Dive into Flavor at the Gwangju Kimchi Festival
🗓️ Date: October 18th – 20th, 2024
Nestled amidst fertile plains and embraced by mountains and sea, Gwangju has long been celebrated as a culinary haven. Among its many treasures, Gwangju kimchi reigns supreme, a testament to the region’s rich flavors and time-honored traditions. This isn’t just any kimchi; it’s earned special recognition as “Jeolla-do Kimchi” and “Gwangju Kimchi.”
What sets Gwangju kimchi apart? It’s a symphony of freshness and quality, beginning with a vibrant array of vegetables and culminating in a hearty blend of anchovy sauce, glutinous rice paste, sesame seeds, and more. This dedication to using the finest ingredients, preserving traditional methods, and adding a touch of homemade love is the secret behind Gwangju kimchi’s unique and unforgettable flavor.
The Gwangju World Kimchi Festival is a vibrant celebration of this culinary heritage. It’s an invitation to everyone – food enthusiasts, curious travelers, and seasoned kimchi lovers alike – to delve into the art of kimchi-making, savor delicious food, and immerse themselves in Korean food culture. For kimchi producers, it’s a fantastic platform to connect with consumers, making the festival a bustling marketplace and a must-visit for anyone passionate about kimchi.
What Awaits You at the Festival:
1. Main Events:
- Thousand People’s Feast: Imagine a massive collection of food stalls, each offering a unique take on kimchi and other local delicacies. This is a feast for the senses you won’t want to miss.
- Michelin Chef Food Show: Prepare to be dazzled as renowned chefs take the stage, showcasing their culinary prowess and innovative kimchi creations.
2. Other Activities:
- Kimchi Exhibitions: Embark on a journey through the history, varieties, and cultural significance of kimchi.
- Kimchi Sales: Bring home the taste of Gwangju! Purchase a variety of kimchi products directly from the passionate producers.
- Kimchi Making Workshops: Ever wanted to learn the art of kimchi-making? Here’s your chance! Experienced instructors will guide you through the process.
- Cultural Performances: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Gwangju with captivating traditional music, dance, and other performances.
3. Visitor Participation:
- Kimchi Pancake (Kimchijeon) Making: Get your hands dirty and try your hand at making kimchijeon, a popular and delicious Korean pancake.
- Main Stage Activities: Join in the fun with engaging games and activities on the main stage.
4. Additional Highlights:
- Gwangju-Jeonnam Salt Collaboration Pavilion: Discover the importance of salt in kimchi-making. Explore exhibits and purchase salt products, a key ingredient in this iconic dish.
Festival Information:
📍 Location: 111, Naebang-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju
💰 Admission: Free
📞 Contact: +82-62-613-3992
⭐️ Instagram: Follow them on Instagram!
🖥️ Website: Gwangju Kimchi Festival Official Website
Food Information – Festival Food:
Please note that the food information below is from the 2023 festival. The 2024 food information is currently being updated.
- 한입김밥(갓김치/묵은지) (Bite-sized Kimbap (Mustard Leaf Kimchi/Aged Kimchi)) – 3,000원 (3,000 won)
- 명인 배추김치 + 돼지고기 수육 (Master’s Napa Cabbage Kimchi + Boiled Pork Belly) – 5,000원 (5,000 won)
- 광주김치 보쌈 (Gwangju Kimchi Bossam) – 29,000원 (29,000 won)
- 광주김치 국밥 (Gwangju Kimchi Gukbap) – 9,000원 (9,000 won)
- 김치빤세우 (Kimchi Bahn Xeo Pancake with Shrimp) – 29,000원 (29,000 won)
- 김치짜조&반미 (Kimchi Fried Spring Rolls & Banh Mi) – 8,000원 (8,000 won)
- 김치 잔치국수 (Kimchi Janchi Guksu (Feast Noodles)) – 8,000원 (8,000 won)
- 김치 치즈 고구마 (Kimchi Cheese Sweet Potato) – 6,000원 (6,000 won)
- 김치 순살바싹치킨 (Kimchi Boneless Crispy Fried Chicken) – 10,000원 (10,000 won)
