Therme București, Europe’s largest wellness and relaxation center, is set to host the Herbarium Festival from May 8 to May 24, 2026. This event, which has become a global reference in natural well-being, will offer over 800 experiences inspired by herbal therapy, plant rituals, and wellness traditions from 26 countries.

Herbarium Festival: A Paradigm Shift in Well-being

The Global Wellness Institute reports that the global wellness economy exceeded $5.6 trillion in 2023, with botanical therapy being one of the fastest-growing sectors. In this context, Herbarium Festival stands out as a holistic response to the growing demand for natural and preventive wellness solutions.

"We see, globally, a paradigm shift: people are no longer just looking for temporary relaxation, but for practices and rituals that can be integrated into their daily lives. Herbarium is our answer to this need: a space where nature becomes accessible, understandable, and experienced in its full complexity," says Andrea Pantoș, General Manager of Therme București.

Explore 26 Countries in 14 Days

This year’s festival introduces a bold concept where nature is the primary therapeutic agent. The program is structured around three main axes: plant rituals from different cultures, sound therapies, and scientific validation of botanical effects.

  • Rituals and Practices: The public will experience traditions from 26 countries, including Japanese Shinrin-yoku, Moroccan hammam, Scandinavian saunas, Mexican temazcal, Indian Ayurveda, and Romanian herbal infusions.
  • Interactive Workshops: Visitors can participate in workshops on essential oils, natural cosmetics, live aromatherapy sessions, and sensory relaxation in saunas and themed pools.

SoundTree: An Immersive Sonic Experience

A significant novelty of the 2026 edition is the integration of sound as a central pillar, supported by technology and art. The festival will feature soundscapes, soundbaths, and live music focused on natural frequencies.

The main attraction is the SoundTree installation, created in collaboration with sound artist Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith. This unique experience allows participants to interact directly with a sound installation inspired by nature’s rhythms and vibrations.

Herbarium LAB: Science Meets Nature

During the weekends of May 8–10 and May 15–17, Herbarium LAB will transform Therme București into a living laboratory. Visitors can engage in scientific demonstrations, aromatherapy sessions, and live herbal distillations.

Key partners include the Faculty of Biology at the University of Bucharest, offering workshops on ethnobotany, local herbal therapy, natural cosmetics, and the modern uses of traditional plants.

Herbarium Expo: A Showcase of Local Brands

On the Elysium terrace, Herbarium Expo will feature over 50 Romanian brands specializing in natural cosmetics, herbal teas, essential oils, handmade soaps, and botanical supplements. Exhibitors include Aimée, Vivasan, Deplin, and many others, alongside small local producers and herbalists.

"Herbarium Expo is our way of supporting local producers and offering them a highly relevant platform. We don't bring generic brands — we select producers who share the same vision as us: nature as a solution, not as a trend," says Andrea Pantoș.

Access and Useful Information

Participation in Herbarium Festival is included in the Elysium zone access fee. Tickets can be purchased online at therme.ro or on-site, with advance booking recommended, especially for weekends.