Discover Lake Balaton up close
Conventa is once again transforming the way the meetings and events industry uncovers new destinations with its upcoming TBYB BL (Try Before You Buy – Balaton), set for 3 – 5 June 2026. This exclusive boutique gathering promises to shine a spotlight on the hidden gems of one of Central Europe’s most captivating and yet-to-be-discovered MICE regions.
As part of the Conventa Explore series, TBYB BL welcomes a handpicked group of international hosted buyers to discover Lake Balaton up close. Instead of traditional presentations, guests will dive into immersive, thoughtfully curated experiences that naturally lead to impactful, business-focused one-on-one meetings with local suppliers and partners.
For Conventa, the TBYB format is a vital step forward in its ongoing mission to connect international event organisers with emerging destinations throughout New Europe through genuine, experience-led encounters.
A place that reveals itself through experience
At the heart of TBYB lies a simple yet compelling belief: the true essence of a destination is revealed only through direct experience. By blending pre-scheduled B2B meetings with genuine local encounters, this format allows event organisers to grasp not just the practicalities, but also the spirit, accessibility, and unique atmosphere that shape unforgettable events.
Framed by the shimmering expanse of Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, this edition will spotlight a destination where natural beauty, wellness traditions, culinary delights, sustainability efforts, and a refined meetings infrastructure come together in harmony.
“The event is a great opportunity to showcase that the region is still a hidden gem within the European MICE market, offering visitors far more than they might initially expect.”
The journey will lead participants through a tapestry of unique locations, from Hévíz and Keszthely to Badacsony, Tihany, and Balatonfüred, unveiling venues, hotels, and experiences tailored for meetings, incentives, and boutique gatherings. Highlights include networking by the soothing Hévíz thermal lake, exploring the storied halls of Festetics Palace, and unwinding at the brand-new Le Primore Hotel & Spa, a shining addition to the region’s premium hospitality scene.
“As hosts of TBYB BL, we are very excited to welcome meeting planners and industry professionals from around the world to Lake Balaton. The event is a great opportunity to showcase that the region is still a hidden gem within the European MICE market, offering visitors far more than they might initially expect — from high-quality hospitality and gastronomy to sustainability initiatives, wellness experiences, and distinctive event venues. We believe that personal experiences and authentic local connections are the most effective way to demonstrate the destination’s potential, and we are confident that participants will leave with valuable new partnerships and inspiring impressions of the region,” commented Kristóf Sztojanovits, International Marketing Director, VisitBalaton365.
A purposeful format with lasting impact
Conventa Explore events are deliberately intimate, fostering a personalised atmosphere where genuine business relationships flourish. With no more than 25 hosted buyers and an equal number of local partners, every interaction remains purposeful and relevant.
Striking the perfect balance between business and experience has become a hallmark of success. Past editions, including the most recent in Belgrade, have shown that weaving authentic local stories into structured B2B meetings sparks stronger partnerships and enduring collaborations.
Why choose Balaton, and why now?
Unlike large-scale trade shows, TBYB events focus on depth rather than scale. Each participant is given the opportunity to engage in numerous targeted meetings while also experiencing the destination in a way that reflects real event potentials.
“For us, TBYB BL is much more than a professional networking event — it is an opportunity to introduce international buyers to the diversity and character of the Lake Balaton region through first-hand experiences. During the programme, participants will discover not only the workshop itself, but also the destination’s unique combination of lakeside venues, outstanding gastronomy, wellness infrastructure and authentic local experiences. From Hévíz and Badacsony to Tihany and Balatonfüred, we hope to provide guests with a comprehensive impression of the region and demonstrate why Lake Balaton is increasingly attracting international events and incentive groups throughout the year,” summarised Vera Szűcs-Balás, Destination Marketing Specialist, VisitBalaton365.
As the meetings industry seeks out fresh, authentic, and sustainable destinations, Lake Balaton stands out as a natural choice. With its evolving infrastructure, strong regional partnerships, and rising international profile, the region presents a vibrant alternative to Central Europe’s more familiar meeting spots.
Conventa and VisitBalaton365 are setting out to establish Balaton as more than just a leisure escape, but a vibrant, experience-rich hub for meetings, incentives, and boutique business events all year round.
Forging connections that endure
Through its Explore platform, Conventa remains dedicated to linking event professionals with the hidden gems of New Europe. These boutique gatherings open doors to local expertise, authentic adventures, and business opportunities that transcend the ordinary.
With TBYB BL, Conventa invites the industry to venture beyond the familiar and uncover the starting point of their next unforgettable event story.
Learn more about the event here.
