Lithuanians are the people of Lithuania, a country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music, dance, and crafts. The official language is Lithuanian, one of the oldest languages in Europe, belonging to the Baltic language group. Lithuanians have a strong sense of national identity, shaped by their history of independence and resilience. The country regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1990. Today, Lithuanians celebrate various festivals, such as Užgavėnės and Jūratė and Kastytis, which reflect their customs and traditions.