Unforgettable Autumn Nights: Top 5 Festivals in Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Have you made your autumn travel plans yet?
October in Gyeongsangnam-do is perfect for strolling under a gentle breeze during the day and soft lighting at night. The province hosts numerous festivals against the backdrop of cities, rural landscapes, rivers, and the sea, creating unforgettable autumn nights.
October is an ideal time to visit, with many festivals featuring night views, lights, culture, and food, making it perfect for taking photos and enjoying time with family, lovers, or friends. Today, we're sharing a carefully curated list of confirmed festivals happening this October based on the latest information. We've excluded any canceled festivals (e.g., Sancheong Herb Festival) to avoid confusion.
So, let's explore the BEST 5 festivals in Gyeongsangnam-do this October that will make your autumn nights even more special!
1. Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival – Embracing the Light of Autumn Nights
Dates: October 4th (Sat) ~ October 19th (Sun), 2025
Location: Namgang River and Jinjuseong Fortress area, Jinju
The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival is undoubtedly the highlight of Gyeongsangnam-do's October festivals. The sight of thousands of lanterns floating on the Namgang River is breathtaking. As you walk along the riverbank, you can write your wishes on wish lanterns, and enjoy busking performances, fireworks, and even a drone light show, experiencing a completely different, vibrant side of Jinju at night.
📸 Instagrammable Spots:
- Panoramic view of Namgang River from Chokseoknu Pavilion
- The moment when lanterns and fireworks come together
- Silhouettes of people walking along the riverbank + lantern reflections
✨ Nearby Recommendations:
- Stroll and explore the history of Jinjuseong Fortress
- Try local delicacies like Jinju Bibimbap and Honey Bread
- Accommodation with night views around the Namgang River
2. Uiryeong Rich Rich Festival – Experience the Habits of the Wealthy
Dates: October 9th (Thurs) ~ October 12th (Sun), 2025
Location: Uiryeong County Citizens' Park and Sottbawi Rock area
The Rich Rich Festival in Uiryeong is a unique festival themed around 'wealth.' You can taste local specialties and healthy food, and there are participatory programs like the 'Rich Night Run,' making it popular with families. At night, photo zones are set up where you can take great photos under the colorful lights.
📸 Instagrammable Spots:
- Night photos with Sottbawi Rock in the background and lights
- Photo zones and themed sculptures within the festival grounds
- The vibrant market scene in the lights
✨ Nearby Recommendations:
- Local food like Uiryeong Manggaetteok and Soba
- Nature trails around Uiryeong County
- A quiet overnight stay in a small pension or guesthouse
3. Gyeongnam Goseong Dinosaur World Expo – A Dinosaur Adventure with the Kids
Dates: October 1st (Wed) ~ November 9th (Sun), 2025
Location: Danghangpo Tourist Site, Goseong
A large-scale Dinosaur Expo is held annually in Goseong. With giant dinosaur models, exhibition halls, and experience programs, it's a perfect family festival, especially for those with children. Beyond simple exhibitions, programs like dinosaur footprint experiences and virtual reality (VR) dinosaur exploration are also available.
📸 Instagrammable Spots:
- A scene where dinosaur models and the sunset blend together
- Large dinosaur sculptures in front of the exhibition hall
- Photo zones with added night lighting
✨ Nearby Recommendations:
- Stroll along Danghangpo Beach
- Goseong's seafood dishes (especially grilled fish, seafood stew)
- An overnight stay in accommodation with sea views
4. Tongyeong Eobu Jangteo (Fishermen's Market) Festival – A Food Festival by the Sea
Dates: October 24th (Fri) ~ October 26th (Sun), 2025
Location: Tongyeong Eobu Jangteo area
You can't talk about Tongyeong without mentioning the sea. The Eobu Jangteo Festival, held in the autumn evenings, is a hands-on festival where you can taste and enjoy seafood prepared directly by Tongyeong fishermen. Various food stalls and performances unfold against the backdrop of the harbor, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
📸 Instagrammable Spots:
- The red sunset behind the harbor
- The scenery where market lights and seafood blend together
- Packed food stall alleys
✨ Nearby Recommendations:
- Tongyeong Central Market Tour (Honey Bread, Raw Fish, Chungmu Kimbap)
- Dpirang Night Walk, Tongyeong Cable Car
- A relaxing night enjoying an ocean view accommodation
5. Gaecheon Art Festival & Korea Drama Festival – The City of Art and Drama
Dates: Opening October 10th, 2025 (Check Jinju's official announcements for detailed schedules)
Location: Jinju area (Jinjuseong Fortress, Performance Halls, etc.)
In addition to the Yudeung Festival, Jinju also hosts festivals themed around art and drama. With street performances, installation art, and special stages for drama fans, it's perfect for those who love culture and art. Visiting during the same period as the Yudeung Festival will double your enjoyment of the trip as you can experience both festivals.
📸 Instagrammable Spots:
- Stage lighting and actor silhouettes
- Drama Festival Photo Zone
- Scenes where lanterns and artworks are captured together
✨ Nearby Recommendations:
- Explore Jinju Traditional Market
- Enjoy a relaxing tea time at Jinju's cafe street after enjoying the art festival
- A night walk combined with the Yudeung Festival
October in Gyeongsangnam-do is truly a month of festivals. Lanterns light up the river, the sea adds vibrancy with food, and art and culture fill the streets. The Goseong Dinosaur Expo is perfect for families, the Jinju Yudeung Festival is great for couples and friends, the Tongyeong Eobu Jangteo Festival is ideal for foodies, and the Uiryeong Rich Rich Festival and Gaecheon Art Festival are well-suited for emotional travelers.
This autumn, create special memories that combine light, culture, food, and experiences, rather than just a simple trip.
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