Vilnius is set to host its annual Pink Soup Fest from 29 to 31 May, celebrating the Lithuanian dish šaltibarščiai with a series of new events. The festival will feature a citywide synchronised lunch, known as the Pink Break, and a free Pink Soup Bus connecting key locations, offering a unique cultural experience amidst the summer heatwaves affecting Southern Europe.
The festival, now in its fourth year, has grown significantly, drawing international attention. Last year, it attracted 93,000 visitors, including 17,000 from abroad. Eglė Girdzijauskaitė, Head of Communications at Go Vilnius, noted, "The momentum is turning the festival into a compelling reason to visit Vilnius."
Highlights include a 50-metre pink water slide, a waiters' race, and a walking competition. The Pink Soup Bus will transport festival-goers free of charge, whilst Vilnius Airport and the central railway station will temporarily adopt playful names reflecting the festival's theme.
On 29 May, at noon, the Pink Break will see residents and visitors across Vilnius enjoying šaltibarščiai simultaneously, aiming to create one of the largest collective lunch experiences. Additionally, Halės Market will transform into the Pink Soup Market, hosting Pink Nights with music and social events.
Beyond the festival, Vilnius offers a vibrant summer calendar, including Culture Night on 12 June and the Lithuanian Youth Song Festival from 3 to 6 July, making it an attractive destination for travellers seeking cooler climates and rich cultural experiences
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