Top 5 festivals this summer in Korea

Written by Jennifer Mathieu

Korea is a land of festivals, and summertime is when the country comes alive with colorful and vibrant celebrations. From traditional cultural festivals to modern music festivals, there is something for everyone. With the summer season just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your trip to Korea and experience its unique festival culture. In this article, we will be discussing the top five festivals that are coming this summer in Korea. These festivals are a great opportunity to witness Korean culture, indulge in delicious food, and make unforgettable memories. So, put on your sunscreen, grab your camera, and let’s explore the top five festivals that you can’t afford to miss in Korea this summer.

1. Daegu Chimac Festival

Did you know that Daegu is the center of the Korean chicken industry ? The chicken industry began in Dalgubeol (formerly known as Daegu) to provide a variety of meat to the people who were impoverished after the Korean War. Since the 1970s and 1980s, chicken-related brands have been created. This festival celebrates Koreans’ love for chicken with beer. Daegu Chimac Festival is one of the most iconic party in Korea Summer with busking, Holy land road and outdoor party. Keep this event in your calendar!
Date: August – September
Location: 7, Gongwonsunhwan-ro, Dalseo-gu, Daegu, Republic of Korea

2. Gangneung Danoje Festival

The Gangneung Danoje Festival is a month-long celebration held in Gangneung and its surroundings, featuring shamanistic rituals, traditional music, mask dramas, and popular pastimes. The festival blends Confucian, shamanistic, and Buddhist rituals and aims to protect the region from natural disasters. Visitors can enjoy events such as making festival fans, brewing sacred liquor, and eating Surichiwi rice crackers.
Date: 18 – 25 June
Location: 1, Danojang-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea

3. Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is the largest summer festival in the world, regardless of nationality, race, language and age. It is an experience-type festival where everyone can enjoy different activities together. The first Boryeong mud festival was conducted to promote mud cosmetics based on the proposed mud experience programs for 4 days from July 16th, 1998 at Daecheon beach and it achieved a huge outcome.
Date: 21 July – 6 August
Location: Sinheuk-dong, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do

4. Waterbomb Festival

The Waterbomb Festival in Seoul is a vibrant and unique summer event that takes place annually in the heart of the city. This festival is all about getting drenched in water and having fun with family and friends. It is a colorful and exciting celebration that attracts both locals and tourists alike. The festival features live music performances, food stalls, and, of course, lots of water activities. From water balloon fights to giant water slides, visitors can enjoy a variety of water-based games and activities.
Date: 30 June – 2 July
Location: Seoul, Gwangju, Daejeon, Daegu, Busan, Incheon, Suwon, Sokcho and Jeju.

5. Muju Firefly Festival

The Muju Firefly Festival is a magical celebration that takes place every fall in the pristine environment of Muju, known for its natural habitat of fireflies and the marsh snails they rely on for food. This festival is a unique opportunity to witness the enchanting display of fireflies lighting up the night sky, making it a must-visit event for nature lovers and families alike. The festival offers a range of attractions and activities that provide an immersive experience to learn more about the beautiful flora and fauna that call Muju home. Visitors can enjoy guided firefly-watching tours, nature walks, and cultural performances, along with sampling delicious local cuisine.
Date: 2 – 10 September
Location: 326-14, Hanpungnu-ro, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do