Fall is prime festival season in South Korea, especially in Seoul! My favorites are some of the traditional celebrations like the Andong Mask Festival and this one! Here’s everything you need to know for your trip to the Seoul Lantern Festival.
The Seoul Lantern Festival
The festival is located along the Cheonggyecheon Stream between the Jongno and Myeongdong districts in Seoul. Most of the lanterns are displayed in the water, but keep an eye out for others along the way.
Some of the lanterns were very traditional, some were from movies, some were of landmarks (in Seoul and many other places in the world – like Mount Rushmore!), and some were just for fun.
There were tables and vendors set up under a bridge where you could put together your own lantern and set it free in the stream. You have to make a wish when you do so, of course!
Some of my favorite lanterns were the Disney ones and there were tons of them! Aladdin, Pinocchio, and they even had the Wizard of Oz!
The Seoul Lantern Festival is great for families with or without kids, date night, or just a night out with friends!
How to Get There
If you’re taking the subway just get off at Euljiro Station and walk towards the stream. Download the Naver app and it will tell you exactly how to get there!
Tips for Visiting the Seoul Lantern Festival
- Start at the end. I would recommend starting all the way at the end and working your way to the main part of the festival. This way, the lanterns and sights get better as you go!
- Dress warmly. South Korea gets very cold in the winters (and even in the fall). It snowed the day after we visited the festival this year!
- Try the street foods. Festivals tend to have more of a variety to choose from than regular street food stalls. Try them all!
What is your favorite festival in Seoul? Share in a comment below!
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Don’t forget to check out these other South Korea posts:
- Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea
- Myeongdong District in Seoul Travel Guide
- A Trip to Cheongpung Land in Jecheon
- The Andong Mask Dance Festival
- Snacks to Try in South Korea
- Things to Do in Buyeo, South Korea
