Experience the Thrill of Winter at the 2025 Andong Amsan Ice Festival! ❄️

🗓️ January 18th – 26th, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure at the Andong Amsan Tourist Park, home to the largest winter festival in the Yeongnam region! From January 18th to 26th, 2025, experience the magic of winter with breathtaking natural scenery and pristine ice conditions, perfect for a variety of exciting activities.

Kick off the festivities with the grand opening event on Saturday, January 18th, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Then, dive into a world of winter fun! Whizz down thrilling sledding slopes, try your luck at ice fishing for smelt, enjoy exhilarating amusement park rides, and experience the unique joy of traditional winter games. For those seeking a touch of artistry, marvel at the stunning ice wall and ice sculpture exhibitions, showcasing the ephemeral beauty of winter.

Looking for an extra dose of excitement? Don’t miss the special performances by the "Han(Cold) Family" performance group, along with a variety of engaging events. Test your skills in the creative sled competition, the ice curling competition, or the exhilarating blue snake running competition. The 2025 festival promises even more thrilling competitions and performances than previous years, ensuring an unforgettable winter experience.

What Awaits You:

• Main Attractions: Ice sledding, smelt ice fishing, creative sled competition, and traditional winter games.
• Special Events: Performances by the "Han(Cold) Family," the blue snake running competition, and the ice curling competition.
• Artistic Displays: Admire the magnificent ice wall and intricate ice sculptures.
• Delicious Treats: Warm up with savory smelt dishes, hearty gukbap (soup with rice), and a variety of winter snacks.

Fees & Essential Information:

• Free Admission: Explore the festival grounds and enjoy the atmosphere! Some activities require separate fees.
• Smelt Fishing: 16,000 won (fishing rod and bait are additional).
• Sledding: 1 person: 11,000 won / 2-3 people: 16,000 won (grants access to the entire festival area except for the smelt fishing area).
• Andong Love Gift Certificate: Receive a 5,000 won gift certificate with each sledding or fishing purchase (cannot be reused for these activities).

Location & Contact:

📍 Address: 59 Amsan 1-gil, Namhu-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
📞 Inquiries: 054-840-3424
🖥️ Homepage: http://www.binggo.org

🛏️ Find Accommodation Near the Festival

💰 Fee: Free admission (some programs are paid)

What is Andong Amsan?

Andong Amsan is a mountainous area in Andong, South Korea, known for its natural beauty and cultural importance. It forms part of the greater Andong region, which is home to significant historical sites and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Amsan can enjoy panoramic views, dense forests, and peaceful landscapes that are ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.

During winter, the region transforms, offering a picturesque snowy environment that hosts the Andong Amsan Ice Festival. This annual event features a range of winter activities, including ice skating, snow sculptures, and traditional Korean winter games. In addition to its scenic qualities, Andong Amsan is significant for its role in preserving local traditions, making it an appealing destination for those interested in exploring both the natural beauty and cultural history of Korea.

Savor the Sweetness of Winter at the Jirisan Hamyang Dried Persimmon Festival

🗓️ January 3rd – 5th, 2025

Imagine the crisp, clean air of the Jirisan and Deokyu mountains whispering through rows of carefully strung persimmons, slowly transforming them into nature’s candy. That’s the magic behind Hamyang dried persimmons, and you can experience it firsthand at the Jirisan Hamyang Dried Persimmon Festival! From January 3rd to 5th, 2025, join us in Gyosan-ri, Hamyang-eup, Hamyang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, for a celebration of this beloved winter treat. Unlike other festivals that simply offer dried fruit, this one lets you delve into the process, from peeling to savoring, with hands-on activities and the chance to meet the 700+ local farms that meticulously craft these delicacies.

What awaits you?

• Taste the Tradition: Indulge in the uniquely soft texture and intense sweetness of Hamyang dried persimmons. Take advantage of special discount sales and stock up for the winter! You can also explore other regional agricultural specialties.
• Immerse Yourself in the Festivities: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with the Opening Ceremony, groove to the Dried Persimmon New Year Concert, and experience the community spirit at the Citizens’ Harmony Concert.
• Unique Experiences: Ever witnessed a Dried Persimmon Surprise Auction? Here’s your chance! Marvel at the Traditional Dried Persimmon String Display, and partake in the communal Dried Persimmon Rice Cake Sharing and traditional Rice Cake Pounding.
• Hands-on Fun: Get creative with Dried Persimmon Dessert Making, learning to craft delicious treats like Dried Persimmon Paste, Dried Persimmon Mochi, and Energy Balls. Try your hand at Persimmon Peeling and gain a newfound appreciation for the craft.
• Explore Hamyang: Discover "Orgo Hamyang," a mountain climbing certification project, and savor "Ham Tteok," a representative dish of Hamyang County.

Event Details:

• Location: Gyosan-ri, Hamyang-eup, Hamyang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
• Dates: January 3rd – 5th, 2025
• Admission: Free
• Contact: 010-9308-2994 / 010-7744-1663

Plan Your Visit:

• Find accommodation near the festival 🛏️

What is a Dried Persimmon?

A dried persimmon, or "gotgam" in Korean, is a preserved version of the persimmon fruit. The process involves peeling ripe persimmons and allowing them to dehydrate, either naturally under the sun or in controlled indoor settings. Over time, the fruit loses moisture, concentrating its flavors and sweetness and gaining a chewy texture with a slightly leathery exterior.

Drying the fruit enhances its natural sugars, lending a caramel-like complexity to its flavor. As it dries, a thin layer of natural sugar crystals can form on the surface, adding sweetness to each bite. Dried persimmons are enjoyed for their rich taste and as a snack during colder months. They are also versatile, used in a range of dishes from traditional desserts to modern recipes, providing a taste of winter’s offerings.

Greet the New Year’s Sunrise at the Inwangsan Mountain Festival in Jongno-gu

🗓️ January 1, 2025

Kick off 2025 with a vibrant celebration at the 24th annual Inwangsan Mountain Sunrise Festival in Jongno-gu! This free event offers a unique blend of traditional Korean performances and sunrise rituals, creating an unforgettable New Year’s experience. Join fellow revelers at Cheongun Park to share hopes and wishes as the first rays of dawn paint the sky.

What Awaits You:

This year’s festival promises an exciting lineup, starting with a lively Pungmulpae parade to set the festive mood. Ascend to Cheongun Park and immerse yourself in the pre-dawn energy:

Part 1: Sunrise Celebration inside Cheongun Park

• Energizing Performances: Enjoy the rhythmic beats of Nanta, a dynamic non-verbal percussion performance, followed by captivating vocal music.
• Sunrise Ritual: Count down the final seconds of the old year and erupt in a chorus of "Manse!" as the sun crests the horizon.
• New Year’s Traditions: Capture the moment at the photo zone, pen your family precepts for the year ahead, and hang your wish notes, sending your aspirations skyward.

Part 2: Continuing the Festivities

• Traditional Spectacle: Experience the vibrant energy of the lion mask dance and the resounding power of the Dae-gugak (large drum) performance.

Event Details:

• Location: Cheongun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Date: January 1, 2025
• Admission: Free
• Contact: 02-2148-5002

What is Inwangsan Mountain?

Inwangsan Mountain, located in Seoul, South Korea, is a notable natural landmark reaching an elevation of 338 meters. It offers impressive views of the city, drawing residents and visitors alike. Inwangsan has a historical and cultural significance, hosting ancient rituals and storied sites. The mountain’s terrain reflects traditional Korean beliefs, attracting those interested in its natural and spiritual aspects.

The mountain has long held spiritual importance and is a site for shamanistic practices and cultural heritage. Along its trails is Inwangsa Temple, where traditional Buddhist activities continue in a peacefully secluded environment. Its various rock formations and ecosystems provide an escape from the urban environment, while its trails offer a chance to explore Seoul’s natural landscape.

Inwangsan Mountain offers opportunities for hiking, meditation, and enjoying views such as the sunrise over the city. It stands as a destination where visitors can experience nature interwoven with Korean history and tradition, making it a meaningful backdrop for celebrations like the New Year.

Pick Your Own Sweet Treats at Yulbom Botanical Garden’s Strawberry Season!

🗓️ December 25th, 2024 – April 13th, 2025

Get ready to dive headfirst into a world of juicy strawberries at Yulbom Botanical Garden this winter! More than just a beautiful botanical garden spanning over 66,000 square meters, Yulbom offers a unique "Rural Theme" experience, blending pristine nature with hands-on farming fun. This strawberry season, indulge in a variety of delicious activities, from picking your own ripe berries to crafting homemade jams and jellies.

What’s in Store for You?

Beyond the sprawling gardens and picturesque rural landscape, Yulbom Botanical Garden offers a range of activities, perfect for families and nature lovers alike. This year’s strawberry season promises an even sweeter experience with expanded hands-on activities:

Special Strawberry Season Activities (Paid):

• Strawberry Picking: Harvest the freshest strawberries at market price. A perfect activity for all ages!
• Strawberry Jam Making: Learn to make your own delicious strawberry jam using freshly picked berries (16,000 won).
• Strawberry Water Jelly Making: Create delightful strawberry water jelly, a refreshing treat perfect for warm days (16,000 won).
• Strawberry Bread Making: Bake up some delicious strawberry-infused bread (11,000 won).
• Strawberry Drinks: Quench your thirst with refreshing strawberry-themed beverages (6,000 won).
• Pot Exchange Event: From February 1st to April 13th, participate in a unique pot exchange event when you partake in any of the Strawberry Experiences.

Ongoing Activities (Paid):

• Rail Sledding: Whiz down the track for an exhilarating ride.
• Animal Feeding: Get up close and personal with adorable animals.
• Marshmallow Roasting: Enjoy a classic campfire treat.

Winter Season Bonus (December – March 31st):

Receive a free coupon for animal feed or a drink with every entry!

Plan Your Visit

Location: Doma-ri, Toechon-myeon, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do

Entrance Fee: 5,000 won per person (children and adults). Experience fees are separate.

Contact: 031-798-3119

Website: yulbom1107.modoo.at

Accommodation: Find hotels near Yulbom Botanical Garden

💰📞🖥️

What is Yulbom Botanical Garden?

Yulbom Botanical Garden is a space dedicated to the appreciation of plant life, featuring both native and exotic species. Situated in a scenic location, the garden’s diverse range of flora allows visitors to explore and enjoy nature. With its thoughtfully arranged displays, themed areas, and educational exhibits, the garden aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of plant ecosystems.

The garden frequently hosts a variety of events throughout the year, appealing to both families and individuals interested in nature. During strawberry season, for example, visitors are encouraged to pick their own strawberries and join guided tours and workshops. Beyond providing a place for relaxation and exploration, Yulbom Botanical Garden is involved in conservation efforts and environmental education within the community, contributing to the preservation and promotion of botanical knowledge.

Soar High at the Guryeong Village Festival 2024!

🗓️ Date: September 28th, 2024 (Saturday)

Get ready to celebrate the rich history and vibrant spirit of Guryeong Village at the 5th annual Guryeong Village Festival! Themed "Cheonrima’s hometown, Dongsam-dong, soar high!", this year’s festival promises a day of fun, connection, and cultural immersion for residents and visitors alike.

🎉 What to Expect:

1. Main Program:

• Pre-event performance: Kick off the festivities with an exciting opening act.
• Opening ceremony: Join the official commencement of the festival.
• Visiting arts delivery performance: Be captivated by stunning performances from visiting artists.
• Ggoggomu (sharing village history stories): Travel back in time with captivating tales of Guryeong Village’s past.
• Residents’ Harmony Festival: Witness the strong community spirit of Guryeong Village through vibrant performances.
• Guryeong Song Festival: Sing along to your heart’s content at this joyous song festival.
• Closing ceremony: Conclude the day’s celebrations with a memorable closing ceremony.

2. Side Program:

• Seniors Competition: Cheer on the wisdom and experience of our senior participants.
• Guryeong Sports Day: Engage in some friendly competition and test your skills in a variety of sports.

3. Consumer Participation Program:

• Sidewalk picnic mat market: Find unique treasures and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the market.
• Cheonrima photo wall: Capture lasting memories with the iconic Cheonrima as your backdrop.
• Flea market: Discover hidden gems and bargain hunt for one-of-a-kind items.
• Experience, exhibition booths: Engage your senses and learn new things at the various interactive booths.
• Guryeong Eco Village: Discover the beauty of sustainability and eco-conscious living.
• Caricatures: Take home a fun and personalized memento with a caricature portrait.
• Large bubble play: Delight in the simple joy of bubbles and let your inner child run free.

4. Other details:

• Healing rest area: Take a break from the excitement and unwind in a tranquil setting.
• Village cafe discount event: Enjoy special discounts at participating cafes within the village.

📍 Location: 35 Jungri-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan (Dongsam-dong)

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: 051-419-5726

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Yangcheon Rock(樂) Festival Takes Off for its Second Year!

Get ready to rock! The Yangcheon Rock(樂) Festival returns for its second year, bringing a powerful lineup of artists to Sinwol-dong, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, on September 28th, 2024. Located directly beneath the flight path of Gimpo Airport, Sinwol-dong will be buzzing with the energy of diverse musical genres, from rock legends to hip-hop sensations.

This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience with performances by iconic Korean bands like Boohwal and Norazo, hip-hop powerhouses Dynamic Duo, punk rock veterans No Brain, R&B artist Zior Park, local favorites Nasang City Band and THE BLUFF, and the soulful sounds of Heo Jo Gyo.

Two Thrilling Parts:

The festival will be divided into two electrifying parts:

Part 1: Afternoon Groove (14:30~)

Kick off the afternoon with the smooth vibes of Zior Park, followed by the energetic performances of THE BLUFF and the local charm of Nasang City Band.

Part 2: Evening Explosion (17:00~)

As the sun begins to set, prepare for an explosive evening of music with Dynamic Duo, No Brain, Norazo, and the legendary Boohwal taking the stage.

Best of all? Admission is free for the first 4,000 attendees!

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, September 28th, 2024
• Location: Sinwol-dong, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul (Under the Gimpo Airport flight path)
• Admission: Free (for the first 4,000 attendees)
• Inquiries: 02-2021-8913, 8901

Stay Connected:

• Instagram: Yangcheon Cultural Foundation
• Website: Yangcheon Cultural Foundation

Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of music! Mark your calendars and get ready to rock the skies at the Yangcheon Rock(樂) Festival!