If you’re dreaming of a festive autumn escape in 2025, the southern shore of Lake Balaton is set to deliver. Balatonlelle is rolling out a range of programs, from quirky Halloween adventures to family fun days, concerts, theater performances, and delicious feasts. With options for every generation and interest, this lakeside town promises much more than just a dip in the water. Take a look at the can’t-miss events lighting up Balatonlelle from late October to early November.
Family Adventure Day at Rádpuszta
On October 26, Rádpuszta opens its gates to families hungry for excitement. Hop on a charming little train from Balatonlelle (departing at 10 a.m., $2.75 per person, seats limited) or come by bike or car at your own pace. The site buzzes with giant playgrounds, an animal petting zoo, pumpkin carving, handcrafts, an autumn photo wall, and a colossal pirate ship bouncy castle. Local bites and discounted autumn menus keep everyone well-fed, while adults can soak up a taste of local culture. Registration is strongly encouraged, especially if you want a coveted spot on the train.
Hunt for Treasures at the Flea Market
Swing by the open-air stage on October 26 to sift through antiques, retro novelties, and curiosities. For anyone who relishes the nostalgia of vintage finds and the bustling vibe of a market, it’s a unique way to get lost in the past for a few hours.
History Comes Alive in the Szalay Mansion
On October 27, step into the Szalay Mansion (Szalay-kúria, the town’s former mansion turned cultural center) and unearth secrets from the Szalay noble family. Ever wondered what roles an orangutan named Marco and a bear called Tuzla played in an aristocratic household? Find out how the family was tied to wine production, and walk through what life was like at the turn of the century. Let the mansion’s walls whisper their stories during this immersive peek into local history.
The Balatonlelle Wine Hunt
Wine, games, and social media come together on October 28 for the citywide Wine Hunt (Borvadászat). Search for hidden envelopes around town, snap a photo of the card inside, share it on your Facebook and tag @Visit Balatonlelle, then message them your post. Every successful hunter can claim a bottle of quality wine to take home at a prearranged pickup. Ready to rise to the challenge?
Spooky Evenings: Cemetery Tour by Torchlight
On the evening of October 29 at 4 p.m., gather at the cultural center’s entrance for an atmospheric guided walk led by Péter Kovács. By torchlight, explore the Balatonlelle Cemetery, uncover local legends, and pay your respects at the Szalay family crypt. History blends seamlessly with the supernatural on this memorable, slightly eerie excursion.
Halloween Nightlife: Ghosts, Bats, and Ghoulish Tastes
October 30 kicks off the official Halloween excitement. Grab your flashlight and costume for a spine-tingling Ghost and Bat Hunt starting at 5 p.m. in Peace Park (Béke park), which transforms into a Halloween adventure playground for kids, families, and bold souls. The evening also features the Halloween Monster Gastro Tour (RémGasztro), where Balatonlelle’s eateries get a hair-raising makeover with monstrous menu names, creative dishes, and chilling decorations. Don’t miss the fun if you like your food with a side of fright.
Treats, Tricks, and Themed Parties Galore
Trick-or-treating isn’t just for the movies. On October 31 at 4:30 p.m., costumed kids (with accompanying adults) gather in the cultural house park for a multi-stop candy-collecting walk across town, all the way to the pier. Agility games at each stop make the hunt both fun and rewarding. Participation is free, but registration is required.
Elsewhere in town, enjoy Alice in Wonderland-themed sweets at Márton Confectionery (Márton Cukrászda). The shop hands out candy from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with appearances by Alice, the Cheshire Cat, the White Rabbit, and the Queen of Hearts. Try monster-themed desserts like “Lellei Rémes,” spicy hot chocolate, or Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Still in a party mood? Head to Hamburger House (Hamburger HÁZ) for the House of Horrors Halloween Party with costume contests, pumpkin carving, face painting, crafts, treasure hunts, trivia, community games, and endless trick-or-treating.
Basslines and Lights: Halloween Nightclub Bash
For the 16+ crowd, Y Club gets spooky on November 1 with the MYSTECH® Halloween Edition. Expect bone-rattling beats and pulsating bass courtesy of star DJs PUREBEAT, RICK WAYNE, CHRISS JAY, LISSZA, GEGE, and WIZTY. The venue decks itself out in custom Halloween décor to match the thumping afterparty energy.
Eternal Memories: Honoring the Departed
All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 1) invite the community for a reflective ritual in the park outside the cultural center. Craft a message, drawing, or memento at home and hang it on the Remembrance Tree by the Open-Air Stage. Light a candle at the trunk. The spirit of the evening is togetherness, remembrance, and silent solidarity as everyone leaves a mark to honor those no longer with us.
Comedy Night Finale
Wrap up the autumn festivities on November 8 with a laugh. Szomszédnéni Produkciós Iroda brings their two-in-one stand-up act to the Dumaszínház at the Municipal Cultural House. Expect sharp jokes and a celebratory close to a spectacular season by the lake.
