Lithuanian agricultural and industrial exhibitions in Kaunas during the period of the First Republic of Lithuania

Agricultural and industrial exhibitions took place during the period of the First Republic of Lithuania. Ten exhibitions were held in total and eight of them took place in Kaunas. The aim of these exhibitions was to present the state of agriculture and industry and to introduce innovations to the Lithuanian people. Thus, many different Lithuanian companies participated. Foreign exhibitors also took part in these exhibitions. The shows attracted tens, sometimes even hundreds thousands of visitors from the provinces of Lithuania and from abroad. This article will focus only on major Lithuanian agricultural and industrial exhibitions held in Kaunas. The aim of the first exhibition was to demonstrate the condition of Lithuanian industry and agriculture in the aftermath of World War II. However, later, the objectives were broadened. There was a desire to compare various exhibitions with each other in order to assess economic and industrial progress, to introduce innovations, to share experience, and to promote competitiveness and consumption. Agricultural and industrial exhibitions grew and expanded in terms of participating firms, the number of visitors, and exhibition turnover. At the same time, however, more restrictions emerged for these exhibitions. Individual exhibitors became subject to selection and, at the 1936 exhibition, foreign firms were prohibited from participating. The Agricultural Society, subsequently known as the Chamber of Agriculture, organized the exhibitions, which were supported by the government. These exhibitions were important events in Kaunas and attracted many people to the city. Therefore, preparation usually started well in advance, sometimes even a year before the opening. Pavilions were built and repaired; the Exhibition Square and the entire city were decorated; and visitor accommodations for the exhibition and additional cultural events were organized in the city. [...]Istorijos katedraVytauto Didžiojo universiteta