A Spicy Celebration: Immerse Yourself in the Sunchang Fermented Paste Festival
🗓️ Dates: October 11th – 13th, 2024
Please note that the following information is based on the 2023 festival. The 2024 program is currently being updated.
Nestled in the heart of Jeollabuk-do province, Sunchang County is renowned throughout Korea for its mastery of “jang” – traditional fermented pastes. Each autumn, this culinary heritage takes center stage at the vibrant Sunchang Fermented Paste Festival.
This isn’t just a festival; it’s a sensory immersion. With over 60 diverse programs, visitors can dive into the world of fermented pastes through hands-on experiences, captivating cultural performances, fascinating exhibitions, and bustling market stalls. Prepare your taste buds for the fiery and savory delights of Sunchang’s legendary gochujang (red chili paste), a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine.
Experience the grandeur of the “Sunchang Gochujang Royal Procession,” try your hand at making gochujang alongside fellow enthusiasts, and indulge in a communal feast of sizzling tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) infused with the distinct flavors of Sunchang gochujang. The festival caters to all ages, offering health and wellness programs for adults and engaging crafting activities for younger attendees.
[Festival Tip] Sunchang: Where Nature Meets Culinary Tradition
Sunchang is a region where breathtaking natural landscapes blend seamlessly with a rich history of fermented paste production. Considered the birthplace of gochujang, Sunchang’s pristine environment and time-honored techniques result in a depth of flavor that is truly unmatched.
Festival Highlights:
1. Main Events:
- Opening Ceremony Performance: Kick off the festivities with a vibrant display of traditional music and dance.
- Closing Ceremony Performance: Bid farewell to the festival with a final flourish of cultural artistry.
- Fermentation Nation 1997: Journey back in time to explore the history and evolution of fermentation.
- World’s Best Sunchang Tteokbokki Village: Embark on a culinary adventure through a village dedicated to this beloved spicy dish.
- Challenge! Let’s Make Gochujang Together!: Roll up your sleeves and learn the art of gochujang making through this interactive experience.
- Sunchang Gochujang Royal Procession: Witness the pageantry and tradition of this grand procession celebrating Sunchang’s culinary heritage.
2. Cultural Performances:
- Cultural Performances by Local Residents (Saengmundong Village): Experience the authentic spirit of Sunchang through performances by local artists.
- Fermented Paste Music Concert: Enjoy a unique musical experience inspired by the world of fermented pastes.
- Fermented Paste Youth Gathering: Celebrate the next generation of culinary enthusiasts at this lively gathering.
- Jeonju Traditional Performing Arts Parade: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region with this captivating parade.
- Brass Band Performance: Tap your feet to the lively tunes of a traditional brass band.
- Commemorative Performance for Sunchang’s 5 Great Singers: Pay homage to Sunchang’s musical legacy with this special performance.
- Farmer’s Music Competition: Experience the joy and camaraderie of this lively musical competition.
- Sunchang Singers Healing Concert: Let the soothing melodies of local singers wash over you.
- Spicy Food Challenge: Test your limits and your taste buds with this fiery culinary challenge.
3. Visitor Participation:
- National Singing Contest (open to everyone): Share your talent and passion for singing on stage.
- Bead Keychain Making: Create a personalized souvenir with this fun and creative activity.
- Face Painting: Transform yourself with vibrant face painting designs.
- Multicultural Experience Booths: Explore the diverse cultures of the world through interactive exhibits and activities.
4. Food & Shopping:
- 17 Food Stalls: Indulge in a tantalizing array of traditional Korean dishes featuring Sunchang’s renowned gochujang.
- Food Trucks: Grab a quick and delicious bite from a variety of food trucks offering both local and international flavors.
- 31 Experience & Sales Booths: Discover unique crafts, local products, and fermented paste souvenirs.
Festival Information:
📍 Location: 55, Jangnyu-ro, Sunchang-eup, Sunchang-gun, Jeollabuk-do
💰 Admission: Free (performances, events, some experience booths) & Paid (food stalls, food trucks, some experience & sales booths)
(Discounts available for visitors wearing red)
📞 Contact: +82-63-650-1624
⭐️ Instagram: Follow the Festival on Instagram
🖥️ Website: Visit the Official Festival Website
