Autumn in South Korea is the time of the year when vivid colors and cold breezes give life to the streets. Because of its particular characteristic that diverges from any other season, autumn acts as an ideal setting for some of Korea's most famous festivals. From traditional harvest celebrations like Chuseok to cultural events such as the Andong Mask Dance Festival, the country offers a variety of unique experiences. Yet, there is still far more to discover than what is already well-known to the people. The world is big and there's a lot to explore. Even in a relatively smaller country like South Korea, there are so many experiences and sights to behold. Whether you are attracted to the beauty of falling leaves or a lively celebration, Korea's hidden autumn festivals provide unforgettable moments that blend autumn’s unique characteristics with engaging activities. With the time of golden leaves ticking to its end, it’s the last chance to explore and experience the best of Korea’s fall season.
Pocheon Herb Island Pink Muhly Festival
If you are a nature lover or a person who enjoys taking photos, Pocheon Herb Island Pink Muhly Festival is a must-visit place. Held annually at Herb Island, this festival usually starts at the beginning of September and attracts tourists till the mid November when the temperature suddenly drops. Its breathtaking fields of pink muhly grass that create a dreamy landscape. This splendid scenery is the main point of this festival. Activities are not only limited to taking stunning photos but also to explore herb-themed shops, enjoy sledding on pink sand, and getting your breath whiffed away by the beautiful LED garden at night. For all the couples seeking a romantic getaway, this is the perfect place to explore Korea’s natural beauty.
Hwadam Forest Autumn Leaves Festival
Among the most interesting fall foliage festivals in Korea, Hwadam Forest Autumn Leaves Festival is most admired for its stunning beauty and vibrant color. Hwadam Forest is a place of a great landscape, decorated in scarlet, orange, and yellow autumn colors. Running every year from mid-October to the second~third weeks of November, the festival offers beautiful harmony of over 400 types of trees. Visitors can ride a monorail along winding paths, breathing in the fresh air of Korea’s autumn.
Hwadam Forest Festival also offers interactive activities, like making miniature gardens in terrariums and going around an insect farm where experts take the lead. Of course, there are also seasonal treats that will delight your taste buds. Whether you are seeking calming retreats, an enjoyable family vacation, or photographic inspiration, the Hwadam Forest Autumn Leaves Festival gives long-lasting experience in a beautiful Korean autumn landscape.
Luminarie Festival
The festivals of Luminarie take place around Seokchon Lake in Songpa-gu, with the 2024 event entitled "Dream, Universe, and Love." As Korea’s signature festival for fall and winter, this festival expresses a fantastic display of light sculptures, landscape lighting, and photo zones throughout the area. Starting from the grand entrance at East Lake, shiny and ornate gates, tunnels, and bridges welcome tourists with a dreamy and magical atmosphere. Thus, Luminarie Festival is also referred to as an "art of light" that creates a wonderland, illuminating Seokchon Lake into a dreamlike fantasy.
Opening from October 25th to February 28th, the festival also has a series of inspiring events such as artistic performances, hands-on booths, and a flea market. This year especially, the festival also offers musical busking, magic shows, and dance performances on weekends until November 24th. Keep these dates in mind and make sure to visit the Luminarie festival before it’s too late!
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