In 2023, I had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in one of South Korea’s most enchanting cultural events: the Lotus Lantern Festival. As one of 20 foreigners selected to join the iconic parade, I experienced firsthand the magic and vibrancy of this celebration. From the glow of countless lanterns to the shared joy of participants and spectators, the festival left an indelible mark on my heart. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the history, highlights, and practical tips for enjoying the Lotus Lantern Festival, so you can add this unforgettable event to your South Korea travel bucket list.
What Is the Lotus Lantern Festival?
The Lotus Lantern Festival (燃燈會), or Yeondeunghoe (연등회 in Korean) is a spectacular annual celebration held to honor Buddha’s birthday. The tradition dates back over 1,000 years to the Silla Dynasty and has since become one of the most iconic cultural festivals in Korea. Buddha’s birthday, observed on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month, is a national holiday in South Korea and a deeply spiritual occasion for Buddhists.
The lotus flower holds profound symbolism in Buddhism, representing purity, enlightenment, and compassion. During the festival, lanterns in the shape of lotus flowers illuminate streets, temples, and hearts, symbolizing the light of wisdom dispelling the darkness of ignorance.
Highlights of the Festival
The Lotus Lantern Festival is a multi-day event filled with activities that captivate people of all ages. Here are the highlights you can look forward to:
Lantern-Making Workshops
Get hands-on and create your own lotus lantern! Workshops are held at temples like Jogyesa and Bongeunsa, where volunteers guide you through the crafting process. It’s a beautiful way to connect with the festival’s spirit and take home a piece of its magic.
The Grand Parade
The heart of the festival is the lantern parade, where thousands of participants carry glowing lanterns through the streets of Seoul. The parade starts near Dongguk University and makes its way to Jogyesa Temple, filling the city with vibrant colors and an electric atmosphere.
Traditional Performances and Booths
Cultural booths line the streets, offering traditional Korean games, crafts, and delicious vegetarian snacks. Performances of traditional music and dance add to the lively ambiance.
Lighting the Grand Lanterns
At the end of the parade, a massive lantern in the shape of a lotus flower is lit near Jogyesa Temple. It’s a breathtaking moment that symbolizes peace and harmony.
My Personal Experience in the Parade
Being part of the 2023 Lotus Lantern Festival parade was nothing short of magical. As one of 20 foreigners selected by Funday Korea, I felt an immense sense of privilege and excitement. The preparation involved meeting fellow participants, trying on traditional costumes, and learning about the cultural significance of our roles in the parade. We attended festivities in a big stadium before the parade where participating groups from other countries were introduced, we sang and danced together, and listened to monks sharing celebratory speeches and prayers. Walking through the streets of Seoul, surrounded by glowing lanterns and smiling spectators, was a moment of pure joy and connection. The cheers and applause from the crowd made me feel like part of something much bigger—a community united by light and hope.
Though I definitely felt for the volunteering ladies taking care of us as our group did a horrible job keeping our walking formation clean which especially stressed them out when we passed the TV cameras filming the parade.^^
How to Experience the Lotus Lantern Festival
When and Where
The festival usually takes place in May, around Buddha’s birthday. While the main events occur in Seoul, you can also find celebrations in other cities like Busan and Gyeongju. Key locations include Jogyesa Temple, Bongeunsa Temple, and the streets around Dongguk University.
Must-Do Activities
- Attend the Parade: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along Jongno Street.
- Make Your Own Lantern: Join a workshop to create a lantern you can carry during the parade.
- Explore the Booths: Try traditional crafts and vegetarian Korean dishes.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
- Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially for the parade.
- Dress Comfortably: You’ll be walking and standing a lot, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay Hydrated: May can be warm in Korea, so bring water. Trust me. I was sweating buckets during the day back then…
Cultural Etiquette and Respect
While the festival is open to everyone, it’s rooted in Buddhist traditions. Here are a few tips to show respect:
- Refrain from loud conversations during temple ceremonies.
- Dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit temples.
- Follow the guidance of event volunteers.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Lotus Lantern Festival is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and hope. Whether you’re crafting your own lantern, cheering at the parade, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, the festival offers a unique glimpse into Korean culture. For me, participating in the parade was a transformative experience—a reminder of the beauty of shared traditions and the power of light to bring people together.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in spring/summer, make sure the Lotus Lantern Festival is on your itinerary. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable experience, this festival has something for everyone. Have you attended the Lotus Lantern Festival in Korea or are you planning to?
Interested to learn more about Korean culture? Check out my blog posts about Dancheong, Seollal, Korean Love Days, and Traditional Children’s Games as seen on Squid Game.
Are you traveling to South Korea?
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