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▶ Dates: October 29 (Wed) – November 02 (Sun), 2025
▶ Location: Juwangsan Tourist Complex, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
▶ Highlights: Apple picking, tastings, cooking classes, apple parade, farm playgrounds
▶ Official Website: Visit Korea
The Cheongsong Apple Festival is South Korea’s most delicious harvest celebration, dedicated to the country’s most premium mountain-grown apples. Held every fall in the pristine region of Cheongsong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, this family-friendly festival highlights the region’s proud agricultural traditions and the sweet, crunchy taste of freshly picked apples. Surrounded by scenic mountains and crisp autumn air, visitors gather in the Juwangsan Tourist Complex to experience apple farming first-hand, meet local producers, and enjoy cultural performances. Whether you're a fruit lover, foodie, or family traveler, this is the perfect countryside escape during Korea’s fall foliage season.
Apple Picking, Tasting & Hands-On Fun
The festival's most anticipated activity is apple picking, where visitors are guided to local orchards to harvest their own Cheongsong apples—known for their vibrant color, high sugar content, and satisfying crunch. Guests receive baskets and gloves and are taught how to gently pick apples directly from the trees. Afterward, visitors can taste and compare apple varieties, enjoy apple jams and juices, and even make their own apple pie or tarts in baking workshops. For adventurous palates, apple kimchi and apple-infused pork dishes are a must-try. There are apple slicing contests, speed peeling games, and photo zones with giant apple sculptures. Children can join special programs such as “Little Farmer School” and eco-crafts using recycled apple boxes. It’s a rare chance to see where food comes from and build connection with Korea’s rural communities—all while snacking on fresh fruit under clear blue skies.
Local Culture, Markets & Family Zones
Beyond apples, the Cheongsong Apple Festival is a vibrant showcase of regional identity and hospitality. The outdoor Cheongsong Specialty Market offers everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, ceramics, teas, and dried persimmons. Traditional music and dance performances fill the main stage each day, and there’s even a costumed “Apple Parade” through the festival grounds. Cooking shows by local chefs demonstrate how to use apples in Korean and fusion recipes. Kids’ zones include apple-themed rides, a hay bale maze, and a petting zoo. For adults, apple makgeolli (rice wine) tastings and agricultural exhibitions provide a deeper understanding of the region’s sustainable farming efforts. You can also enjoy scenic shuttle tours to nearby Juwangsan National Park for hiking and autumn leaf viewing. The welcoming locals, natural beauty, and hands-on joy of the event make it more than a food fair—it’s a full countryside retreat for all ages.
Summary & Travel Tips
The Cheongsong Apple Festival combines delicious food, rural experiences, and stunning fall scenery into one unforgettable event. Held every October, it’s a great excuse to escape the city and embrace Korea’s mountain charm. To get there, take a train or express bus to Andong or Yeongju, then a local bus or rental car to Cheongsong. Most programs are free or low-cost, and local guesthouses offer affordable stays. Dress for orchard walking—think sneakers, a sun hat, and light gloves. Bring extra cash for food and souvenirs, and don’t forget your camera! For schedules and workshop registration, visit the official festival site. Whether you're harvesting apples or making pies, you’ll leave with a smile and a full bag of Korea’s best fruit.