Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival
OctoberGyeonggi
This is Suwon's signature festival, bringing King Jeongjo's royal procession to Hwaseong, made to honor his mother Lady Hyegyeong, to life with a modern touch. It takes place around Suwon Hwaseong, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. By day you can try traditional culture activities, and by night enjoy performances set against the fortress scenery. Entry is free, though some pre-booked programs charge a fee.
When is it held?
Every year around early October. The exact dates change every year.
This year’s dates
Held 2026: Oct 4 ~ Oct 11 (ended). Check the official website for next year’s dates.
Before you go, check this year’s dates and fees on the official website.
What can you do there?
- Watch the royal procession parade, Jeongjo's Royal Tomb Visit
- See the themed show "Suwon Fantasy – Yajo"
- Enjoy the water performance "Seonyumong" and palace night shows
- Join hands-on fun like the Suwon Palanquin Race and fortress play area
- Try traditional games and snacks at the Global Village lounge
Tips for visitors from abroad
Getting there
From Seoul you can reach the Gyeonggi area by KTX, express bus or intercity bus. Once there, check public transit to the venue in a map app (Naver Map and KakaoMap are the most accurate in Korea).
Naver Map ↗ KakaoMap ↗ Google Maps ↗ Official website ↗
What to wear and bring
Autumn days are mild and nights are cool. Bring a light jacket and shoes that are comfortable for long walks.
This is general guidance. Check the official website for what to bring and how to enter each event.
Photos
Source: Korea Tourism Organization TourAPI. Dates may change. · Photo: Korea Tourism Organization · KOGL Type3 · Shown unaltered.
Other festivals in the same month
Frequently asked questions
When is Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival held?
Every year around early October. The exact dates change every year. This year’s dates have not been announced yet.
How do I get to Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival?
From Seoul, take KTX, an express bus or an intercity bus toward Gyeonggi, then check public transit to the venue in a map app.
Is Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival free?
The official overview does not list admission. Please check the official website.
Places to visit near this festival in Gyeonggi
Top attractions close to the event site. Add them to the same day trip.
Source: Korea Tourism Organization TourAPI. Dates may change.