Events in Jeju

Events & Festivals in Jeju

Your complete guide to what's happening throughout the year

Jeju Island runs a full calendar of events beyond its natural scenery. Each month brings gatherings that reflect the island's distinct culture, from ancient harvest rituals to modern music festivals. Many events tie directly to local agricultural cycles or maritime traditions. Plan your visit around these happenings. You'll connect more with Jeju's community. The island's events range from quiet, local observances to large, lively festivals that draw international visitors.

Peak event periods
  • Jeju Fire Festival in early March
  • Cherry Blossom and Canola Flower Festivals in April
  • Summer Water Festival and Surf Festival in July and August
  • Autumn Food Festivals in September and October
  • Year-end Christmas Market and Countdown in December
Public holidays in Jeju: 10 October 2026 to 9 October 2027
  • 25 December 2026 크리스마스
  • 1 January 2027 새해
  • 6 February 2027 설날
  • 8 February 2027 설날
  • 9 February 2027 설날
  • 1 March 2027 3·1절
  • 3 May 2027 노동절
  • 5 May 2027 어린이날
  • 13 May 2027 부처님 오신 날
  • 6 June 2027 현충일
  • 19 July 2027 제헌절
  • 16 August 2027 광복절
  • 14 September 2027 추석
  • 15 September 2027 추석
  • 16 September 2027 추석
  • 4 October 2027 개천절
Banks, offices and some attractions may close, and transport and prices can change around these dates.

January

🎉Jeju Winter Sea Ice Festival

Dates vary yearly Hado Port area
festival

This festival celebrates winter by the sea. Activities include ice fishing, sledding, and seafood tastings. It runs during the coldest part of the year, often on the northern coast. Families with children love the hands-on activities. The atmosphere is brisk and festive. Local food stalls serve warm dishes.

Tip: Dress in layers with waterproof outerwear. Arrive early. You'll avoid long queues for popular activities like ice fishing.

February

🎭Jeju Winter Sea Parting Festival

Dates vary yearly Hyeongjeseom Islet area
Free cultural

Inspired by a local legend, this event recreates the mythical parting of the sea at a specific tidal flat. Participants walk across the exposed seabed to a small islet. It includes folk performances. The experience is unique and tied to Jeju's storytelling traditions.

Tip: Check the precise tidal times announced by the festival organizers. Wear waterproof boots or shoes with good grip for walking on the wet sand.

March

🎭Jeju Fire Festival

Dates vary yearly Saebyeol Oreum in Bongseong-ri
Free cultural

A major event rooted in an ancient agricultural practice of burning fields to purge pests and encourage new growth. The main spectacle is a large, controlled bonfire on a hillside. Drumming, fire walking, and folk performances accompany it. Large crowds gather. They seek a dramatic cultural experience.

Tip: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The ground can be uneven. Viewing spots fill hours before the main fire lighting.

April

🎉Jeju Canola Flower Festival

Dates vary yearly Various coastal areas like Hyeopjae
Free festival

Held when yellow canola flowers blanket the coastal fields, this festival offers photo opportunities, walking paths through the blooms, and local product markets. The mood is light and spring-like. Couples, photographers, and families come here. They want a pleasant outdoor day.

Tip: Visit on a weekday morning. Fewer people gather then. The light is softer for photography. The flowers peak in early to mid-April.

⚽Jeju International Ultramarathon

Dates vary yearly Starts in Jeju City, course around the island
Book Ahead sports

A challenging race takes participants along coastal roads and past volcanic scenery. Distances vary, catering to serious endurance athletes. International runners join this event. Spectators can cheer at various points along the course. The route shows Jeju's landscape.

Tip: Runners must register months in advance. Slots are limited. Spectators should check the course map. Find recommended, less crowded cheering points.

🎉Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeonnong-ro in Jeju City
Free festival

Celebrating the brief bloom of the king cherry trees, this festival features illuminated evening walks under the blossoms, street performances, and food vendors. The atmosphere is celebratory and crowded. The main venue is a long avenue lined with trees. It creates a pink canopy.

Tip: Visit after sunset. The illuminations are worth it. The festival area is very walkable. Use public transport. Parking is scarce.

May

🎭Jeju Haenyeo Festival

Dates vary yearly Hyeopjae Beach or Seongsan Ilchulbong area
Free cultural

This event honors Jeju's female free-divers, the haenyeo. It includes diving demonstrations, haenyeo songs, and opportunities to try fresh seafood harvested on site. The festival provides insight into this unique matriarchal culture. It is both educational and engaging. All ages enjoy it.

Tip: Bring a windbreaker. The coastal area can be breezy. Stay for the diving competitions. Watch the haenyeo in action.

🍽️Jeju Tangerine Blossom Festival

Dates vary yearly Tangerine orchards in Seogwipo area
Free food

Celebrating the fragrant bloom of the tangerine trees, this festival offers orchard walks, tangerine-themed foods and drinks, and local crafts. The scent in the air is distinctive. It is a more relaxed, family-oriented event. The focus is Jeju's well-known agricultural product.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Orchard paths require them. Try the tangerine blossom tea. It is only available during this short season.

🍽️Jeju Green Tea Festival

Dates vary yearly O'Sulloc Tea Museum and fields
Book Ahead food

Held in the island's green tea fields, this festival offers tea picking experiences, traditional tea ceremonies, and tastings of various green tea products. The setting is serene and scenic. It appeals to those interested in wellness and local agricultural specialties.

Tip: Book the tea-picking experience in advance. Slots are limited. The festival area is quite spacious. Allow plenty of time to explore.

June

🍽️Jeju Cider Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeju Folk Village or similar outdoor venue
food

A summer event celebrating locally produced cider and other fermented drinks. Visitors can sample different flavors, learn about the brewing process, and enjoy live music. The atmosphere is casual and social. It is good for a warm afternoon.

Tip: Purchase a tasting glass for unlimited small pours. Designate a driver or use taxis. The festival site can be remote.

July

🎉Jeju Water Festival

Dates vary yearly Jungmun Tourist Complex area
festival

A summer festival focused on water play to beat the heat. It features large water slides, foam parties, and water gun zones set up on a beach or open field. The mood is energetic and wet. Teenagers and young adults love it. Live music often accompanies the activities.

Tip: Bring a full change of clothes, a towel, and waterproof bags for electronics. Buy tickets online in advance. They are cheaper.

🎵Jeju International Wind Orchestra Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeju Arts Center and public squares
Book Ahead music

Wind ensembles and marching bands from around Korea and abroad perform in concerts at indoor halls and outdoor plazas. The repertoire ranges from classical to pop. Music lovers and families enjoy this. The outdoor performances have a casual, picnic-like atmosphere.

Tip: Book tickets for indoor concerts ahead of time. Outdoor performances are free. Bring a mat. Sit on the grass.

August

⚽Jeju Surf Festival

Dates vary yearly Samyang Beach
Book Ahead sports

A competition for local and visiting surfers held at one of Jeju's popular beach breaks. It includes various board categories and sometimes beginner lessons. The vibe is laid-back and beachy. Spectators watch from the sand. Vendor stalls sell beach gear and food.

Tip: Competitor registration fills quickly. Bring sun protection. Arrive early. Secure a shaded spot.

🛒Jeju Night Market

Dates vary yearly Seogwipo Downtown or Jeju City Hall area
Free market

A seasonal night market operating on weekends, featuring food stalls serving street food, local crafts, and sometimes live music. It is a popular thing to do in Jeju at night. Visitors enjoy casual dining and shopping in the open air.

Tip: Go with an appetite. Share multiple dishes. The market gets busier after 8 PM. Go earlier for shorter lines.

September

🍽️Jeju Black Pork Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeju Racecourse grounds
food

A culinary event dedicated to Jeju's famous black pork. Visitors can sample different pork dishes, watch cooking competitions, and learn about the breed. The focus is hearty, flavorful eating. Food enthusiasts flock here. It is a highlight for those exploring Jeju food.

Tip: Purchase a tasting ticket. Get small portions from multiple vendors. Go with a group. Share and try more varieties.

🎭Jeju International Film Festival

Dates vary yearly Various venues in Jeju City and Seogwipo
Book Ahead cultural

This festival screens independent and art-house films from Korea and around the world, often with a focus on island or environmental themes. Screenings take place in cinemas and unique outdoor venues. Film buffs attend. Discussions with directors follow some screenings.

Tip: The schedule releases a few weeks prior. Book tickets for popular screenings immediately. They sell out fast.

October

🍽️Jeju Ponytail Fish Festival

Dates vary yearly Moseulpo Port
food

Celebrating the autumn catch of galchi, or hairtail fish, this festival offers grilled fish tastings, sashimi, and hearty stews. Cooking demonstrations and fishing experiences are part of the program. The event is very local. It focuses on fresh, seasonal seafood.

Tip: The best tastings come from tents run by local fishing cooperatives. Come hungry. Try the spicy hairtail stew.

⚽Jeju Olle Walking Festival

Dates vary yearly Various Olle trail courses
Book Ahead sports

Walk selected sections of the Jeju Olle trails, the network of paths circling the island. The festival includes guided walks, cultural performances at rest stops, and camaraderie. It suits active travelers who want to see Jeju's coastal and rural landscapes on foot.

Tip: Register early. Participation is limited. Break in your hiking shoes beforehand. Pack layers for changeable autumn weather.

🎉Jeju Halloween Festival

Dates vary yearly Tapdong area, Jeju City
Free festival

A lively street party with costume contests, themed parades, and music. The event has grown in scale, attracting a young crowd. Bars and cafes in the area often have special promotions. The atmosphere is playful and energetic. It shows a different side of Jeju nightlife.

Tip: Want to join the costume contest? Register upon arrival. The main parade route along the waterfront is the best place to watch.

🎭Jeju Horse Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeju Racecourse
cultural

This event celebrates Jeju's native horse breed, the Jeju pony. It features horse shows, pony rides for children, traditional equestrian games, and parades. The festival is family-focused. It provides insight into the historical importance of horses on Jeju.

Tip: Sunscreen and hats are recommended. Much of the event is outdoors with limited shade. Check the schedule for the mounted archery demonstration.

🙏Jeju Traditional Ritual for Good Harvest

Dates vary yearly Various coastal villages
Free religious

A solemn village ritual performed by local shamans to give thanks and pray for a good harvest and safe seas. The ceremony involves offerings, music, and specific chants. It is an authentic glimpse into Jeju's indigenous spiritual practices. It is not staged for tourists.

Tip: Observe quietly and respectfully from a distance. Photography may be restricted during certain sacred parts of the ceremony.

November

🎭Jeju Stone Culture Festival

Dates vary yearly Jeju Stone Park
cultural

This event explores Jeju's volcanic basalt stone culture through stone carving demonstrations, traditional games using stones, and exhibitions of dol hareubang statues. It is educational and hands on. Visitors get to know a fundamental aspect of Jeju's material heritage.

Tip: Try the stone stacking workshop. It is meditative. The park is large. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

🍽️Jeju Winter Café Tour Festival

Dates vary yearly Participating cafes island-wide
food

A curated event where participating cafes across Jeju offer special menus, discounts, or workshops. A passport-style booklet guides visitors to different venues. It is good for café hoppers and those looking for indoor activities as the weather cools.

Tip: Purchase the festival passport for the best deals. Plan a route that clusters cafes in one area, like Aewol or Seogwipo, to minimize travel.

December

🛒Jeju Christmas Market

Dates vary yearly City Hall Plaza, Jeju City
Free market

A seasonal market with stalls selling handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and warm drinks and snacks. It often has a large Christmas tree and photo spots. The mood is festive and family-friendly. Visitors find unique gifts and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Tip: Visit in the evening. The lights are most effective then. Try the hot mulled wine or cider sold at the food stalls to stay warm.

🎵Jeju Countdown Concert

Dates vary yearly City Hall Plaza, Jeju City
Free music

An outdoor concert held on New Year's Eve featuring popular Korean singers and bands. It draws a large crowd for a countdown to midnight with fireworks. The atmosphere is celebratory and energetic. It is a major year-end event on Jeju.

Tip: Arrive several hours early. Secure a spot with a good view. Dress very warmly. Waiting outdoors in winter can be cold.

Tips for Attending Events

Practical advice to help you get the most out of local events and festivals.

1

Jeju weather can change quickly, on the coast or at higher elevations. For outdoor events, always pack a light waterproof layer and sun protection.

2

Public transport to event venues can be limited, for festivals in rural areas. Renting a car provides the most flexibility. Book it well in advance during peak seasons.

3

For popular festivals like the Fire Festival or major concerts, expect large crowds. Arriving early is essential for parking, a good viewing spot, or accessing popular food stalls.

4

Many events in Jeju are family-oriented and conclude by early evening. For nightlife, Jeju City's Tapdong area has bars and cafes that stay open later.

5

If your visit coincides with rain, shift your plans to indoor events like the film festival, a museum visit, or the café tour festival.

Event Categories

Browse events by type to find what interests you.

🎉
festival

Major public celebrations, often with parades, performances, and widespread community participation.

🎭
cultural

Events focused on traditional arts, heritage, film, theater, and local customs.

⚽
sports

Organized athletic competitions, races, and participatory sporting events.

🛒
market

Seasonal gatherings of vendors selling local food, crafts, and products, often outdoors.

🙏
religious

Observances, rituals, and festivals rooted in spiritual or shamanistic traditions.

🎵
music

Concerts, music festivals, and performances spanning various genres.

🍽️
food

Culinary events centered on local specialties, tasting, and harvest celebrations.

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