Korea Now

Six Festivals in South Korea to Attend this Fall October 24, 2018

Experience Korea's vibrant festival scene this autumn

Fall at Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Korea. With the red and golden hues of the leaves and the cool breeze that brushes you as you walk along the streets in your warm coats. The fall season is arguably the best time for festivals because it’s neither too hot nor too cold, which may be why most of the largest international and local festivals happen during this period not only in Seoul but throughout the major cultural and historic cities of Korea.

Before the weather gets any colder, why not check out these six festivals before we enter into the chilly season of winter? There’s something for everyone - whether you’re a foodie, a music lover or simply enjoy beautiful sights.

1. Jeonju Bibimbab Festival
Credit: Jeonju Bibimbap Festival website

If you haven't already heard, Jeonju is famous for its bibimbap - a traditional Korean cuisine served in a bowl of white rice with vegetables, fried egg and sliced meat - so it is not surprising that the city has a whole festival named after its representative dish. The 2018 Jeonju Bibimbap Festival will be held during October 25 - 28 at the Hyanggo Confucius School in Jeonju Hanok Village. You can sign up for cooking classes, enjoy delicious food at the marketplace and enjoy cultural performances (including cooking concerts by chefs from other countries) during the four-day festival. If you need a short getaway out of Seoul after a stressful day, why not head down to Jeonju?

For more information about the festival: http://www.bibimbapfest.com/

2. Seoul International Food Film Festival

Credit: SIFFF website

The 4th Seoul International Food Film Festival (SIFFF) will be held during October 25 to November 4 at ARTNINE and Namsangol Hanok Village. The 11-day festival will present 52 feature and short films centered around the theme of food - celebrating the diversity of food and lifestyles from different cultures. This film festival also has an additional aim of raising public awareness on sustainable and healthy eating. If you’re someone who lives to eat and enjoys watching movies, you may want to check out this unique film festival.

For more information about the festival: http://www.sifff.kr

3. Busan Fireworks Festival

Credit: Busan Culture & Tourism Festival Organizing Committee website

The 14th Busan Fireworks Festival will take place on October 27 this year. The festival, held annually in October along Gwangalli Beach, presents a myriad of unique and colorful fireworks along with a diverse offering of cultural events and high-tech laser light shows. The festival is so popular that over a million visitors take part annually. So if you're intending to head over for this festival, you might want to head over a little earlier to get a good spot to enjoy the beautiful sights and maybe take beautiful photos for that Instagram post.

For more information about the festival: http://www.bfo.or.kr

4. Seoul Fashion Festival Credit: Seoul Fashion Festival website

October happens to be the month of Halloween and this year's Seoul Fashion Festival has included a Halloween-themed fashion show and live concert happening on October 27 at Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul. Participants can enjoy a circus performance, shop at designer pop-up stores and party with music by EDM artists and rappers. If you don't have plans yet this Halloween weekend and looking for a place to party, you might want to consider this festival.

For more information about the festival: http://seoulfashionfestival.co.kr/

5. Seoul International Music Festival

Credit: SIMF website

If EDM is not your kind of music, how about unwinding to some classical music? The Seoul International Music Festival, held during November 1-11 this year, brings classical music from all around the world to Seoul. This year marks the festival's 10th anniversary and you will be treated to unique collaborations, world premieres and new interpretations on classic works.

For more information about the festival: http://www.simf.kr/en

6. Seoul Lantern Festival

Credit: Seoul Lantern Festival website

Another festival which is celebrating its 10th anniversary is the Seoul Lantern Festival which is held in November every year in central Seoul. This year, the festival will be held during November 2-18. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful lanterns which will be lit up daily from 5pm to 11pm along Cheonggyecheon Plaza all the way to Supyogyo Bridge! Enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the beautiful light display along Cheonggyecheon stream.

For more information about the festival: http://www.seoullantern.com/html/

Enjoy the festivals and make sure to keep warm this season!

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