If you’re dreaming of an escape into vibrant tradition and natural beauty, mark your calendar for September 6, 2025. Fasten your seatbelt (or grab your largest tote bag): the colorful world of Hungarian craftwork is taking over the gardens of the scenic Heisler–Lukács Mansion (Heisler–Lukács-kúria) in Tolna. Thanks to Nono Candle’s energy, a true community celebration is in store — and yes, entrance won’t cost you a single dollar.
What’s in Store?
Wander among stalls brimming with handmade jewelry, decorative objects, and ceramics, touch real leatherwork, and run your fingers across new fabrics and tapestries for your home. Autumn-themed pottery and accessories nudge you toward the change of seasons. For those who love to pamper themselves, discover natural cosmetics and soaps, perfect for sensitive skin or for anyone who appreciates pure scents.
It wouldn’t be a Hungarian craft fair without an array of handmade sweets, jars of jams, fragrant honeys, and spice mixes that could revive even the sleepiest weekday breakfast. Whether you’re buying for your own kitchen or as a gift for a friend, you’ll likely find it impossible to leave empty-handed.
Entertainment & Experiences
Browsing for gifts isn’t the only thing on the schedule. Live music weaves through the crowds, creating a backdrop of joyous sound and relaxed garden party vibes. Bring the kids – or your craft-loving friends – for hands-on workshops with friendly experts. The historic mansion gardens invite you to stroll through avenues worthy of fairytale photoshoots. Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture all the colors and laughter.
Tolna Hospitality for Every Taste
Those lucky enough to stay overnight might check in at the beloved Thelena Hotel (Hotel Thelena), a local favorite since 1997. The region’s passion for wine is evident everywhere; since 1988, the Alisca Wine Society (Alisca Borrend) has made it their mission to showcase and preserve the best bottles from the legendary Szekszárd vineyards.
Speaking of vineyards, the Attila Estate (Attila Birtok) sprawls across 35 acres in the Baranya Valley (Baranyavölgy). They craft wines from legendary Hungarian grapes—kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), kadarka, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, and zweigelt—inviting both novices and wine enthusiasts to sample.
Delicious Detours
No one goes hungry here. Between Szekszárd and Pécs, restaurants serve up weekly menus and cater gatherings of up to 80 guests, even delivering straight to your door. The city’s cheerful patisseries fill display cases with sweet creations, perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert binge.
Coffee lovers are in luck: at the Downtown Dallmayr Café (Belvárosi Dallmayr Kávézó), every flat white or espresso is brewed with meticulous care. Restaurant chefs like Norbert Makk at Bodri take pleasure in reinventing classic Hungarian dishes, pairing them with local wines for a flavor explosion blending old and new. The 247-acre Bodri Winery (Bodri Pincészet) is more than a wine estate: it offers restaurant experiences, event spaces, tours, guest accommodations, and even a Roman-style spa with underground thermal baths, hot tubs, and saunas.
Wine, Dining, and More
Hidden gems include the Borfaragó Cellar (Borfaragó Pince), where tastings unfold in a former woodworking shop, blending artisanal wine with woodcraft for a truly unique atmosphere. The Zichy Park Hotel (Zichy Park Hotel) offers a modern take on Hungarian dishes alongside regional specialties, with vegetarian options for the plant-based crowd. The breezy terrace? The perfect spot for coffee or wine, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Even more vineyards like Várdomb’s focus on versatile and high-quality kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) grapes, but also make room for everything from riesling and merlot to syrah and cabernet franc.
One note from the organizers: all programs and times are subject to change — as every real adventure should be!
