Between spring and summer, a unique festival unfolds in Gangneung. The Gangneung Danoje Festival, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is one of Korea’s most iconic traditional festivals. Spanning over a thousand years, it is the nation’s oldest seasonal folk festival—an enduring tradition still upheld by local residents. Centered around the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this eight-day event offers an immersive Korean experience: from sacred rituals honoring deities to round-the-clock performances, hands-on cultural activities, and Korea’s largest traditional marketplace. This year’s festival is especially vibrant, marking the 20th anniversary of its UNESCO inscription.
The festivities begin with Gillori, a lively street parade prepared by residents from all over Gangneung. The parade escorts the city’s guardian deity to the Dano altar, expressing wishes for blessings and peace. As it winds through the city center, 21 villages come alive through performances that reflect their unique stories and characters. Accompanied by rhythmic beats of traditional drums and janggu (hourglass-shaped drums), your shoulders move to the rhythm, a smile spreads across your face, and you become part of the celebration.
The Danoje Festival highlights Gangneung’s distinctive folk arts, featuring traditional performances such as Gangneung Nongak (Farmers’ Performance of Gangneung), the Gwanno Mask Drama, Hapyeong Dapgyo Nori (Bridge-stepping Game), and Haksan Odokttegi (Farmers’ Song). Among these, the Gwanno Mask Drama, which satirizes the noble class of the Joseon Dynasty, stands out, as it is Korea’s only silent mask performance and a rare cultural heritage found exclusively in Gangneung. Through expressive gestures and dance, masked actors portray emotions without words, delivering a dynamic and engaging performance.
At the Gangneung Danoje Festival, daily performances showcase the vibrancy of traditional Korean culture. Celebrated acts from across the country—including Yecheon Cheongdan Noreum (Mimed Mask Dance Drama of Yecheon), Hongseong Gyeolseong Nongyo (Farmers’ Song of Gyeolseong, Hongseong), Miryang Baekjung Nori (Baekjung Festival of Miryang), and Jindo Dasiraegi (Dasiraegi Play of Jindo)—converge on a single stage. The festival also features traditional arts from around the world, with performances by artists from Japan, Latvia, Botswana, and Mongolia. Infusing the scene with fresh energy are fusion gugak (traditional Korean music), dynamic dance performances, and multimedia shows led by emerging young artists. As new performances unfold each day, the festival becomes a celebration where tradition meets modernity and local culture connects with the world.
Throughout the festival grounds, hands-on experiences are open to all. Try on a traditional hanbok, soar on the giant swing to wish for a year of good fortune, rinse away bad luck with water infused with changpo (sweet iris leaves), and create your own Dano fan decorated with traditional patterns. Engage all five senses as you explore the traditions of Dano through fun and meaningful activities. On-site registration is available, but popular programs may fill up quickly, so visiting early is highly recommended.
“Dano sinju” a traditional liquor brewed from rice collected by Gangneung locals, is used in sacred rituals. “Surichwi tteok,” a chewy rice cake with the herb’s subtle bitter aroma, is another Dano delicacy. These traditional treats, symbolizing health, longevity, and happiness, are available for free tasting during the festival, so don’t miss the chance to try them.
When night falls, the Gangneung Danoje Festival takes on a different charm. Beneath the glow of dazzling lights, energetic stage performances and bustling street festivities fill the air with celebration. The night culminates in a spectacular fireworks display above Gangneung’s skyline. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, explore the vibrant Dano Market, share delicious food, and create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the legacy of a thousand-year-old tradition at one of Korea’s most iconic cultural events.
2025 Gangneung Danoje Festival
Period : May 27 – June 3, 2025
Venue : Dano Market area along Namdaecheon Stream, Gangneung
