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Vilnius Pink Soup Fest: A Rainbow of Flavors in Lithuania's Capital

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, December 5th 2025 at 9:58 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Vilnius Pink Soup Fest: A Rainbow of Flavors in Lithuania’s Capital

Every year, the city of Vilnius—famed for its baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant arts scene—gets a splash of colour that turns heads and tickles taste buds: the Pink Soup Festival. What began as a quirky pop‑up event a decade ago has evolved into a city‑wide culinary celebration that draws locals, tourists, and foodies from across the globe. For those who missed it this year, here’s a comprehensive rundown of what the festival is all about, how it’s shaped Vilnius’s food culture, and why it’s becoming a must‑visit destination on the foodie calendar.

The Birth of a Trend

The idea of a “pink” soup might sound fanciful, but the festival’s roots lie in a simple, yet daring, marketing stunt. In 2013, a small group of culinary entrepreneurs and creative marketers decided to turn a seemingly ordinary soup—beetroot, of all things—into a statement piece. By adding a splash of cream, herbs, and a dash of artistry, they produced a glossy, rosy bowl that was nothing short of Instagram‑ready.

Word of mouth, coupled with a social‑media push, turned the first edition into a minor buzz. By 2016, the event had secured a formal slot on Vilnius’s cultural calendar, and in 2018 it officially received backing from the city council and a number of local restaurants and food cooperatives. The festival now runs annually for a weekend in late September, just as the city’s late‑autumn light turns golden.

The Lineup: More Than Just Beets

While beetroot remains the star of the show, the festival’s menu has expanded dramatically. According to the latest edition (2023), the line‑up includes:

In addition to these “pink‑ish” soups, the festival has embraced bold colours and unexpected pairings. A new, experimental “pink” variant featuring roasted carrot, saffron, and a hint of citrus was introduced in 2022, showcasing the festival’s commitment to innovation.

The vendors aren’t limited to food. Many bring complementary drinks—hand‑crafted kombucha, cold‑pressed juices, and artisanal teas—that accentuate the soup’s flavors. On the sidelines, live cooking stations let attendees watch chefs whip up a bowl in real time, while a “DIY soup” booth encourages guests to experiment with their own blend of ingredients and garnishes.

A Cultural Experience

The Pink Soup Festival isn’t just about food. It’s a celebration of community, sustainability, and creative expression. In 2021, the event partnered with the Vilnius Food Bank, inviting participants to donate portions of their soup to those in need—a poignant reminder of the city’s commitment to social responsibility.

The festival’s ambience reflects Vilnius’s artistic vibe. Street performers, local musicians, and even a pop‑up art installation featuring giant, translucent soup bowls add to the visual feast. The event usually takes place in the Vilnius Old Town’s main square, but it has expanded to nearby parks and galleries to accommodate larger crowds.

One of the festival’s most beloved traditions is the “Pink Soup Parade.” In 2023, more than 200 volunteers carried colourful, illuminated soup ladles—each filled with a different pink soup—through the historic streets, turning the city into a moving mural of edible art. The parade concluded at the city’s main square where a grand “tasting” table was set up for everyone to sample a bit of everything.

Practical Information

Dates & Hours
The festival typically runs from Friday to Sunday in late September. Early‑bird discounts are often available for tickets purchased two weeks in advance.

Tickets
- General admission: €12
- VIP Experience (includes a private tasting session and behind‑the‑scenes tour): €45

Location
- Main Venue: Vilnius Old Town Square (Pagrindinė gatvė)
- Secondary Stalls: Trakai Hill, Šv. Gertrudos street

Transportation
Public transport (buses and trams) is free for festival attendees. The city also offers a “Pink Soup Shuttle” that runs between major transit hubs and the festival site.

COVID‑19 Protocols
All participants are required to show proof of vaccination or a negative rapid test. Mask mandates are currently lifted, but the festival encourages the use of reusable or biodegradable utensils.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

1. A Feast for the Eyes and Palate
   Each soup is a vibrant, edible work of art, served in colourful bowls that make for instant Instagram content.

2. Culinary Innovation
   The festival’s chefs are constantly experimenting—think beetroot‑saffron, carrot‑citrus, or even a chocolate‑infused red‑pepper soup. You’ll get to taste culinary trends before they hit the mainstream.

3. Community Spirit
   From soup donations to local musicians, the festival nurtures a sense of belonging and support for Vilnius’s creative community.

4. Cultural Immersion
   The parade, live music, and pop‑up art installations let you experience Vilnius beyond its historic landmarks.

5. Affordability
   With a single ticket, you can sample dozens of soups, drinks, and desserts—an experience that usually costs much more if purchased separately at local restaurants.

Final Thoughts

The Pink Soup Festival has successfully turned a simple culinary experiment into a citywide celebration that marries food, art, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a curious traveler, or someone simply looking for a colorful day out, the festival offers a unique taste of Vilnius’s spirit. So next September, don’t miss your chance to dip your spoon into the pinkest soup in Eastern Europe and immerse yourself in a day of creativity, generosity, and, above all, deliciousness.