On October 24, 2025, something truly joyful (and delicious) will happen at Krishna Valley (Krishna-völgy) in Somogyvámos. At the heart of the celebrations is Govardhana-puja, the happiest—and literally sweetest—event in Krishna Valley’s busy festival calendar. Normally one of the most popular religious festivals for locals, it’s also beloved by thousands of visitors from all over Hungary and beyond. For one day, Krishna devotees remember an ancient miracle and its meaning with singing, dancing, hand-feeding the cows, and sharing immense quantities of homemade vegetarian treats.
The vibe is simple: everyone who comes is welcome, and everyone receives. Throughout the day, Krishna devotees travel from all corners of the country, each bringing their own plates and baskets filled with candy and sweets for the occasion. By day’s end, more than a ton—over 2,200 pounds—of sweet treats are offered to Krishna and his companions, all homemade from the purest vegetarian ingredients. Using Sanskrit prayers and hymns, the food is blessed and then distributed among devotees, guests, and locals, including nearby families and children.
A Festival with Stories and Sweets
Govardhana-puja isn’t just an excuse to overindulge in sugar (though, honestly, feel free). It’s tied to one of the most legendary stories in Hindu tradition. According to the ancient tale, when Indra, the god of rain, unleashed a devastating flood on the village of Vrindavan, Krishna raised the massive Govardhana Hill (Govardhana-hegy) above his head and held it aloft for seven days, creating an umbrella to protect the villagers and their cattle from the deluge.
Every year, Krishna Valley brings this story to life in vivid color, with joyous music, swirling dance, and a unique community spirit. At the celebration’s peak, a massive “prasadam mountain” rises up: an edible, ceremonial mountain formed from thousands of delicacies, ready to be shared by all. Every detail is designed to create a special sense of inclusion and spiritual renewal. Besides the food, lively processions, and colorfully dressed crowds, there’s a feeling that you’ve stepped into another world.
The Setting: Europe’s Largest Eco-Village
The venue for this extravaganza is worth a visit in itself: Krishna Valley, tucked in a picturesque corner of Somogyvámos, about 19 miles from both Lake Balaton (Balaton) and the city of Kaposvár. Krishna Valley is not only home to Hungary’s largest Krishna devotee community but also one of Europe’s biggest eco-villages. Spanning about 640 acres and shaded by over 250,000 trees, the valley bursts with scenic ponds, flower gardens, and panoramic views. The grounds offer endless opportunities for strolls, peaceful moments, and—for the meditative among us—quiet reflection beside the gentle Yamuna River (Yamuná-folyó).
Visitors are invited to experience the unique spirituality of the community through service on the organic farm, by participating in communal feasts, or by joining the morning and evening temple programs. Whether you seek lively company or a bit of solitude, it’s a setting that suits both: take long reflective walks, join the festive celebrations, or simply breathe in the fresh countryside air.
Stay the Night and Make it a Getaway
If a day isn’t enough, the festival offers plenty of guesthouses for overnight stays. Rooms can be booked, giving guests an immersive look at daily life and the unforgettable nighttime tranquility of this remote community. It’s a chance to unplug completely and settle into a slower rhythm.
More Than Just Sweets
Though the Sweet Festival is the center of attention, Krishna Valley’s neighbors also offer a range of culinary delights and wine experiences. From family-owned vineyards growing Italian Riesling (olasz rizling), Rhine Riesling (rajnai rizling), Zeus (zeusz), Blaufränkisch (kékfrankos), and Pinot Blanc (pinot blanc), to unique local restaurants with lakeside views, there’s a flavor adventure waiting just outside the festival gates. Chapel Hill wines (Chapel Hill) and sparkling specialties hail from the sun-soaked southern shores of Lake Balaton, with boutique shops and cellars offering tastings and breakfast options.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy Fornetti pastries, grilled sandwiches, house-made lemonade, and desserts; winters bring a cozy café atmosphere. There’s even a fish-and-pancake shop in Balatonszemes offering everything from fried fish to Hungarian fried bread (lángos) and pancakes, plus a generous beer list including Czech and Hungarian craft brews.
Krishna Valley’s Sweet Festival is more than just a feast for the taste buds. It’s a lively, vibrant, and colorful opportunity to indulge every sense—to discover ancient stories, savor extraordinary sweets, and soak up the easy spirit of one of Europe’s most unique communities.
