This spring, Seoul is transforming its iconic urban parks into vibrant cultural spaces with the launch of the Seoul Garden Festa.

Held on weekends and holidays from April through the first week of May, the event will tour five major parks: Seoul Forest, Namsan Park, Dream Forest, Seonyudo Park, and the Seoul Botanic Park.

The festival invites citizens to enjoy a blend of outdoor shopping, cultural experiences, live performances, and hands-on gardening activities in the heart of the city.

Inspired by the theme of “gardens,” the pop-up event includes a variety of stalls offering handmade crafts, gardening supplies, pet accessories, food trucks, and more—all designed to reflect the natural beauty of spring.

The Seoul Garden Festa also marks the first official application of Seoul’s newly relaxed regulation allowing limited commercial activities in urban parks during cultural or artistic events. This change is part of the city’s fifth wave of regulatory reforms aimed at increasing park use and supporting small businesses.

Kicking off the event is Seoul Forest on April 5–6, themed “Healthy Gardens.” Visitors can explore pop-up shops selling potted plants, gardening kits, and pet items, as well as indulge in street food treats like churros and hot dogs. The park will also feature photo zones, a “book garden” rest area, and interactive programs such as garden rock painting and personalized postcard-making.

The following weekend (April 12–13), Namsan Park will host the next round under the theme “Healthy Body and Mind.” In addition to ten themed pop-up shops, visitors can participate in outdoor yoga, tarot readings, and enjoy music performances in a scenic park that overlooks downtown Seoul.

On April 19–20, the family-friendly Dream Forest in northern Seoul will take center stage. With over 20 stalls selling wooden toys and artisan crafts, the park will offer play areas for kids, a mobile library, and live garden concerts designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Seonyudo Park, known for its sustainable landscaping, will host the festival on April 26–27 under the theme “Healthy Earth.” Visitors interested in upcycling and eco-friendly goods can browse stalls featuring recycled pet accessories, handmade crafts, moss art, and plant-themed decorations—all while enjoying performances and peaceful greenery.

Finally, the Seoul Botanic Park will wrap up the festival on May 4–5 with a celebration for children titled “Books and Blooms.” From illustrated books and stationery to toys and sweet treats like cookies and cotton candy, young visitors will be treated to a rich sensory experience. The event also includes a children’s garden school and a special storybook exhibition at the North Lounge.

Throughout the festival, seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms, apricots, and magnolias will be in full bloom, with curated green spaces and photo spots enhancing the beauty of each venue.

USAG Yongsan