Events & Festivals in South Korea: A Koreana Travel Guide to a few in 2026
- Joanne Colman-Bown
- Sep 23
- 6 min read
When you’re on holiday in South Korea, you’ll want to pack in as many experiences as you can. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the country’s vibrant culture is through its incredible festivals. We’ve put together a quick guide to just a handful of the celebrations you could enjoy during your trip. Of course, there are plenty more, and we’d be delighted to help you discover them so you can make the very most of your South Korea holiday.
South Korea loves to celebrate — and no matter when you visit, there’s likely a festival happening somewhere. From spring flower shows to winter lantern walks, the nations' events offering a fantastic way to experience Korea’s culture, traditions, food, and fun.
Here’s your season-by-season guide to events in 2026. — and a few hidden gems — to help you plan your trip around the city's most joyful events.
🌸 Spring (March – May): Blossoms, Culture & Outdoor Fun
Spring is one of the most beautiful times in Seoul. As the cherry blossoms bloom and the air turns warmer, the city bursts into life with festivals that mix nature, art, and tradition.
Cherry Blossom & Music Festivals – Seoul Yeouido – March & April
Spring in Seoul is magical. While the cherry blossoms bloom, many parks host live folk and pop music performances. Stroll under the pink canopy while listening to acoustic sets, jazz, and K-pop covers — perfect for a relaxed spring afternoon.
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival March/April
Circular paths of petals around the lake, plus dreamy views of Lotte World Tower.
Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe) May 16–17
Held around Buddha’s Birthday, this festival features glowing lantern parades, traditional performances, and temple activities near Jogyesa and Bongeunsa.
Hi Seoul Festival (Spring Edition)
Street art, live music, circus shows, and interactive performances in Seoul’s parks and public spaces.
Royal Culture Festival
Step back in time with cultural events at the city's royal palaces, including Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Think traditional music, costumes, and even night palace tours.
Gwangyang Maehwa Plum Blossom Festival – March 7–16
Alongside the delicate plum blossoms, enjoy traditional folk music and dance performances. It’s a quieter festival where you can really soak in Korea’s cultural rhythms.
Jeju Fire Festival – March 14–16
Jeju Island comes alive with blazing bonfires, traditional drumming, and lively folk performances. It’s interactive, colourful, and full of energy — a spring celebration you won’t forget.
💡 Tip: Take a picnic blanket-join the locals relaxing and enjoying the better weather and the festivities
🎶 Summer (June – August): River Life, Music & Fireworks
Summers in Korea are hot and humid—but also full of energy. With school holidays and long evenings, the country's festivals shift outdoors for music, water fun, and after-dark adventures.
Hangang Summer Festival July/August (dates TBC)
Held across eleven riverside parks, this month-long event features everything from kayaking and ziplining to movie nights and busking.
Seoul World DJ Festival – June 13–14
Modern music lovers, this is for you! Top DJs, dazzling light shows, and an electrifying party vibe make this one of Asia’s hottest electronic music festivals.
Ultra Korea (EDM Festival)
One of Asia’s biggest electronic music festivals. Expect major international DJs, neon crowds, and a party that goes late.
Boryeong Mud Festival (near Seoul, daytrip)
Held in nearby Daecheon Beach, it’s messy, loud, and a whole lot of fun. Mud wrestling, slides, and spa zones — just bring old clothes!
Seoul Street Art Festival
Urban artists take over the streets with bold performances, installations, and visual storytelling.
Sinchon Water Gun Festival
The perfect way to cool off in the city — think massive water battles, live DJs, and fun for all ages.
Seoul Jazz Festival – June (dates TBC)
Enjoy world-class jazz performances in beautiful outdoor settings. From Korean artists to international acts, the festival blends soulful music with the city’s summer energy.
Andong Mask Dance Festival – June (dates TBC)
Experience Korea’s centuries-old mask dance traditions accompanied by live folk music. Colourful costumes, storytelling, and rhythmic performances make this a cultural feast.
Jeonju Sori Festival – July (dates TBC)
Jeonju, the birthplace of pansori (traditional Korean storytelling through song), hosts an incredible summer festival. Listen to soulful singing, live instruments, and contemporary folk collaborations.
Busan International Rock Festival – August (dates TBC)
Rock out to big-name bands and emerging artists in Busan. With festival energy, sea breezes, and stunning coastal stages, it’s a highlight of the summer festival calendar.
💡 Tip: Buy tickets for music festivals early — they sell out fast.
🍂 Autumn (September – November): Colours, Tradition & Local Flavours
Autumn might be South Korea's best-kept secret. With crisp air and vibrant red-and-gold foliage, this is festival season at its cultural best — full of traditional events, street food, and hands-on experiences.
Seoul Lantern Festival First Friday of November → the third weekend of November
Held in November along Cheonggyecheon Stream. Handmade lanterns light up the water with themes from history, folklore, and pop culture.
Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival (dates TBC)
Roll up your sleeves and help make Korea’s most iconic dish with locals and chefs. Plus, learn about the history of kimjang culture.
Chuseok Cultural Events (dates TBC)
Around Korean Thanksgiving (Sept/Oct), palaces and folk villages host performances, crafts, and food tastings.
Seoul Gourmet Week / Night Dining Festivals November (dates TBC)
Held in different markets and neighbourhoods, these events celebrate Korean food with pop-up stalls, chef collaborations, and cooking demos.
Seoul International Fireworks Festival (dates TBC)
A dazzling fireworks competition held over the Han River with global teams lighting up the sky. Best viewed from Yeouido Hangang Park.
Seoul Performing Arts Festival (dates TBC)
A showcase of theatre, dance, and contemporary performances from Korea and abroad.
Changdeokgung Moonlight Tour & Traditional Music Nights – (dates TBC)
Explore one of Seoul’s most iconic palaces under the moonlight with live traditional music in the gardens. Autumn colours and music combine for a magical experience.
Gwangju World Music Festival – October (dates TBC)
Celebrate global and Korean folk music in Gwangju. From traditional percussion to contemporary world music, this festival is perfect for music enthusiasts of all kinds.
Chuncheon International Mime & Street Music Festival – October (dates TBC)
Street performers, folk bands, and theatre transform Chuncheon into a lively stage. Quirky, colourful, and endlessly entertaining — perfect for autumn adventures.
Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) – October 1–10
While not a music festival, BIFF is South Korea’s premier film festival, showcasing world cinema alongside live musical performances, red carpet events, and celebrity appearances. For film lovers and cultural explorers, it’s a must-see.
💡 Tip: Visit one of Seoul’s many parks like Namsan, Olympic Park, or Haneul Park to see peak autumn colours too.
❄️ Winter (December – February): Lights, Warmth & Festive Cheer
Don’t let the chill fool you — winter in South Korea sparkles with seasonal magic. Whether you're into fairy lights or spicy street food, the country's winter festivals make the crisp cold weather feel warm and festive.
Seoul Christmas Festival December 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Cheonggyecheon transforms into a glowing walkway with themed light tunnels, Christmas trees, and festive displays.
Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink December 19, 2025 – February 9, 2026
Skate outdoors with the stunning backdrop of Seoul City Hall — rentals are cheap and the atmosphere is cosy.
Lotte World Christmas Miracle November 23 – December 31, 2025
Inside Lotte World theme park, enjoy festive shows, giant trees, and a sprinkle of artificial snow.
Seoul Light DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) December 18 – 31, 2025
A winter light show with huge-scale projections, digital art, and a festive market vibe.
Namdaemun and Gwangjang Market Winter Events December 2025 – February 2026
Celebrate local food culture with hot snacks, warm drinks, and market-specific winter treats.
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival – January 10 – February 1Winter fun meets folk culture with ice fishing, sledding, and traditional drumming performances. It’s family-friendly, lively, and uniquely Korean.
Taebaeksan Snow Festival – February (dates TBC)
Snow sculptures, folk storytelling, and winter music performances create a festive, cozy atmosphere.
💡 Tip: Try hotteok (sweet pancakes) or roasted chestnuts to warm up while you explore!
🎵 Live Music in Seoul
Seoul is a city that never stops playing. From trendy Hongdae clubs and intimate jazz bars in Itaewon to traditional music performances at palaces and cultural centres, there’s always a live show to catch. Folk, jazz, K-pop, indie rock — you name it. If you love music, even a casual evening stroll in Seoul might turn into a live concert adventure.
South Koreas seasonal festivals aren’t just entertainment — they’re a window into Korean life, traditions, and creativity. Whether you’re wandering under cherry blossoms in spring, dancing by the Han River in summer, tasting kimchi in autumn, or skating past holiday lights in winter, there’s a celebration waiting for you.
✨ No matter when you travel, there's always something magical happening in South Korea.
Need help planning your holiday to South Korea around a festival?
📱 Call us on 03303 412131 or 01284 277260
💬 Or WhatsApp us directly on +44 7432 898359 to chat about your trip
We’ll help you enjoy the best festivals, live music, and hidden gems — all stress-free and unforgettable.
These experiences are even better as part of a journey — check out these itineraries to start planning yours.
