Autumn Festivals in Korea: Celebrating Heritage & Nature

As the temperature cools and leaves turn fiery red and gold across Korea, autumn becomes the season of festivals. It’s a magical time when tradition, nature, and community come together. Here are a few of my favorite autumn festivals in Korea you shouldn’t miss: One of the most iconic is the Andong Mask Dance Festival (안동국제탈춤페스티벌). Held usually from late September to early October in Andong, this festival features traditional mask dances (talchum) by Korean and international troupes, live performances, workshops, and folk culture exhibitions. Another must-see is the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Lantern Festival. In October, thousands of lanterns float down the Namgang River, creating a stunning nighttime spectacle. Visitors can write wishes on lanterns, enjoy cultural performances, and experience the illumination along the water’s edge. I also love the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival (수원화성문화제). Held around the UNESCO-heritage Suwon Fortress from late September into early October, this festival features a citizens’ parade, guard re-enactments, traditional performances, and a media art show projected onto the fortress walls. For food lovers, there’s the Cheongsong Apple Festival (청송사과축제), typically late October to early November. Cheongsong apples are famous in Korea, and the festival includes apple tastings, apple-themed contests, and local cultural events. If you’re in Changwon or nearby, don’t miss the Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival (마산 가고파 국화축제). From late October into November, this festival celebrates chrysanthemums with flower displays, contests, and poetry recitals. It draws over a million visitors annually. One more: the Seorak Cultural Festival (설악문화제) in Sokcho (Gangwon Province). Held at the end of October, it’s a local festival linking mountain and sea culture—with climbing contests, squid dishes, folk events, and the natural beauty of Seoraksan as backdrop.