Best of Budapest & Hungary

‘Jazz, Wine, Balaton!’ is the slogan of this annual summer fest, which is a winning combo of great wines and an array of international star performers at Lake Balaton.

Organized by a local winery, Homola Pincészet and the Municipality of Paloznak, the fest is one of Hungary’s most charming summer events: the streets in the tiny village of Paloznak fill with music and people strolling, with a wine glass in hand, and the garden of Folk House turns into a live music venue. The main stage is traditionally set up on the edge of the village, and the audience is encouraged to lounge in the grass. The festival also stands for quality in terms of gastronomy: the most popular restaurants of Lake Balaton's north shore will be catering. The picnic vibes include picnic baskets, cooled wines, local farmers’ delicacies (such as artisanal cheeses and hams, ice cream and pálinka variations) and picnic blankets. Paloznak Jazz Picnic presents a star-studded program this year: the international and Hungarian line-up includes Rick Astley, The Jacksons, The Brand New Heavies, Maceo Parker as well as the Peet Project. During the festival, a dedicated bus service will transport guests between Paloznak and their accommodations in nearby towns such as Balatonfüred, Csopak, Balatonalmádi and Alsóörs.