South Korea is hosting a vibrant array of seasonal festivals this fall, offering visitors everything from beer tastings and seafood delicacies to spectacular light displays and botanical experiences. These events, spanning from major cities to rural villages, showcase the country's rich cultural heritage while providing modern entertainment options for both locals and tourists.
The Yeongdo Beer Festival is currently in full swing at the Busan International Cruise Terminal, operating daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Sunday. This large-scale outdoor event features unlimited beer offerings, live DJ performances, and a diverse selection of food booths for attendees to enjoy. The festival has been designed as an interactive cultural experience, incorporating hands-on activity booths, designated photo zones, and entertainment suitable for all age groups. General admission tickets are priced at 20,000 won, while fast-track entry options are available for 40,000 won.
In South Chungcheong Province, the Hongseong Namdang Port Shrimp Festival continues through October 20, celebrating what is widely regarded as Korea's premier destination for autumn shrimp. Namdang Port attracts food enthusiasts from across the country who come to sample daeha, or giant shrimp, which are considered a seasonal delicacy. Festival participants can engage in hands-on experiences including bare-handed shrimp catching competitions and shrimp shelling contests, alongside live musical performances. The event atmosphere is further enhanced by cultural shows, singing contests, and a bustling night market that operates throughout the festival period. Visitors can also enjoy stunning sunset views over the water and specially choreographed fountain shows, making this a particularly attractive destination for fall travelers.
North Gyeongsang Province's Cheongdo Provence Light Festival runs through November 30 in Cheongdo County, transforming a French-inspired village into a nighttime wonderland. The venue features more than 100 designated photo zones and charming houses that evoke the atmosphere of southeastern France. After dark, the entire area becomes a dazzling light display that pays homage to the region that inspired renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Matisse. The festival's design captures the romantic essence of French countryside villages while incorporating modern lighting technology to create an immersive visual experience.
Sejong National Arboretum is welcoming visitors to its annual nighttime opening, which continues through October 11, providing guests with an opportunity to experience beautifully illuminated gardens in a romantic evening setting. This year's event showcases enhanced lighting displays throughout key areas including the Four Seasons Greenhouse, Festival Plaza, and the Korean Traditional Garden located in Sejong. Weekend cultural programming adds another dimension to the experience, with orchestra performances, traditional Korean music festivals, open-air cinema screenings, and immersive story-based shows scheduled every Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Admission pricing is set at 2,500 won for adults, 2,000 won for teenagers, and 1,500 won for children.
The Yangpyeong Catfish Whiskers Festival, taking place in the village of Sumimaru in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, runs through September 7. This rural celebration is held in an area known for its exceptionally clean water and presidential award-winning countryside charm. The festival offers numerous hands-on experiences including catfish fishing activities, fruit syrup-making workshops, and all-terrain vehicle rides for adventure seekers. Additional attractions include bubble play zones designed for families, organized picnic areas, and traditional Korean meals featuring spicy fish stew prepared with locally caught catfish. Admission fees range from 19,000 won to 49,000 won, with pricing determined by the specific activity packages selected by visitors.
