Seoul is a city that thrives on its rich cultural heritage and vibrant modern life, and its festivals are the perfect reflection of this dynamic spirit. From celebrating ancient traditions to showcasing cutting-edge art and entertainment, Seoul’s festivals offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a visit during spring, summer, fall, or winter, you’ll likely encounter one of these remarkable events. Here’s a guide to the top 10 festivals in Seoul, complete with estimated dates so you can plan your trip accordingly.
1. Seoul Lantern Festival
Estimated Month: November
Why Attend
One of Seoul’s most iconic and visually stunning festivals, the Seoul Lantern Festival lights up the Cheonggyecheon Stream with thousands of colorful, illuminated lanterns. Each year, the festival centers around a different theme, ranging from Korean history and folklore to modern art. This enchanting event offers a magical atmosphere as lanterns float and glow along the water.
What to Expect
Visitors can stroll along the stream and admire lanterns in various shapes, from traditional Korean patterns and mythical creatures to famous landmarks and characters. In addition to the lantern displays, the festival often includes interactive zones where visitors can make their own lanterns or participate in light shows. The evening is the perfect time to visit when the lanterns are at their brightest.
Pro Tip
Dress warmly as November evenings can be chilly in Seoul. The lantern festival is free to attend, but weekends can get crowded, so try to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
2. Seoul International Fireworks Festival
Estimated Month: October
Why Attend
The Seoul International Fireworks Festival is one of the largest and most breathtaking fireworks displays in Asia. Held along the banks of the Han River at Yeouido Hangang Park, this festival features pyrotechnics shows from international teams who light up the night sky with dazzling displays.
What to Expect
The festival typically draws large crowds, and the event starts in the late afternoon with cultural performances, food stalls, and entertainment. As evening falls, fireworks teams from countries like Japan, the United States, and South Korea compete to put on the most spectacular display. The synchronized music adds another layer of excitement, creating a full sensory experience.
Pro Tip
Arrive early to claim a good viewing spot along the Han River. Many people bring picnic blankets, snacks, and drinks to enjoy while waiting for the fireworks to start. Public transportation is the best way to get there, as roads near the park can be closed due to the event.
3. Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival
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Estimated Month: November
Why Attend
Korean cuisine is world-famous, and kimchi is at its heart. The Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival celebrates this staple food and offers visitors the chance to learn about the traditional process of kimchi-making, known as kimjang. It’s a cultural experience that combines hands-on learning with the spirit of community and sharing.
What to Expect
The festival is held at Seoul Plaza, and visitors can participate in kimchi-making workshops where they learn the centuries-old methods of preparing and fermenting cabbage, radish, and other vegetables. The festival is designed to promote communal harmony, and much of the kimchi made is donated to local charities. Alongside the workshops, there are also food stalls, performances, and exhibitions on kimchi’s history.
Pro Tip
Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get involved in the kimchi-making process. Even if you don’t speak Korean, volunteers and organizers will guide you through the steps. Be sure to take home some freshly made kimchi!
4. Seoul Festa
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Estimated Month: May
Why Attend
The Hi Seoul Festival is one of the city’s most comprehensive festivals, celebrating art, culture, and performance. Held over several days in early May, the festival takes place across various venues, including Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square, and other public spaces. The festival showcases both traditional and contemporary art, making it a must-attend event for culture enthusiasts.
What to Expect
Expect to see street performances, art installations, parades, and musical performances. There are interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops that allow festivalgoers to immerse themselves in the experience. From theater and dance to acrobatics and puppetry, Hi Seoul is a colorful and diverse event that appeals to all ages.
Pro Tip
This festival takes place in multiple locations across the city, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Public transportation will help you hop between venues easily. The outdoor performances are especially popular, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
5. Lotus Lantern Festival
Estimated Month: April/May (Buddha’s Birthday)
Why Attend
The Lotus Lantern Festival is one of the most beautiful and spiritually significant festivals in Seoul, celebrating Buddha’s birthday. The highlight of the festival is the parade of thousands of glowing lotus lanterns, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as they light up the streets of Jongno. It’s a celebration of peace, hope, and enlightenment, making it a meaningful event for visitors of all backgrounds.
What to Expect
The festival typically includes a variety of cultural performances, traditional Korean music, and dances. However, the main event is the lantern parade, where thousands of participants carry handmade lanterns in various shapes and colors through the streets. Temples across the city, including Jogyesa Temple and Bongeunsa Temple, are beautifully adorned with lanterns, and many offer lantern-making workshops for visitors.
Pro Tip
Arrive early to find a good spot along the parade route, particularly near Jogyesa Temple. Many of the lanterns are handcrafted, and visitors are often invited to participate in the making of their own lantern to carry during the procession.
6. Seoul Fringe Festival
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Estimated Month: August
Why Attend
The Seoul Fringe Festival is a celebration of independent and experimental art, giving a platform to emerging artists and performers in Seoul. The festival has a DIY spirit and showcases a wide range of art forms, including music, dance, theater, visual art, and film. If you love creativity and discovering new talents, this festival is a great way to experience the Seoul art scene.
What to Expect
Taking place in the vibrant Hongdae district, the Seoul Fringe Festival features both indoor and outdoor performances across multiple venues, including theaters, cafes, galleries, and parks. The festival has a casual, laid-back atmosphere, and visitors can hop from venue to venue, enjoying different acts throughout the day and night. It’s a great way to experience the energy and artistic diversity of Seoul’s indie scene.
Pro Tip
Many performances and exhibitions are free, while others may require a ticket purchase. The festival schedule can be packed, so plan ahead to catch the acts you’re most interested in.
7. Seoul Jazz Festival
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Estimated Month: May
Why Attend
If you’re a fan of music, the Seoul Jazz Festival is a must. Held every May, this festival attracts top international and Korean jazz artists for performances in scenic venues such as Olympic Park. It’s a relaxed and upscale event where music lovers can enjoy world-class performances while lounging in the park’s grassy areas.
What to Expect
The festival features multiple stages, each offering different styles of jazz, from smooth and soulful to more avant-garde performances. In addition to the music, there are gourmet food stalls, wine, and craft beer stands, making it a perfect event for a picnic-style day out. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or simply enjoy live music, this festival offers a sophisticated yet laid-back experience.
Pro Tip
Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks, as seating is limited. The festival often sells out, so purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
8. Seoul Street Art Festival
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Estimated Month: October
Why Attend
The Seoul Street Art Festival is an eclectic celebration of street performance, with artists from around the world showcasing their talents in public spaces across the city. From acrobats and dancers to comedians and mimes, this festival offers a diverse range of performances that will surprise and delight.
What to Expect
The festival takes place in various locations around Seoul, with performances ranging from small, intimate acts to large-scale shows. The streets of downtown Seoul become a stage for artists, creating an immersive and interactive experience for festivalgoers. Expect to see everything from contemporary dance and circus performances to avant-garde theater.
Pro Tip
The performances are often spontaneous and unscheduled, so keep an eye out as you explore the festival areas. Many performances are interactive, so don’t be shy about joining in the fun.
9. Seoul Rose Festival
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Estimated Month: May
Why Attend
The Seoul Rose Festival is an annual celebration of one of the most beloved flowers, held at Jungnang Rose Park. Every May, this park transforms into a romantic, flower-filled wonderland, with millions of roses in full bloom. It’s a fantastic event for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty.
What to Expect
Stroll through thousands of rose-covered arches, explore themed gardens, and enjoy various cultural performances and exhibitions. The park becomes a sea of colors, with roses in every shade imaginable. There’s also a market for flower-themed souvenirs, crafts, and food. The atmosphere is relaxed and filled with floral fragrance, making it a perfect spot for picnics or romantic walks.
Pro Tip
Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and enjoy the flowers in peace. Bring your camera—there are plenty of Instagram-worthy spots to capture.
10. Seoul Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Festival
Estimated Month: October
Why Attend
For those interested in traditional Korean medicine and wellness, the Seoul Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Festival is a fascinating exploration of herbal remedies and medicinal practices that have been passed down for centuries. The festival takes place at the Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Market, one of the largest and oldest herbal medicine markets in Korea.
What to Expect
The festival offers educational workshops, demonstrations of traditional Korean medical practices, and tours of the herb market. Visitors can sample herbal teas, explore the health benefits of different plants, and even receive consultations from traditional Korean medicine practitioners. It’s an opportunity to delve into an important aspect of Korean culture and learn about natural healing.
Pro Tip
Be sure to try some of the herbal snacks and teas available at the festival—they’re not only tasty but also believed to have various health benefits. Many vendors speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and learn more about the remedies on offer.
Final Thoughts
Seoul’s festivals are a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and rich traditions. No matter the time of year, you’ll find something to celebrate in this dynamic metropolis. Whether you’re interested in art, music, food, or history, Seoul’s festivals offer an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Korean culture and create lasting memories.
