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  • Seoul Festivals in October 2026: 3 Autumn Events to Explore

    Seoul Festivals in October 2026: 3 Autumn Events to Explore

    Hi, I’m Choi, a travel writer sharing local food, art, and culture in Korea.

    Visiting Seoul in October? These three Seoul autumn festivals offer light art at Nodeul Island (노들섬), silver grass at Haneul Park (하늘공원), and evening cultural activities in Jeongdong (정동).

    Illustrated cover for three Seoul autumn festivals in October 2026
    Three autumn festivals to explore in Seoul in October 2026. Illustration, not an event photograph.

    I haven’t attended these events yet, so this short guide brings together officially announced dates, locations, and transport information to help you plan your visit.

    Last updated: October 2, 2026.

    1. Seoul Light Hangang Bitseom Festival (서울라이트 한강 빛섬축제)

    Illustrated Seoul Light Hangang Bitseom Festival card with October 2–11, 2026 dates and Nodeul Island location
    Seoul Light Hangang Bitseom Festival (서울라이트 한강 빛섬축제) at Nodeul Island (노들섬). Illustration, not an event photograph.
    • Dates: October 2–11, 2026
    • Hours: 6:30–10:30 p.m.
    • Location: Nodeul Island (노들섬), Yongsan-gu

    The Seoul Light Hangang Bitseom Festival brings laser installations and media art to Nodeul Island. Set beside the Han River, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for things to do in Seoul at night.

    Choose this event if you enjoy contemporary art and illuminated installations. Bring a light jacket for the outdoor areas.

    Getting there: Take Subway Line 9 to Nodeul Station (노들역), then walk across Hangang Bridge to the island.

    📍 View Nodeul Island on Google Maps

    Official festival information

    2. Seoul Silver Grass Festival (서울억새축제)

    Illustrated Seoul Silver Grass Festival card with October 17–23, 2026 dates and Haneul Park location
    Seoul Silver Grass Festival (서울억새축제) at Haneul Park (하늘공원). Illustration, not an event photograph.
    • Dates: October 17–23, 2026
    • Location: Haneul Park (하늘공원), within World Cup Park, Mapo-gu

    The Seoul Silver Grass Festival celebrates autumn with silver grass scenery and seasonal activities at Haneul Park.

    This is a good choice for travelers who enjoy nature, walking, and photography. Allow time for the uphill approach and wear comfortable shoes. The appearance of the grass depends on weather and seasonal conditions.

    Getting there: Take Subway Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station (월드컵경기장역), then walk toward World Cup Park and follow signs to Haneul Park.

    📍 View Haneul Park on Google Maps

    Official festival information

    3. Jeongdong Culture Night (정동야행)

    Illustrated Jeongdong Culture Night card with October 29–31, 2026 dates and the Deoksugung area location
    Jeongdong Culture Night (정동야행) around Jeongdong-gil (정동길) and Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁). Illustration, not an event photograph.
    • Dates listed by Seoul City: October 29–31, 2026
    • Location: Jeongdong-gil (정동길) and the area around Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)

    Jeongdong Culture Night combines evening access to participating historic and cultural sites with performances and activities around the neighborhood.

    Choose this event if you enjoy Korean history, architecture, and older streets. You can explore central Seoul during the day before heading to the festival area in the evening.

    Check the final program for participating venues, opening hours, and reservations. Not every nearby attraction will necessarily be open each evening.

    Getting there: City Hall Station (시청역), Subway Lines 1 and 2.

    📍 View Jeongdong-gil on Google Maps

    Official event website

    Before You Visit These Seoul Autumn Festivals

    Choose Nodeul Island for light art, Haneul Park for autumn scenery, or Jeongdong for history and culture.

    Outdoor programs may change because of weather. Before visiting, check official announcements for the latest schedule, admission details, and activities requiring advance booking.

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