Samcheonpo Wild Gizzard Shad Festival (Photo by Sacheon City/courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
Fresh summer gizzard shad will once again take center stage as the 23rd Samcheonpo Wild Gizzard Shad Festival takes place from August 20 to 23 in the Palpo Food Special District in Sacheon.
Known for its tender bones and rich, nutty flavor, Samcheonpo’s wild-caught summer gizzard shad is considered one of the region’s signature seasonal delicacies.
This year’s festival carries the slogan, “Eat, Enjoy, and Stay!”, inviting visitors to experience both the local seafood and the coastal atmosphere of Samcheonpo Harbor.
The four-day event will feature a variety of activities, including a bare-handed gizzard shad catching experience, a live karaoke competition, a gizzard shad quiz show, and free tasting sessions showcasing the seasonal fish.
A highlight of the festival will be the opening ceremony and fireworks display on the evening of August 21, with fireworks lighting up the harbor skyline.
The final two days will feature performances by invited singers, local artists, and the traditional Gakseori Day entertainment program.
The festival aims to combine fresh local seafood, live entertainment, and Samcheonpo’s waterfront scenery to offer visitors a memorable summer experience.