Food & Drink
Seoul’s alleys come alive with autumn festivals celebrating local culture and creativity
haps Magazine Korea
October 15, 2025
(Photo courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
Seoul’s neighborhoods are transforming into vibrant cultural stages this fall as the city hosts a series of local brand festivals across eight unique commercial districts from October through November.
These “made-in-Seoul” events aim to revitalize local economies through creative, community-driven celebrations that bring together citizens, artists, and merchants.
Following the success of September’s Sangbong Food Alley Festival and Seongbuk-dong-gil YOGO Festa, which drew over 20,000 visitors, Seoul is continuing the momentum with a relay of autumn festivals in areas such as Yongmaru-gil, SAIL 9-ro, Hoegirang-gil, and Sharosu-gil.
Community-Centered Festivals Across the City
Each festival is designed to highlight the character and charm of its neighborhood through interactive programs like flea markets, art performances, workshops, and busking. These events are not just for entertainment but also to foster community pride and showcase Seoul’s growing network of distinctive local brands.
Highlights of the 2025 Autumn Local Brand Festival Series
October 17–18 | SAIL 9-ro, Gangbuk District
The “2025 SAIL 9-ro Cloud Festival with Nanna” will feature yoga, meditation, youth performances, and a vibrant flea market along the scenic Bukhansan Dulle-gil and café street. The event runs jointly with the Gangbuk Youth Center’s “Nanna Festival”, creating a multi-generational celebration of culture and wellness.
October 24–November 9 | Yongmaru-gil, Yongsan District
The “Yongmaru Forest Road Festival” will unfold every weekend for nine days along the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail. With autumn flower streets, yoga sessions, face painting, caricature booths, and craft markets, it’s an ideal family-friendly outing for fall in Seoul.
October 30–31 | Hoegirang-gil, Dongdaemun District
The “Hoegirang-gil Youth Night Playground” will bring youthful energy to this university district with open-air food stalls, busking performances, and interactive booths, reflecting the district’s vibrant student culture.
November 1 | Sharosu-gil, Gwanak District
The “Ground Sharo-soo Youth Culture Playground” will showcase the creativity of young entrepreneurs, blending food, EDM performances, and hands-on activities into a lively cultural street party.
November 2 | Chemi Street, Gangnam Station (Seocho District)
The “2nd Chemi Street Gangnam Festival” will feature global themes of K-Food, K-Style, and K-Beauty, offering culinary experiences, styling battles, and beauty demos for both locals and international visitors.
November 29 | Gongneung Forest Road, Nowon District
Rounding out the season, the “Cookie Village Festa Flea Market” will invite citizens into a cozy winter atmosphere with a “Gingerbread House” photo zone, light displays, and cookie-making experiences, perfect for families and couples alike.
Strengthening Seoul’s Local Identity
Seoul’s Local Brand Project, launched in 2022, currently supports eight commercial zones, each representing the unique lifestyle and culture of its neighborhood. The initiative aims to nurture “stay-worthy local districts” that blend commerce, creativity, and community life.
City officials emphasized that strict safety measures and site inspections will be in place to ensure enjoyable and secure festivals for all.