This summer, South Korea's representative summer festival will kick off in Jangheung, South Jeolla Province. Jangheung County announced on July 14 that the 19th Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival will take place from July 25 to August 2 at the Tanjin River waterfront park, the cypress forest woodland, and the Papillon ZIP area. This year's festival, themed 'Water and Forest - Rest,' aims to welcome visitors with upgraded programs.
The festival will officially begin with the 'Colorful Water Splash Parade' at 1 p.m. on July 25. Starting from the Jangheung Community Center, the parade will travel along Central Road to the festival site. This year's parade features a blend of storytelling and traditional cultures from around the world, showcasing African percussion beats, brass band performances, Hawaiian dance, large avatar puppets, and dynamic color zones, providing exotic sights throughout the streets. At the special stage in front of the Jangheung County Office, an outdoor water party will take place with DJs and dance teams.
The festival's signature event, the 'World's Largest Water Fight,' will unfold daily at 2 p.m. across the festival grounds. This year, the water fight area has been significantly expanded, allowing participants to enjoy the festivities in a larger space. Water cannons and water gun battles will continue for 60 minutes on weekdays and 120 minutes on weekends. Notably, this year will see an increase in programs where spectators can participate directly, including team competitions and large volleyball matches.
The 'Golden Fish (Giant Eel) Catching' event, which allows participants to experience the Tanjin River firsthand, will take place daily at 3 p.m. from July 25 to August 1. Participants can dive into the river to catch freshwater fish such as eels, catfish, and carp. Additionally, various water leisure activities, including wooden boat rides and thrilling banana and peanut boats, will be available for visitors. A large water slide and a healing waterfall area will also be set up for family-friendly experiences.
Nighttime attractions and activities have also been expanded. The 'Water Light ON Zone,' illuminated with scenic lighting, along with the 'Starlight Moonlight Youth Zone' and the nighttime food market 'Jangheung Water Light Night Market,' will create a vibrant atmosphere for summer nights.
The festival will feature a notable lineup of performances. On the afternoon of July 31, the 'Jangheung Rock Festival' will showcase top domestic rock bands, including Daybreak, FT Island, Kim Kyung-ho Band, Crack Shot, and Eve. Following that, an EDM party featuring DJ Hyebin, Cheetah, Lee Ha-neul & Jung Jae-yong, and the Bitgoeul Dancers will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on August 1.
A Jangheung County official stated, 'This year's water festival has been thoroughly prepared to offer both healing and fun,' urging many to participate.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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