Introduction
Seoul transforms dramatically with each season, offering unique festivals that blend ancient traditions with modern energy. As a foreign visitor, these events provide unforgettable insights into Korean culture, food, and community spirit. Here’s your curated guide to experiencing Seoul’s seasonal magic!
🌸 Spring (March–May): Blossoms & Lanterns ###
1. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
When: Early April
Where: Yeouido Park (Han River)
Experience: Walk beneath a pink canopy of 1,800 cherry trees along Yunjung-ro Road. Enjoy street performances, food stalls selling tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and night illuminations. Rent a bike to explore riverside paths.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds—sunrise offers dreamy photo ops!
2. Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe)
When: Late April–Early May (aligned with Buddha’s Birthday)
Where: Jongno District → Jogyesa Temple
Experience: Join the massive lantern parade (think dragons, pagodas, and LED floats!) and try lantern-making workshops. Taste temple food like sanchae bibimbap (mountain vegetable rice).
Culture Note: Write a wish to hang on lanterns—it’s believed to bring luck!
☀️ Summer (June–August): Water, Mud & Night Markets ###
1. Seoul Water Bomb Festival
When: July
Where: Olympic Park
Experience: Dance to K-pop under water cannons and foam parties! International DJs amp up the energy. Wear quick-dry clothes and waterproof phone cases.
Foreigner Perk: English-speaking staff and easy ticket booking via Trazy or Klook.
2. Bamdokkaebi Night Market
When: Weekends, March–October (peak in summer)
Where: Hangang Park (Yeouido) & Banpo Bridge
Experience: Sizzle Korean BBQ at food trucks, shop handmade crafts, and enjoy live bands with Han River views. Try makgeolli (rice wine) slushies—a summer staple!
Must-Eat: Gyeran-ppang (egg bread) and twigim (Korean tempura).
🍁 Autumn (September–November): Fireworks, Flavors & Lights ###
1. Seoul International Fireworks Festival
When: October
Where: Hangang Park (Yeouido Riverside)
Experience: Watch synchronized pyrotechnic shows by global teams. Pack a picnic mat and chimaek (fried chicken + beer) from nearby vendors.
Pro Tip: Reserve spots by 3 PM—over 1 million attendees expected!
2. Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival
When: November
Where: Seoul Plaza (City Hall)
Experience: Learn to make kimchi from ajummas (Korean aunties)! Gloves and aprons provided. Your batch is donated to low-income families—an act called kimjang.
Bonus: Sample exotic kimchi varieties (pear, squid, or pumpkin!).
3. Seoul Lantern Festival
When: Early November–Mid-December
Where: Cheonggyecheon Stream
Experience: Stroll beside a 1.2km stream glowing with LED installations—historical figures, zodiac animals, and fantasy scenes.
Photo Spot: The “floating” lotus lantern section near Gwangtonggyo Bridge.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Lights, Ice & Festive Cheer ###
1. Seoul Christmas Festival
When: December
Where: Cheonggye Plaza to Gwanghwamun Square
Experience: Ice skating, giant light sculptures, and European-style Christmas markets. Sip sujeonggwa (cinnamon punch) while carolers perform.
Highlight: The 15-meter LED Christmas tree synchronized to music.
2. Seoul Plaza Ice Rink
When: December–February
Where: Seoul Plaza (City Hall)
Experience: Skate with City Hall’s neo-Gothic facade as your backdrop. Rentals cost ₩1,000 (skates included). Warm up with hotteok (sugar-filled pancakes) nearby!
3. Seoullo 7017 Light Festival
When: December–January
Where: Seoullo Skygarden (ex-highway turned pedestrian walkway)
Experience: Thousands of fairy lights turn this urban oasis into a “starry path.” Ideal for evening walks after Myeongdong shopping.
✨ Why These Festivals? ###
- Accessibility: Most are free/subway-accessible (use T-money cards!).
- English Support: Major events offer apps/websites in English.
- Social Opportunities: Locals love sharing festivals—don’t hesitate to chat!
Final Tip: Check dates via Visit Seoul (english.visitseoul.net) before booking flights. Seasons paint Seoul differently—each festival unlocks a new side of Korea’s soul! 🎉