Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe)

When: May, tied to Buddha’s Birthday so the exact date moves each year according to the lunar calendar.

Where: Central Seoul, South Korea - parade routes and temple events span Jongno, Insadong and major city temples.

Cost: Free to watch in public areas; paid lanterns, guided activities and workshops are common.

Don’t miss: The evening lantern parade and the illuminated street displays that transform the city centre into a river of light.

The Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe) is a Korean Buddhist celebration for Buddha’s Birthday that has been practised in various forms for centuries and is recognised on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage for its ritual and communal value. In modern Seoul the event blends traditional temple ceremonies with large-scale public parades, workshops and lantern exhibitions.

Atmospherically it alternates between solemn temple rites and joyful street spectacle: paper and fabric lanterns (from small hand-held lotus lamps to giant floats), drumming and masked performances, community lantern-making sessions, and processions through historic neighbourhoods such as Jongno and Insadong, often centered on temples like Jogyesa Temple.

The festival takes place in May around Buddha’s Birthday, which in Korea falls on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month; the Gregorian date therefore varies each year. Organisers typically schedule the main public parade and night-time events on the weekend closest to the holiday, with temple services and exhibitions in the days around it.

Expect a build-up of daytime lantern displays, workshops and cultural programmes, with the parade and illuminated spectacles concentrated in the evening hours when the lanterns are most impressive.

The nearest international gateway is Incheon International Airport serving Seoul; take the AREX train (or airport limousine bus) to central Seoul then transfer by subway or taxi to Jongno/Insadong where most events are concentrated. Arrive at least a day early to secure accommodation and allow time for any pre-festival workshops, and book hotels and popular guided activities well in advance.

• Respect temple etiquette: dress modestly, speak quietly during services and follow signs or staff directions inside temples such as Jogyesa Temple.
• Expect big crowds on parade night; use public transport but be prepared for packed trains and road closures, and plan meeting points if travelling in a group.
• Bring a compact umbrella or light rain jacket - May weather is mild but can be showery - and wear comfortable shoes for standing and walking.
• Cash is handy for street food, small purchases and some temple offerings; some market stalls may not accept cards.
• If you want to join lantern-making workshops or guided tours, book these ahead as they fill up quickly during the festival period.
• Be mindful when photographing rituals and people; avoid intrusive flash during ceremonies and ask permission before close-up portrait shots.