The 2026 National Chrysanthemum Festival, a hallmark of autumn in Hampyeong, will kick off on October 23. This year’s theme is 'Chrysanthemum Garden of Myth,' featuring large chrysanthemum sculptures, exquisite bonsai displays, and various performance and experience programs for visitors.
Hampyeong County announced that the festival will take place at Hampyeong Expo Park from October 23 to November 8, spanning 17 days.
The festival grounds will be adorned with sculptures and themed pathways inspired by mythical landscapes, such as 'Hill of Myths,' 'Talking Tree,' and 'Goddess of Water.' The park will be transformed into a narrative space, differentiating this year’s exhibition from previous ones.
An exhibition showcasing chrysanthemum cultivation techniques will also be featured. During the festival, five chrysanthemum bonsai exhibition halls will display 366 premium bonsai and 1,800 other chrysanthemum works.
Performance programs will run throughout the festival. The opening ceremony will feature singers Seongri and Kim Jeong-woo, while the closing ceremony will include performances by Na Tae-joo and Jin Yi-rang.
The Autumn Chrysanthemum Concert will showcase 'The Vocal' group, consisting of KCM, Go Yu-jin, and The One, along with Kim Ki-tae, Lee Yong, and the Lee Young-ha Band, providing entertainment for autumn nights.
Cultural performances, including brass band street shows and traditional Korean dance, will also take place throughout the festival grounds.
Experience programs for families will be available, allowing visitors to dress as the goddess of chrysanthemum tales, pick bananas, create chrysanthemum crafts, and sample chrysanthemum tea.
In preparation for the festival, Hampyeong County is installing stages, operational booths, and chrysanthemum sculptures, as well as improving the event environment.
As a result, access to Hampyeong Expo Park will be restricted from October 17 to 22 for six days. After the festival, access will also be limited from November 9 to 11 for the removal of temporary facilities and park maintenance.
The county explained that access restrictions are necessary due to the concentration of material removal and heavy equipment movement during this period to prevent safety accidents.
Lee Nam-o, the mayor of Hampyeong County, stated, “This year’s Chrysanthemum Festival features a differentiated exhibition and a variety of performances and experience programs themed around the Chrysanthemum Garden of Myth. We hope for much interest and many visitors. We also ask for understanding and cooperation regarding the access restrictions to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for enjoying the festival.”
The 2026 National Chrysanthemum Festival will run from October 23 to November 8 at Hampyeong Expo Park. Hampyeong County plans to complete facility installations and safety inspections before welcoming visitors.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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