About Us

The Chicago Lithuanian Folk Dance Ensemble "Grandis" was founded in 1953. "Grandis" quickly became—and remains—one of the largest Lithuanian folk dance ensembles in North America; it is also the oldest folk dance group in Chicago and the surrounding area. This year, we are celebrating our 68th year! Our Veterans group has been active for 42 years, while our Childrens Group has been dancing for 34 years!

Since 1953, more than 1,400 dancers have danced with "Grandis"!  Today, our ensemble includes dancers ranging in age from preschoolers to energetic seniors.

The humble beginnings of "Grandis" have grown into a broad repertoire of Lithuanian folk dances. "Grandis" has performed more than 200 dances. In our programs, the dancers perform traditional, folk, and stylized Lithuanian dances. The dances often incorporate Lithuanian customs, folk themes and fairy tales, poetry, folk songs, music, and traditional Lithuanian instruments.

The “Grandis” folk dance ensemble has performed for many Lithuanian communities throughout the United States and Canada. We have also danced in Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia. Some of the most memorable experiences for the dancers have been participating in Lithuanian Song and Dance Festivals and performing in Lithuania in 1992, 1994, 1998, 2003, 2007, 2009, 2014, 2018, and 2024.

Lithuanian folk dance ensembles have played an important role in Lithuanian-American communities. There is no other cultural activity that brings together people of so many different generations. Folk dancing helps Lithuanians better understand and nurture their cultural identity, preserve their ethnic heritage, and maintain their traditions.