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What Is the Changgyeonggung Night Banquet?
During the Joseon dynasty, Crown Prince Hyomyeong hosted lavish palace banquets to honor his father, King Sunjo — a gesture of deep filial devotion that became legendary in Korean history. The Changgyeonggung Night Banquet (창경궁 야연) brings that tradition back to life as an immersive evening experience open to the public.
In 2026, the event runs across two sessions — May 7–17 and September 24–October 4 — for a total of 20 evenings at the Munjeong-jeon Hall area inside Changgyeonggung Palace. Participants step into the roles of Joseon-era court officials and noble ladies, dressing in full royal attire to enjoy traditional performances, palace sweets, and hands-on cultural activities with their families.
2026 Schedule at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| First Session | May 7 (Thu) – May 17 (Sun), 2026 |
| Second Session | September 24 (Thu) – October 4 (Sun), 2026 |
| Total Evenings | 20 |
| Hours | 17:00 – 20:30 |
| Venue | Munjeong-jeon Hall area, Changgyeonggung Palace |
| Address | 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 185, 와룡동) |
The spring session overlaps with Parents’ Day week, and the autumn session falls during the Chuseok holiday period — both ideal windows for a memorable family outing through the palace grounds after dark.
Programs & Participation Options
The Night Banquet offers three tiers of participation, each with a different level of involvement.
Paid Experience (Full Immersion)
Step into the shoes of a Joseon court official or noble lady for the evening. This ticket includes:
- Live royal banquet performance viewing
- Full court attire fitting and traditional makeup
- Tasting of gungjung byeonggwa (royal palace confections)
- Filial piety (孝) rituals and activities
- Individual and family portrait sessions
Accompanying Family Members
Family members of paid ticket holders join the banquet alongside them and can take part in:
- Live royal banquet performance viewing
- Palace confection tasting
- Letter-writing station (write a letter to your parents)
- Filial piety (孝) activities
- Family photo and video sessions
Walk-In Spectators (Free)
No reservation needed. Show up and enjoy the atmosphere:
- Watch the royal banquet reenactment (first-come, first-served seating — limited capacity)
- Access select filial piety activities and photo zones
Admission & Pricing
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Paid Experience | Ticketed (see official website for current pricing) |
| Accompanying Family | Included with paid ticket holder |
| Walk-In Spectators | Free (banquet viewing + select activities) |
For detailed pricing and ticket reservations, visit the official website.
Getting There
Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 185, 와룡동)
Changgyeonggung Palace sits in central Seoul’s Jongno-gu district, well connected by public transit. For detailed directions by subway and bus, check the official website.
- Inquiries: 1522-2295
Tips for Visitors
- Book early. Paid experience slots are limited and tend to sell out. Reserve through the official website as soon as tickets open.
- Arrive early for free viewing. Walk-in spectator seating is first-come, first-served, so plan to get there before the 17:00 start.
- It’s an evening event. The program runs 17:00–20:30. Time your arrival accordingly and dress for cooler evening temperatures.
- Bring the whole family. The filial piety theme makes this especially meaningful as a multigenerational outing — grandparents, parents, and kids alike.
- No costume prep needed. Paid participants receive full court attire and traditional makeup on-site, so just show up as you are.
Organizers
| Role | Organization |
|---|---|
| Host | Korea Heritage Service, Royal Palaces and Tombs Center (국가유산청 궁능유적본부) |
| Operated by | Korea Heritage Promotion Institute (국가유산진흥원) |
| Contact | 1522-2295 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 Changgyeonggung Night Banquet take place?
The first session runs May 7–17, 2026, and the second session runs September 24–October 4, 2026 — 20 evenings total. Hours are 17:00 to 20:30.
How much does the Changgyeonggung Night Banquet cost?
Walk-in spectators can watch for free, while the full hands-on experience requires a paid ticket. Check the official website for current pricing and reservations.
What activities are available at the Night Banquet?
Paid participants dress in Joseon court attire with full makeup, sample royal confections, join filial piety rituals, and pose for professional photos. Accompanying family members share in the sweets, write letters to parents, and take group photos. Walk-in visitors can watch the banquet reenactment and use the photo zones for free.
Where is the Changgyeonggung Night Banquet held?
The event takes place at the Munjeong-jeon Hall area inside Changgyeonggung Palace, located at 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 185, 와룡동).
Can families participate together?
Absolutely. The program is designed for families. Each paid ticket holder can bring family members who join the banquet viewing, taste palace sweets, write letters to parents, and take family photos and videos together.
Can I attend without a reservation?
Yes. Walk-in spectators can watch the royal banquet reenactment and enjoy select activities and photo zones for free. Seating is first-come, first-served and limited, so arriving early is recommended.