Seven words, not just a time of heat.
The Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival held in Jeollanam-do is a vibrant and exciting event that gathers people of all ages for a memorable experience. Located south-south of Seoul, in Jeongnamjin, Jangheung-si, the festival is a highlight of the summer season in Korea. Celebrating its 18th anniversary this year, the festival takes place from July 26 to August 3 along the Jangheung Tamjin River and the Pyeonbaek Forest Woodland.
Under the slogan “Jangheung is full of joy now!” this year’s water festival aims to bring together people from around the world and across generations. The festivities kick off with the Salsu Battle Street Parade on the opening day, featuring an exhilarating water performance by local residents, tourists, and global performance teams. The parade, led by the Thai Songkran performance team and the African percussion performance team Anja Po, sets the stage for an exciting and fun-filled festival.
One of the festival’s main attractions is the largest water fight on the ground, where participants can engage in a spirited battle with water cannons, water balloons, and water guns. This daily event, held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., promises a thrilling experience for all attendees. Children can also enjoy a designated water playground with various facilities such as an underwater soccer field, a maze, a slide, and a swimming pool.
For those looking to cool off during the hot summer days, the festival offers underwater rides like the Wooden Boat, Banana Boat, and Peanut Boat for a refreshing experience on the Tamjin River. As the day turns into night, the festival continues with the Jangheung Rock Festival, featuring performances by renowned Korean rock bands like Yoon Do-hyun Band, Yuk Joong-wan Band, Novrain, and Crack Shot.
On August 1 and 2, festival-goers can attend an energetic EDM party called “Water Beat,” where top DJs and performers will entertain the crowd from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Other exciting stage programs include the Jeongnamjin River Music Festival, the Jangheung POP Concert, a residents’ autonomy competition, and a celebratory performance by the National Dance Company.
Visitors can also indulge in Jangheung’s local specialties at the festival hall, where the three-piece Festa combines beef, clams, and mushrooms into delicious dishes. Additionally, the Slush Festa offers refreshing slushies made from Jangheung specialties, enhancing the festive atmosphere with unique flavors.
Overall, the Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival promises to create lasting memories for both tourists and locals alike, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate nine days of water-filled fun and excitement.