Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival: A Celebration of Korean Heritage

Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms of Korea

Date: October 9th – 13th, 2024

The Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival, a vibrant celebration of Korean music and culture, returns for its 55th edition. With a rich history spanning 647 years, dating back to the birth of the legendary Master Park Yeon, this festival showcases the enduring legacy of traditional Korean performing arts. Held annually in Yeongdong, the festival honors Master Park Yeon’s musical contributions while promoting traditional music on a global stage.

Embracing Tradition, Inspiring Innovation:

The 55th Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival aims to share the beauty and depth of Korean traditional music with the world, anticipating a resurgence of interest in Korean culture. As Korea’s sole traditional music festival, it offers a unique platform to experience authentic Korean music performances and engage in immersive cultural programs. Through a diverse range of activities, the festival strives to:

• Preserve and promote traditional performing arts for contemporary audiences.
• Enhance the region’s cultural tourism offerings with locally-focused programs.
• Foster community harmony by encouraging cultural appreciation and participation.

Festival Highlights:

Daily Performance Schedule:

• October 9th (Day 1):
  • Royal Procession and Street Parade (Yeongdong Station to Hasang Parking Lot)
  • 4th National Pungmul (farmers’ band music) Competition
  • 66th Chungbuk Art Exhibition
  • Fireworks Display
• October 10th (Day 2):
  • Cheongo Tabeok Ceremony (Drumming Ceremony for Heaven)
  • Sungmoje (Ancestral Ritual)
  • Academic Conference (Simcheon-myeon Korean Music Experience Village)
  • Opening Ceremony
  • K-Media Performance & Congratulatory Performance
• October 11th (Day 3):
  • Large-scale performance by the National Gugak Center Orchestra
  • Traditional Korean music performances
• October 12th (Day 4):
  • National Saxophone Competition
  • CJB National TOP10 Music Show (Broadcast Recording)
  • Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
• October 13th (Day 5):
  • Traditional Wedding Ceremony Experience
  • Local Elementary, Middle, and High School Korean Music Orchestra Performances
  • Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
  • Closing Ceremony

Ongoing Performances and Activities:

• World Traditional Music Performances: Experience the diversity of global music with performances from 10 countries (CIOFF Performances).
• Traditional and Contemporary Performances: Enjoy a variety of performances including tightrope walking, Madangguk (farmers’ musical drama), street performances, pantomime, fusion Korean music, and local resource performances.
• Korean Music Broadcasting Station: Tune in to live broadcasts and recordings.
• Park Yeon Film Screening: Learn more about the life and legacy of Master Park Yeon through film.

Korean Music Experience Village (Branch Event):

• Cheongo Tabeok Ceremony (Drumming Ceremony for Heaven) & Sungmoje (Ancestral Ritual)
• Korean Music Academic Conference
• Nangye Korean Music Orchestra Regular Performances (Day 4 & 5)

Culinary Delights and Immersive Experiences:

Food Zone:

• 11 Eup-Myeon (township) Saemaul Restaurants (Flavor Lounge): Savor the authentic flavors of Yeongdong.
• Food Trucks: Enjoy a diverse range of street food options.
• Children’s Food Zone: Dedicated area with kid-friendly treats.

*Please note that information on representative food is from the previous year’s (2023) festival, and details on the 2024 food offerings are currently being updated.*

Korean Music Theme Park Zone:

• Korean Music (Night View) Photo Zone: Capture stunning memories against a backdrop of traditional music-themed installations.
• Korean Music Experience Zone: Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about traditional instruments.
• Korean Music Healing Art Zone: Discover the therapeutic power of Korean music.
• Korean Music Exhibition Hall: Explore an exhibition of traditional instruments and enjoy hands-on experiences.
• Large Korean Musical Instrument Exhibition: Marvel at the craftsmanship of traditional Korean instruments.

Amenities:

• Korean Music Content Complex Space: The festival utilizes indoor spaces such as the Multipurpose Cultural Arts Center, corridors, and healing centers to provide a comprehensive Korean music experience.

Plan Your Visit:

Location: 117, Yeongdong Healing-ro, Yeongdong-eup, Yeongdong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

Admission Fee: Free

Contact: +82 43-745-8917 ~ 9

Website: http://www.ydnan-gye.co.kr/

Festival Poster:

Gumi Food Festival: A Culinary Celebration in the Heart of Korea

Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024

The Gumi City Food Festival returns for its third year, promising a delightful experience for all ages. Launched in 2022 to uplift spirits and revitalize the local economy, the festival offers a vibrant blend of culinary delights, captivating performances, and engaging activities for families, friends, and couples alike.

Romantic Gumi: Sights and Sounds

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with a variety of captivating sights and sounds:

• Opening Performance and Parade: Kick off the festivities with a spectacular opening ceremony and a vibrant parade showcasing the city’s spirit.
• Food Art Contest (Plating): Witness the artistry of culinary presentation as chefs compete to create visually stunning dishes.
• Fork Festival & Autumn Romantic Busking: Enjoy live music performances that create a romantic and enchanting ambiance.
• Linked Events: Enhance your experience by exploring concurrent events such as the October Music Concert, National Song Festival, and the 2024 Gumi Reading Culture Festival.

Delicious Gumi: A Gastronomic Adventure

Embark on a culinary journey through a diverse range of flavors and cuisines:

• Gumi Gourmet Zone: Discover innovative and exciting new dishes created in collaboration with renowned Chef Ho Young Jung.
• Food Zone: Explore a wide array of food booths offering over 200 delectable menu items to tantalize your taste buds.
• Samgyeopgugeo Zone: Experience the joy of Korean BBQ in a unique "Camping Zone in the City" setting.
• Local Agricultural Specialties: Savor the freshest produce and regional specialties that Gumi has to offer.
• Gumi Food Companies: Discover and support local food companies showcasing their unique products.

Fun Gumi: Entertainment for Everyone

Engage in a variety of fun-filled activities for all ages:

• Family Lunch Box Contest: Showcase your culinary creativity and compete for the title of best family lunch box.
• Silent Disco (EDM Party): Dance the night away at a silent disco featuring electrifying EDM beats.
• Mukbang Contest: Witness competitive eaters take on the challenge of devouring Gumi Bread and Gumi Danggim Lager with impressive speed.
• Street Events: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with various street performances and interactive activities.
• Air Bounce & Experience Zone: Let the kids (and the young at heart) enjoy inflatable fun and engaging experiences in science and cooking.

Event Details

Location: Songjeong-dong, Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Admission: Free (Some activities may require a fee)
Contact: 054-480-5592
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gumi_food_festival
Homepage: (Homepage link not provided in draft)

Poster:

Step Back in Time at the Yeongju Musimeongddaegi Bridge Festival

Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024

The Yeongju Musimeongddaegi Bridge Festival is a captivating annual event held in the picturesque Museom Village, an island village encircled by the tranquil Naeseongcheon Stream. This festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich traditional culture of the region, centered around the historical significance of the single-log bridge that once served as the sole connection to the outside world.

Engaging Festival Highlights:

1. Main Programs:

• Musimeongddaegi Bridge Performance & Traditional Wedding Reenactment: Witness a captivating performance that brings the history of the bridge to life, followed by a vibrant reenactment of a traditional Korean wedding ceremony.
• Traditional Merchant Parade Reenactment: Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a bygone era as you watch a lively reenactment of a traditional merchant parade.
• Musimeong Healing Rope Experience: Participate in a unique and therapeutic experience involving ropes, designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
• Musimeong Village Stamp Tour: Embark on an exciting journey through the village, collecting stamps along the way to commemorate your visit.
• Musimeong Children’s Nature Playground: A dedicated space for children to connect with nature through play and exploration.
• Musimeong White Sand Healing Barefoot Walking: Enjoy the soothing sensation of walking barefoot on the soft white sand, a practice known for its therapeutic benefits.
• Musimeong Sand Art (Photo Zone): Capture memorable moments against the backdrop of stunning sand art creations.

2. Permanent Programs:

• Musimeong Village Life Four-Cut Photos: Take home a fun souvenir with four-cut photo strips capturing your experience in the village.
• Traditional Play (Kite Flying, Jegichagi, Tuho, etc.): Engage in traditional Korean games like kite flying, jegichagi (a game involving kicking a shuttlecock), and tuho (arrow throwing).
• Slow Mailbox: Send a heartfelt message to yourself or a loved one through the slow mailbox, to be delivered at a later date.
• Photo Exhibition: Explore a captivating exhibition showcasing the history and beauty of Museom Village through stunning photographs.
• Musimeong Flea Market: Discover unique treasures and local crafts at the vibrant flea market.

Location and Contact Information:

Address: Sudori, Munsu-myeon, Yeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Admission Fee: Free

Inquiries: +82-54-630-8709

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yctf0518/

Website: http://yctf.or.kr/museom

Festival Poster:

Royal Culture Festival: A Journey Through Korea’s Rich Heritage

Date: October 9th – 13th, 2024

The Royal Culture Festival is a biannual celebration of Korean cultural heritage held within the majestic setting of Seoul’s five grand palaces – Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung – and the Jongmyo Shrine. These historical landmarks, steeped in the history of the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, provide a breathtaking backdrop for this immersive cultural experience.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, the festival offers an array of captivating programs throughout the spring and autumn seasons.

Spring Highlights:

• Time Travel, King Sejong (Gyeongbokgung Palace): This main program transports visitors back in time to the reign of the revered King Sejong, known for his significant contributions to Korean culture and history.
• K-Heritage Market (Heungnyemun Square): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Korean market, showcasing a diverse range of handicrafts, cuisine, and cultural performances.
• Symbiosis: Overlapping Space and Time (Changdeokgung Palace): This exhibition, held within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changdeokgung Palace, presents a captivating display of traditional Korean crafts.

Autumn Highlights:

• Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Performance: Experience the elegance and beauty of Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, through mesmerizing performances set against the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
• Peach Blossoms, It’s Sad to Think (Changgyeonggung Palace): Be captivated by this enchanting musical performance that tells a poignant story through traditional Korean music and dance.
• Royal Palace Concert – Ballet x Sujecheon (Changgyeonggung Palace): Witness a unique fusion of classical ballet and traditional Korean Sujecheon music in this captivating concert.

Program Highlights:

• Main Programs:
  • Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Performance
  • Changdeokgung ‘Humanities Concert’
  • Changgyeonggung Royal Palace Musical ‘Peach Blossoms, It’s Sad to Think’
• Associated Program:
  • Royal Palace Music Concert – Ballet x Sujecheon
• Participation Program:
  • Beautiful Royal Palace Hanbok Photo Exhibition

The Royal Culture Festival offers a diverse range of programs, including performances, exhibitions, hands-on experiences, and reenactments of traditional ceremonies. Each program is carefully curated to reflect the unique characteristics of the palace or shrine where it is held.

The festival organizers strive to make the experience accessible and engaging for all visitors, inviting everyone to become an active participant in this celebration of Korean culture and heritage.

Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Entrance Fees:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: 3,000 won
• Changdeokgung Palace: 3,000 won
• Deoksugung Palace: 1,000 won
• Changgyeonggung Palace: 1,000 won
• Gyeonghuigung Palace: Free

Free Admission:

• Korean citizens aged 24 and under or 65 and over
• Visitors wearing Hanbok

(For other free admission benefits, please refer to the Cultural Heritage Administration website.)

Contact: 1522-2295

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royalculturefestival_official/

Website: www.kh.or.kr/fest

Poster:

Experience the Magic of the Heungbu Festival in Namwon

Date: October 4th – 6th, 2024

Location: Seongsan-ri, Inwol-myeon and Seong-ri, Ayeng-myeon, Namwon-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea

Journey to the birthplace of the beloved Korean folktale, Heungbu-jeon, and immerse yourself in the enchanting Heungbu Festival. Held annually since 1993, this vibrant festival celebrates the timeless values of fraternity, sharing, repayment, and luck, offering a captivating blend of traditional culture and modern entertainment for locals and tourists alike.

Festival Highlights

1. Heungbu’s Big Success Market (Yocheon Riverside in front of Love Square)

Embrace the spirit of good fortune at Heungbu’s Big Success Market! Discover treasures at the Used Market, where you can find unique items at bargain prices. Feast your eyes on the vibrant Art Market, showcasing the talents of local artists. And don’t miss the Agricultural Products Market, offering a bounty of fresh, high-quality produce directly from the source.

For an extra dose of luck, participate in the exciting Heungbu Auction, held periodically throughout the festival. Who knows, you might just strike it rich!

2. Into the Story of Heungbu and Nolbu (Love Square)

Step into the pages of Heungbu-jeon and become part of the story! Capture unforgettable family photos dressed in traditional straw mats, experience the thrill of sticking rice onto a wall (a key scene from the tale), and even try your hand at carrying a flower pot, just like Heungbu.

Rumor has it that if you fully immerse yourself in these activities, you’ll receive a special gourd seed coupon from a friendly swallow, symbolizing the blossoming of good luck in your life.

3. Heungbuja Concert (October 4th, 6:00 PM)

Kick off the festival with a bang at the exhilarating Heungbuja Concert! This high-energy performance is a spectacular celebration of the Heungbu Festival’s opening, promising an unforgettable musical experience.

4. Kidzania GO! (Price: TBD)

Inspire the next generation of dreamers at Kidzania GO! This interactive experience allows children to explore various professions in a fun and engaging way, fostering their aspirations and confidence.

Family Fun

In addition to the main events, the Heungbu Festival offers a variety of performances designed especially for children, as well as exciting play facilities. Make the Heungbu Festival your family’s October destination for a weekend filled with laughter, learning, and cultural immersion.

Festival Information

Address: 12, Yangnim-gil, Namwon-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea

Admission: Partially paid (some activities may require fees)

Contact: +82-63-620-6170

Website: www.heungbu.org

Yeonsu Neungheodae Culture Festival: A Celebration of History and Harmony

Date: October 4th – 6th, 2024

Location: 350, Central-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon (Songdo-dong)

Admission: Free

The 12th annual Yeonsu Neungheodae Culture Festival invites you to experience a vibrant celebration of history, culture, and community spirit in the heart of Yeonsu-gu, Incheon. This grand festival draws inspiration from the historical significance of Neungheodae, a port that once served as a departure point for ancient Baekje envoys embarking on journeys of exploration and diplomacy.

Immerse Yourself in History and Culture

The festival offers a captivating blend of traditional and modern experiences, designed to engage visitors of all ages. Highlights include:

1. Baekje Envoys Parade: Witness the festival’s signature event, a spectacular parade that recreates the grandeur of Baekje-era processions. The parade features elaborate costumes, traditional music, and captivating performances that bring history to life.

2. Traditional Performances: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Korean culture with a series of traditional performances, including:

• Traditional Costume Gala Show: Admire the elegance and artistry of traditional Korean attire.
• Traditional Plays: Enjoy captivating theatrical performances that showcase Korean folklore and storytelling.
• Hannaru Art Festival: Explore the vibrant world of Korean arts and crafts.

3. Hannaru Marketplace: Step back in time at the Hannaru Marketplace, a recreation of an ancient Yeonsu-gu market. Explore a variety of historical and cultural programs, and discover the rich heritage of the region.

4. Wellness Program: Experience the festival’s exciting new addition, the Wellness Program, featuring:

• Food Truck Plaza: Indulge in a diverse selection of culinary delights from food trucks.
• EDM Performances: Get energized by electrifying EDM performances.
• Sports Entertainment: Participate in engaging sports activities and entertainment.

Engaging Events for Everyone

Beyond the main program, the festival offers a diverse range of activities and events to foster community spirit and provide entertainment for all:

• Eco-Friendly Bicycle Festival: Promote sustainability and enjoy a fun-filled cycling event.
• Architectural Model Building Contest: Showcase your creativity and architectural skills.
• Citizen’s Day Awards Ceremony: Recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to the community.
• Celebrity Congratulatory Performances: Enjoy special performances by renowned celebrities.
• Fireworks: Conclude the festival with a dazzling fireworks display.

Resident Harmony and Linked Events

The festival also incorporates several community-focused events, including:

• 29th Citizen’s Day Ceremony
• 19th Our Center Pride Competition
• Neungheodae Drawing Contest
• Hanmaeum Sports Competition

Food and Festivities

Enjoy a variety of culinary delights and explore unique offerings at the festival’s:

• 6 Food Booths: Sample delicious local and international cuisine.
• 20 Flea Market Booths: Discover unique treasures and handcrafted goods.
• 3 Sister City Booths: Explore cultural offerings from Yeonsu-gu’s sister cities.

Connect with the Festival

Website: www.yeonsu.go.kr

Instagram: @togetheryeonsu

Inquiries: +82-32-749-7330

Join us at the Yeonsu Neungheodae Culture Festival for an unforgettable celebration of history, culture, and community!

Escape from the Night Pirate Amusement Park: A Thrilling Real Escape Game Adventure at Hirakata Park

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as Hirakata Park transforms into a thrilling pirate haven for "Escape from the Night Pirate Amusement Park," a real escape game experience created by SCRAP, running from September 13th to October 14th, 2024.

This immersive event is part of the acclaimed "National Night Amusement Park" series, which has captivated over 300,000 participants nationwide. Embark on a quest to uncover hidden treasure within the park, while outsmarting rival pirate crews under the cloak of darkness.

Two Exciting Ways to Play:

1. Night Performance:

Experience the ultimate escape game adventure during the exclusive Night Performance, where Hirakata Park is rented out for participants only. Over 1,000 players will explore the park’s enchanting atmosphere, deciphering clues and solving puzzles to locate the hidden treasure before time runs out.

• Date: September 13th – October 14th, 2024 (select dates)
• Time:
  • Opens: 5:45 PM
  • Reception Closes: 6:15 PM
  • Starts: 6:30 PM
  • Scheduled End: 8:45 PM

2. Day Course:

For a more relaxed adventure, choose the Day Course, offering a captivating storyline that sets the stage for the nighttime escapades. As an advance party for a pirate crew, your mission is to survey the park and uncover vital clues. Enjoy the park’s attractions while immersing yourself in the mystery-solving experience at your own pace.

• Date: September 13th – October 14th, 2024
• Time: Park opening hours until closing time. Reception closes at 3:00 PM.

Hirakata Park Location:

Hirakata Park
1-1 Hirakata Koencho, Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture

Ticket Options & Pricing:

• Day Course Only:
  • Advance Purchase: ¥3,000
  • Regular Price: ¥3,300
• Night Performance Only: ¥4,000
• Night Performance with Same-Day Park Admission: ¥4,300
• All-Day with Park Admission:
  • Advance Purchase: ¥6,500
  • Regular Price: ¥6,800

Note:

• Prices in parentheses indicate advance purchase rates.
• Tickets marked "[with admission ticket]" grant access to Hirakata Park before the Night Performance begins on the event day. Attraction fees are separate.
• The Day Course does not include park admission. Separate tickets are required.

Ready for an Adventure?

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official website: https://realdgame.jp/s/nightpirates/

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience Hirakata Park in a whole new way! Gather your crew and prepare for an unforgettable escape game adventure.