Zalakaros is rolling out a packed lineup at Karos Promenade (Karos Korzó) for Advent, New Year’s Eve, and the New Year period, promising proper festive vibes for families and friends. Expect fairy‑tale stage shows, a lively ice rink, and cheerful Christmas performances that make the countdown to the holidays feel special. Each weekend brings fresh surprises, shared moments, and a warm, glowing atmosphere on the promenade. The hub is at 8749, 16 Szőlő Street, and the calendar runs well into January and February 2026, blending concerts, charity balls, and retro parties with nonstop skating sessions.
Key Dates to Lock In
January kicks off with ice and beats. The open invitation “Everyone on the Ice!” skating program takes over the Karos Promenade (Karos Korzó) rink from January 19 to 25, then returns January 26 to 31 for a second round. In between, on January 24, Balkan Fanatik hit the stage in Zalakaros with their high‑energy mix of Balkan folk and modern beats—an easy pick for a winter night out. One week later, on January 31, the Men’s Day Charity Ball rounds off the month with a dressed‑up evening for a good cause.
February Keeps the Party Going
The momentum doesn’t slow. On February 7, the Retro Carnival Party brings throwback rhythms, costumes, and a guaranteed dance floor. It’s a neat bridge from winter festivities into pre‑spring cheer, with Karos Promenade (Karos Korzó) still anchoring weekend gatherings and seasonal fun.
Where to Stay: Pools, Views, and Spa Time
The hotel scene in Zalakaros sits right above and around the famous local baths, with terraces looking out across the spa only 318 feet away. One standout has four pools—three indoor and one outdoor—plus a 12‑person infinity‑edge jacuzzi, a thermal‑water jet pool filled with water purchased from the city thermal bath, an experience pool packed with features, and an icy plunge basin for brave souls. It’s an easy wellness win after time on the rink.
Close to the Spa, Thermal, and Adventure Bath (Zalakarosi Gyógy-, Termál- és Élményfürdő), AquaTherm Hotel draws you in with a wellness oasis: whirlpool, sauna, 22 rooms, and apartments. Another local favorite sets itself apart with an indoor spa and a rare year‑round outdoor heated thermal pool—the ultimate winter indulgence mere minutes’ walk from the adventure and medical baths.
Families can zero in on the Boni Family Wellness Hotel (Boni Családi Wellness Hotel), right in the center. It’s near restaurants, events, and sights but still cocooned in green. Just 492 feet from the popular Granite Medical, Adventure and Beach Bath (Zalakarosi Gyógy-, Termál- és Strandfürdő) with its 22 pools, the hotel also offers its own tiled experience pool, Finnish and infrared saunas, and a salt room.
Apartment Comforts and Quiet Corners
If self‑catering is more your style, a fully equipped apartment house in the town center offers four separate 538‑square‑foot units, each for up to five guests (with an extra child’s bed for the fifth). There’s a locked car park and a private garden with a grill for easy evenings in. For a low‑key, green‑zone stay, look to separate‑entrance units for four, with kitchenettes, fridges, microwaves, and private bathrooms. Secure courtyard parking included.
Forrás Hotel (Hotel Forrás) sits right by Zalakaros Bath (Zalakarosi Fürdő) and a short stroll from downtown, with 37 double rooms and 10 family apartments. Choose air‑conditioning and extra beds as needed. One‑ and two‑room apartments suit families and friend groups. Rooms come with balconies, bathrooms, TV, phone, Wi‑Fi, and mini‑fridges. The three‑floor building has an elevator.
Eat, Sip, Unwind
Friskó Guesthouse and Restaurant (Friskó Panzió és Étterem) is a homey pick, a short walk from the spa, expanded in 2016 and focused on relaxed stays. For spa‑first travelers, Bath Hotel (Fürdő Hotel) is just steps from the renowned Zalakaros Bath (Zalakarosi Fürdő)—practically on the beach in seconds—with value rates and family suites.
On the forest’s edge, Chestnut Guesthouse and Restaurant (Gesztenyés Panzió és Étterem) delivers peace, woodland walks, a vast terrace with a swimming pool, and genuinely attentive service.
The rustic My Grandfather’s Wine Tavern (Nagyapám Borozója) channels old‑world charm with an interior and garden, Hungarian wines, pálinka, house‑made goat cheese, farmhouse ham, charcoal‑grilled and oven‑fired dishes, plus live gypsy music. It’s open daily from May through October, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. St. Urban Wine Tavern and Guesthouse (Szent Orbán Borozó és Panzió) also welcomes guests in Zalakaros.
Note on Changes
Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs.
