Various cultural changes occurred throughout Lithuania's transformation from a former country of the Soviet Union to an independent Baltic state. Lithuanian is Lithuania's official language, and most Lithuanians are Roman Catholics. Folk is an influential genre on Lithuanian music, literature, and film.
Compulsory education in Lithuania starts with the age of 6 until 16. The primary school is for four years, the basic first stage takes 6 years with students being 10 to 17 years old. After this stage, the senior secondary school starts which last for 2 years and where students can finish with the international baccalaureate.
New Year in Lithuania is celebrated with much pomp and splendor. The major cities of Lithuania including Vilnius, Palanga and Klaipeda celebrate New Year in Lithuania in high spirit of merrymaking. One of the major festivals and events celebrated in Lithuania is New Year.