2025 Jarasum Flower Festa Brings Vibrant Blooms to South Korea’s Spring

GAPYEONG, South Korea — As spring unfolds across South Korea, the 2025 Jarasum Flower Festa has transformed Jarasum Island in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, into a kaleidoscope of color. Running from May 24 to June 15, this beloved flower festival, held biannually in spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October), invites visitors to immerse themselves in sprawling flower gardens, cultural performances, and local flavors. Set against the serene backdrop of the Bukhan River, the event captures the essence of Korea’s natural beauty and communal spirit, making it a must-visit for travelers and locals alike.

A Floral Paradise

Jarasum Flower Festa, often dubbed the “Colorful Garden,” turns the island into a living canvas each season. This spring, the gardens are bursting with vibrant blooms like poppies, blue rape flowers, canola, and skyflowers (a whimsical Korean term for sunflowers), creating a dreamy spring flower garden that stretches across themed sections. Come autumn, the palette shifts to zinnias, chrysanthemums, and pink muhly grass, crafting a warm, golden landscape that’s equally enchanting.

The festival’s main program, the Flower Garden Healing Course, guides visitors through meticulously designed gardens like the Garden of Friendship, Rainbow Garden, and various themed and species-specific plots. These spaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering photo ops at every turn—whether it’s a field of fiery poppies or a sea of golden canola swaying in the breeze. Posts on X have been buzzing with visitors sharing snaps of the Rainbow Garden, with many calling it “a slice of heaven” for its vibrant, multicolored blooms.

More Than Just Flowers
Beyond the gardens, Jarasum Flower Festa offers a rich lineup of activities that embody Korea’s jeong—the spirit of shared warmth and connection. The Side Programs include busking and band performances that fill the air with music, alongside exhibitions of chrysanthemums and wildflowers (a highlight of the autumn edition). For hands-on fun, the Consumer Participation Programs let visitors dive into flower-themed experiences like crafting floral crowns or renting traditional hanbok and flower-inspired costumes to wear while exploring the gardens—a hit with families and couples alike.

Local culture shines through at the festival’s market stalls, where regional agricultural products and specialty foods are on offer. Expect to find Gapyeong’s famous pine nut makgeolli, fresh produce like corn and sweet potatoes, and street food favorites such as tteokbokki and hotteok, with most items averaging 300–500 calories per serving. These stalls not only highlight the area’s agricultural heritage but also give visitors a chance to connect with local vendors, many of whom share stories of their craft with a smile.

A Celebration of Nature and Community

Jarasum Island, a 15-minute drive from Gapyeong Station, has long been a cultural hub, known for hosting the Jarasum Jazz Festival since 2004. The Flower Festa, launched later, builds on that legacy by celebrating the region’s natural splendor and fostering a sense of togetherness. The festival’s setting on an island surrounded by the Bukhan River adds a tranquil charm, with the nearby Cheongpyeong Lake and Nami Island offering additional scenic detours for visitors.

This year’s spring event, which wrapped up on June 15, drew thousands of attendees despite overlapping with the tail end of the Jeju Food & Wine Festival. Organizers have teased that the upcoming autumn edition (September–October) will feature even more interactive programs, including flower-pressing workshops and a night market. “Jarasum Flower Festa is about more than just flowers—it’s about creating memories and connecting with nature and each other,” a festival spokesperson shared.

Plan Your Visit

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Location: 60 Jarasum-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

- Getting There: From Seoul, take the ITX train to Gapyeong Station (about 1 hour), then a 15-minute taxi ride to Jarasum Island.

- Tickets: Entry is typically free, though some activities like costume rentals (around 10,000 KRW) may have a small fee.

- Best Time to Visit: Early June for peak blooms; arrive in the morning to avoid crowds.

- Nearby Attractions: Explore Nami Island (a 20-minute drive) or hike at Myeongjisan Mountain for panoramic view.

Jarasum Flower Festa is a vibrant celebration of Korea’s seasons, blending natural beauty with cultural experiences. Whether you’re weaving a floral crown, snapping photos in a field of poppies, or sipping pine nut makgeolli with new friends, the festival offers a perfect slice of springtime joy. Mark your calendar for the autumn edition—you won’t want to miss the pink muhly magic.

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