The Most Beautiful Seasonal Festivals in Korea


South Korea is a country that embraces all four seasons, and each season brings a variety of unique and exciting festivals. From cherry blossoms in the spring to colorful autumn foliage and dazzling winter lights, there is always something to celebrate. These festivals offer a perfect blend of tradition, nature, and entertainment, making them a must-see for travelers looking to experience the heart of Korean culture.

Spring Festivals – A Celebration of Blossoms and Traditions

1. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (진해군항제)

Every spring, the city of Jinhae transforms into a pink paradise as over 350,000 cherry blossom trees bloom. The Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station are the most famous spots, where cherry blossoms form a stunning tunnel over the walkways and railway tracks. Visitors can enjoy street performances, local food stalls, and night illuminations under the blossoms.

When: Late March – Early April
Where: Jinhae, South Gyeongsang Province

2. Jeju Canola Flower Festival (제주 유채꽃 축제)

As cherry blossoms bloom in the mainland, Jeju Island is covered in fields of bright yellow canola flowers. This festival offers breathtaking landscapes, scenic photo spots, and flower-themed activities like cycling through flower fields.

When: March – April
Where: Jeju Island

3. Lotus Lantern Festival (연등회)

Celebrated in honor of Buddha’s Birthday, this festival features a magnificent parade of thousands of glowing lanterns illuminating the streets of Seoul. The highlight is the Jongno Lantern Parade, where visitors can witness elaborate dragon-shaped lanterns and traditional performances.

When: Late April – Early May
Where: Seoul

Summer Festivals – Music, Lights, and Water Fun

4. Boryeong Mud Festival (보령머드축제)

One of Korea’s most famous summer festivals, the Boryeong Mud Festival is a wild and fun-filled event where visitors can play in mud pools, participate in mud wrestling, and enjoy water slides. The festival takes place on Daecheon Beach, making it a perfect combination of adventure and beach relaxation.

When: July
Where: Boryeong, South Chungcheong Province

5. Busan Sea Festival (부산바다축제)

Held at Haeundae Beach, this festival is a paradise for beach lovers. It features live concerts, cultural performances, and thrilling water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. The festival showcases the vibrant summer culture of Korea’s second-largest city.

When: Early August
Where: Busan

Autumn Festivals – A Symphony of Colors and Tradition

6. Andong Mask Dance Festival (안동국제탈춤페스티벌)

Andong is known as the heart of Korean tradition, and this festival celebrates the ancient art of Korean mask dancing. Visitors can enjoy traditional performances, folk games, and mask-making workshops, all while experiencing the historic beauty of Hahoe Village.

When: Late September – Early October
Where: Andong, North Gyeongsang Province

7. Seoul Lantern Festival (서울빛초롱축제)

As autumn deepens, Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul is illuminated with hundreds of stunning lantern displays, ranging from traditional Korean designs to modern artistic creations. Visitors can stroll along the stream, write wishes on lanterns, and enjoy street performances.

When: November
Where: Cheonggyecheon, Seoul

Winter Festivals – Snow, Lights, and Ice Adventures

8. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (화천산천어축제)

This ice fishing festival is one of Korea’s most exciting winter events. Visitors can drill holes into the frozen Hwacheon Stream and try to catch sancheoneo (mountain trout) with their hands or fishing rods. The festival also features ice sledding, snow sculptures, and winter sports activities.

When: January – February
Where: Hwacheon, Gangwon Province

9. Taebaeksan Snow Festival (태백산눈축제)

Located in Korea’s snow-covered Taebaek Mountains, this festival is a winter wonderland filled with massive snow sculptures, sledding slopes, and snow-themed exhibitions. It’s the perfect place to experience the magic of winter in Korea.

When: January
Where: Taebaek, Gangwon Province

10. Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival (아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원전)

During winter, the Garden of Morning Calm is transformed into a glowing fantasy land with thousands of LED lights decorating trees, gardens, and bridges. This romantic and mesmerizing festival is one of Korea’s most popular winter attractions.

When: December – February
Where: Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province

Best Time to Visit Korea for Festivals

Each season offers a unique charm, and the best time to visit depends on what kind of festival experience you want.

  • Spring (March – May): Ideal for flower festivals and cultural celebrations.

  • Summer (June – August): Perfect for beach festivals and outdoor fun.

  • Autumn (September – November): Best for traditional festivals and lantern events.

  • Winter (December – February): A great time for ice festivals and illumination events.

Essential Tips for Enjoying Festivals in Korea

  • Book Accommodations Early: Popular festivals attract large crowds, so hotels and guesthouses fill up quickly.

  • Dress for the Weather: Some festivals, like those in winter, require extra layers, while summer festivals can be very hot and humid.

  • Try Local Festival Foods: Each festival features unique regional specialties—don’t miss out on trying them!

  • Use Public Transport: Most festival locations are easily accessible by train, bus, or subway, making public transport the best way to get around.

Final Thoughts

Korea’s seasonal festivals are more than just events—they are a vibrant celebration of nature, culture, and tradition. Whether you're enjoying cherry blossoms in Jinhae, mud wrestling in Boryeong, or ice fishing in Hwacheon, each festival offers a memorable and immersive experience. Plan your trip around these events, and you’ll discover a whole new side of Korea beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Korean Festival Guide – Quick Information



Best Spring FestivalsJinhae Cherry Blossom, Jeju Canola, Lotus Lantern Festival
Best Summer FestivalsBoryeong Mud Festival, Busan Sea Festival
Best Autumn FestivalsAndong Mask Dance, Seoul Lantern Festival
Best Winter FestivalsHwacheon Ice Fishing, Taebaeksan Snow Festival, Garden of Morning Calm Lights
Essential AppsNaver Map, KakaoMap (for festival locations)

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