Korea Festivals

Jeonju Makgeolli Festival

Oct 23 – Oct 24, 2026 · Jeollabuk-do

Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
Jeonju Makgeolli Festival. Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

Overview

Held in the cultural city of Jeonju, the '2026 Jeonju Makgeolli Festival' is a signature regional festival that promotes Jeonju's unique makgeolli and food culture, bringing citizens and tourists together to share the flavors and warmth of Jeonju. In addition to tastings and sales of makgeolli produced in Jeonju, the Samcheon-dong Makgeolli Alley Merchants Association and local restaurants will take part, presenting a variety of side dishes that pair well with makgeolli along with Jeonju's distinctive local food. The festival will also feature a range of cultural performances that showcase the charm of traditional culture, including Gijeop Nori, invited performances, and a retro DJ party, as well as hands-on events open to everyone, such as Citizens' Karaoke and the Makgeolli Challenge. In particular, by bringing together local breweries, restaurants, and alley merchants in one festival, the event aims to showcase the excellence of Jeonju makgeolli and add vitality to the local economy. Under the slogan 'Get Drunk on Jeonju Makgeolli Under the Autumn Moonlight!', Jeonju's flavors and charm, together with lively performances and participatory programs, come together to give both citizens and tourists a special memory of an autumn night.

Why go

This signature Jeonju festival celebrates the city's famous makgeolli (rice wine) and local food culture, bringing together breweries, the Samcheon-dong Makgeolli Alley merchants, and area restaurants. Expect tastings and sales of Jeonju-brewed makgeolli paired with local anju (side dishes), plus cultural performances such as Gijeop Nori, invited acts, and a retro DJ party. Participatory programs like Citizens' Karaoke and the Makgeolli Challenge make it an interactive evening event for both locals and visitors.

Getting there from Seoul

Take a KTX or ITX train from Seoul Station, Yongsan, or Suseo to Jeonju Station, with most services routed via Iksan. From Jeonju Station, a taxi or local bus will get you to the Hyoja-dong/Samcheon-dong area in Wansan-gu where the festival is held. Alternatively, express or intercity buses run from Seoul's Central City or Gangnam terminals to Jeonju Bus Terminal, which is also a short taxi ride from the venue.

Tips

  • This is an evening-focused festival built around moonlit drinking and performances, so plan to arrive in the late afternoon or evening.
  • Late October evenings in Jeonju can be cool, so bring a jacket if you're out for the performances and night market stalls.
  • Pair your makgeolli with anju from the Samcheon-dong Makgeolli Alley vendors and nearby restaurants for the full local experience.

Best for: food lovers, nightlife, culture enthusiasts, groups.

  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
  • Jeonju Makgeolli Festival
    Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

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Festivals: Jeollabuk-do

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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site