on the Belarusian side.