Travel
Celebrate the seasons in Seoul: Nine local districts host unique festivals until year-end
haps magazine korea
October 2, 2024
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Seoul’s “Local Brand Districts” are set to host a series of exciting festivals from October through the end of the year, offering a unique experience in each neighborhood.
Residents and visitors can immerse themselves in events tailored to each district’s character, featuring activities like K-Beauty booths, street markets, live performances, and even an early Christmas celebration.
1. Gangnam Chemistreet Festival (Gangnam Station, Exit 9)
Date: October 2-3 The Gangnam Chemistreet near Gangnam Station will host a festival celebrating Korean culture through K-Beauty, K-Pop, and K-Food. Highlights include personal color consultations, idol makeup workshops, and a K-Beauty pop-up store. Nearby, the Gangnam Meat Alley will feature a German Oktoberfest-themed beer festival with various grilled meat dishes, a silent DJ party, and live K-Pop performances.
2. Sharosu-gil LocalinStay (Seoul National University Station, Exit 2)
Date: October 4-5 Sharosu-gil’s festival includes DIY diffuser-making classes and a floristry workshop with local artists at the “Roadin Playground.” The “Localin Oasis” hosts a food competition, while the “Dining in Terrace” offers an open-air dining experience. The event concludes with a music concert in collaboration with the Gang Gamchan Festival, celebrating Sharosu-gil’s youthful and lively atmosphere.
3. Yangjae Art Salon (Yangjaecheon-gil, Seocho District)
Date: October 5-27 Returning as one of Seoul’s most beloved local festivals, Yangjae Art Salon features a flea market offering handcrafted goods and local food. Evening Candlelight Concerts and a riverfront film screening will add a touch of autumn romance, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the crisp autumn air and creative energy.
4. Jangchungdan-gil “Bumong Camping” (Dongguk University Station, Exit 2)
Date: October 25 Nestled near Namsan Mountain, this festival transforms Jangchungdan-gil into a camping haven with road-side tents, “Bumong” (fire-themed) camping activities, and an outdoor cinema. Enjoy a relaxed evening in the city’s hidden oasis while taking in the beauty of autumn under the stars.
5. Seonyuroun Festival (Seonyudo Station, Exit 2)
Date: October 26-27 The Seonyuroun neighborhood near Seonyudo Park will host the “October Seonyuroun” festival. Visitors can explore the local food zone and flea market, all while soaking in the serene and laid-back autumn atmosphere unique to this waterfront district.
6. Oryu Budeul “Willow Outing” (Oryu-dong, Guro District)
Date: October 12 Oryu Budeul offers a special local tour program, “Willow Outing,” connecting local history and culture. Led by guides, participants can visit neighborhood landmarks like Purunsup Park and the Gudeuin Hall at Sungkonghoe University, alongside a market tour of the Oryu Budeul district.
7. Hapjeong Skyroad Festa (Hapjeong Station, Exit 7)
Date: October 5 Held along the Skyroad near Hapjeong Station, this festival brings together local cafes and creative businesses to offer non-alcoholic cocktails, specialty coffees, and street performances. The event theme is “Art that makes dreams come true,” featuring busking performances and an interactive “Wish Wall” where visitors can write and share their wishes.
8. Yongmaru-gil “Merry Christmas” Festival (Yongsan District)
Date: November 8 – Mid-December As the first to bring Christmas cheer to Seoul, Yongmaru-gil will transform into a Christmas-themed street with photo zones, festive markets, and live music every weekend from November 8. The festival is designed to usher in the holiday spirit early with themed decorations and performances.
9. Gyeongchun Line Winter Party (Gyeongchun Line Forest, Gongneung Station, Exit 2)
Date: December 7 The Gyeongchun Line Winter Party will illuminate the Gyeongchun Line Forest Trail with a light festival, accompanied by a holiday market and live performances. The trail connects several attractions, including the Gongneung Goblin Market and the Welcome Center, making it an ideal spot for a festive winter stroll.