Dive into Winter Fun at the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival!

🗓️ November 23, 2024 – March 3, 2025

Looking for a unique winter adventure? Escape to the pristine waters of Sumi Village in Yangpyeong, a region renowned for its crystal-clear streams and celebrated as a rural tourism haven (even winning the Presidential Award at the 2013 Korean Rural Village Awards!). This year, experience the magic of winter at the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival, a truly immersive celebration designed to become a beloved Korean tradition.

What sets this festival apart? Imagine the thrill of ice fishing for smelt in a cozy dome, protecting you from the winter chill. This innovative approach combines the classic winter pastime with modern comfort, ensuring a fun experience for everyone, regardless of the weather.

Exciting Activities for Everyone:

Main Attractions:

• Ice Fishing for Smelt: Experience the classic winter activity in a whole new way!
• Dome Smelt Scooping: Enjoy smelt fishing in a comfortable, weather-protected dome. A perfect option for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience.
• Trout Catching with Bare Hands: Dare to plunge your hands into the icy water and test your skills at catching trout!
• White Kids’ Snow Sledding: Let the little ones loose on the snowy slopes for some exhilarating sledding fun.

Sumi Village Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture with these unique activities offered by Sumi Village residents:

• Handmade Steamed Bun Making: Learn the art of crafting delicious steamed buns from scratch.
• Handmade Pizza Making: Create your own personalized pizza with fresh, local ingredients.
• Four-Wheeler Experience (ATV): Explore the scenic countryside on an exciting ATV adventure.
• Can Train Experience (ATV): Enjoy a leisurely ride through the village on a charming can train.
• Succulent Pot Making: Create a beautiful and lasting souvenir with a hands-on succulent potting experience.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: 55-2 Gopdani-gil, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

💰 Fees:

• Dome Smelt Package: 12,000 won per person
• Dome Smelt Fishing Package: 21,000 won per person

📞 Contact: 031-775-5205

🖥️ Website: https://winterfestival.kr

What is ice smelt?

Ice smelt refers to a particular type of small fish, commonly known as smelt, which are often found in cold waters. These fish, thriving in the icy environments of regions like Korea, are a popular catch during the winter months when the lakes and rivers freeze over. Ice smelt is well-known not only for their role in winter fishing festivals but also for their delicate, mild flavor, making them a culinary favorite. During events like the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival, participants can try their hand at ice fishing, an exciting winter tradition where holes are drilled into the thick ice to reach the fish swimming below. Catching ice smelt requires both skill and patience, but the reward is worth the effort, often leading to delicious meals cooked right at the festival site. As these tiny fish are abundant and quick to catch, they offer a uniquely enjoyable and family-friendly winter activity.