Andrius Klimas Author
2026-05-20 10:18
3 min read
From May 29 to 31, the Lithuanian capital will transform into a massive tribute to its most iconic dish: šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup). This year’s “Vilnius Pink Soup Fest” has expanded significantly, involving the international airport, the central railway station, and over 300 business partners. To help visitors navigate the festivities, organizers have launched a dedicated digital map featuring 200 unique offers.
Festival Details
Information for Visitors
Dates
May 29–31
Locations
Over 300 spots across the city
Primary Tool
“Dish Dive” interactive map
Languages
Available in Lithuanian and English
The festival map, developed in collaboration with the Lithuanian food discovery startup “Dish Dive,” consolidates all key flavors and activities in one place. The tool allows residents and tourists to locate the nearest bowl of soup and rate their culinary experiences. The most active participants using the app will be eligible for special prizes.
Vilma Daubarienė, Head of Tourism at the city’s official development agency Go Vilnius, noted that local businesses are becoming increasingly creative. “Every year, the city surprises us with its willingness to contribute. This year, the atmosphere is being shaped not just by restaurants, but by museums, hotels, and transport hubs that have become co-creators of the event,” she said.
During the festival weekend, Vilnius will undergo a visual transformation. The city’s bridges and the chimneys of the Vilnius Thermal Power Plant No. 2 near the Savanorių Avenue roundabout will be illuminated in pink. The railway station will feature special decor, while Vilnius Airport will temporarily be rebranded as “Vilnius Pinkternational Beetport,” welcoming travelers with themed decorations and local flavors.
For active leisure enthusiasts, a new installation is coming to the skate park near the White Bridge (Baltasis tiltas). One of the park’s bowls will be transformed into a giant 3D cold soup bowl. This installation will be open starting May 25, inviting skaters and photographers to experience the unique space.
The gastronomic program this year moves beyond the classic recipe. Restaurants are preparing traditional šaltibarščiai alongside innovative variations, such as yellow cold soup, cucumber gazpacho, and traditional Litvak (Lithuanian Jewish) versions based on ancient recipes.
Dessert lovers can find pink ice cream, kefir-based desserts with wild berries, and cinnamon buns filled with beetroot and raspberry cream. Some venues will offer unconventional pairings, such as homemade beetroot kastinys (a traditional Lithuanian sour cream spread) topped with radish foam.
State institutions are also participating in the festivities. At the Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania, visitors can join a treasure hunt and take on the “pink soup banknote” challenge. On May 30–31, the bank’s inner courtyard will open for a “Pink Route of Wise Money.”
Other cultural highlights include:
* Halės Market: The historic market will change its name for the weekend, feature pink lighting, and host parties.
* Beatrice House: A museum showcasing a unique recipe that traveled from Spain to Vilnius.
* Museum of Wooden Architecture: Visitors are invited to step inside a specially themed “pink soup house.”
* A. Mickevičius Library: An exhibition titled “Pink Soup of Books” will be on display.
As night falls, the city’s nightlife will also embrace the theme. Local bars are planning live music sessions, pink-themed discos, and special cocktail pairings to keep the festival spirit alive into the late hours.
What is šaltibarščiai?
Šaltibarščiai is a traditional Lithuanian cold soup made from beets, kefir, cucumbers, eggs, and dill. It is famous for its vibrant pink color.
When does the Vilnius Pink Soup Fest take place?
The festival is scheduled for May 29–31, with some installations opening as early as May 25.
How can I find participating restaurants?
Visitors can use the ‘Dish Dive’ interactive map, available in English and Lithuanian, which lists over 300 participating locations.
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Informacijos šaltiniai
Straipsnis parengtas remiantis oficialiu „Go Vilnius“ pranešimu ir festivalio programos duomenimis.
Checks
Patvirtintos festivalio datos: gegužės 29–31 d.
Patikrintas dalyvaujančių vietų skaičius (virš 300).
Identifikuotas oficialus technologinis partneris „Dish Dive“.
SourceELTA
ScopeVilnius
Updated2026-05-20 10:18
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Article contextPeople & topics1#7