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What Is the Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Festival?
Every spring, the banks of the Nakdong River in Changnyeong explode into a sea of golden yellow. The Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Festival (창녕낙동강유채축제) celebrates this spectacle across 110 hectares — roughly 270 acres — of canola flowers, making it the largest single-site rapeseed field in all of South Korea.
The 2026 edition runs from April 9 to 12 at Namji Sports Park (남지체육공원) in Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do. First held in 2006, the festival has grown into Changnyeong’s flagship event, drawing visitors with live stage performances, folk culture showcases, a rapeseed-themed orienteering course, and plenty of hands-on activities. The sweeping panorama of bright yellow blooms against the backdrop of the Nakdong River is the kind of spring scenery that stays with you long after you leave.
2026 Festival Details at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Dates | April 9 (Thu) – April 12 (Sun), 2026 |
| Hours | 09:00 – 21:00 daily |
| Venue | Namji Sports Park, Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun |
| Address | 177 Namjiganbyeon-gil, Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do |
| Admission | Free |
| Organized by | Changnyeong-gun (창녕군) |
| Operated by | Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Festival Committee |
| Contact | 055-530-1521 |
Programs and Events
Main Stage Highlights
The four-day lineup features performances and participatory events from morning to night.
- Changnyeong Farmer Beauty Pageant — A signature crowd-pleaser where local farmers compete in a lighthearted contest celebrating rural charm
- Opening & Closing Ceremonies — Special stage performances kick off and wrap up the festival
- Rapeseed Radienteering — An orienteering-style adventure through the flower fields, where participants complete missions at checkpoints scattered across the landscape
- National Youth Singing Contest — Young vocalists from around the country take the stage in a competitive singing showcase
- Dongchun Circus — A classic Korean circus troupe performs acts that entertain all ages
Side Events
- Yeongsansoemeori Daegi Demonstration — A live showcase of Changnyeong’s traditional folk game, a dramatic bull-charging reenactment
- Painting Contest — Artists of all levels paint the rapeseed scenery on-site
- Youth Night — An evening program that keeps the energy going well after sunset
Hands-On Activities
- Rapeseed Arcade — Canola-themed games and amusements for visitors of all ages
- Children’s Playground — A dedicated play area that makes this festival an easy choice for families
- Craft & Food Booths — DIY workshops and local snacks to sample
- Free Photo Printing — Get your festival snapshots printed on the spot at no cost
Admission
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free |
The 2026 Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Festival is entirely free to attend. No tickets, no reservations — just show up and enjoy every performance, exhibit, and hands-on program at your own pace.
How to Get There
The festival is held at Namji Sports Park in Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Address | 177 Namjiganbyeon-gil, Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do |
| Phone | 055-530-1521 |
| Website | www.cng.go.kr |
For detailed directions, parking information, and shuttle bus schedules, check the Changnyeong-gun website (www.cng.go.kr) or call the festival office at 055-530-1521.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early in the morning — Gates open at 09:00, and the first couple of hours offer the most peaceful experience before crowds build. Morning light is also ideal for photos.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — The rapeseed fields cover 110 hectares, so expect a lot of walking. Sneakers or trail shoes are a must.
- Take advantage of the free photo printing — It’s a nice touch that lets you walk away with a physical memento of your visit.
- Stay for the evening events — The grounds stay open until 21:00, and the Youth Night program gives the festival a completely different atmosphere after dark.
- Try the radienteering course — It’s the best way to explore the full expanse of the flower fields while keeping things fun and interactive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the 2026 Changnyeong Nakdonggang Rapeseed Festival?
The festival runs from April 9 (Thu) to April 12 (Sun), 2026. Gates open daily from 09:00 to 21:00, with daytime performances and evening events throughout.
Is there an admission fee?
No — the festival is completely free. No tickets or reservations are required. All performances and hands-on programs are open to everyone at no charge.
Where is the festival held?
It takes place at Namji Sports Park in Namji-eup, Changnyeong-gun (남지강변길 177). The venue spans 110 hectares (about 270 acres) of rapeseed fields along the Nakdong River — the largest single-site canola field in Korea.
What programs and events are available?
Highlights include opening and closing ceremonies, the Changnyeong Farmer Beauty Pageant, a rapeseed radienteering course, a national youth singing contest, and Dongchun Circus performances. Side events feature folk art demonstrations, painting contests, and evening “Youth Night” programs. Hands-on activities include a rapeseed-themed arcade, children’s playground, craft booths, and free photo printing.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely. A dedicated children’s playground, hands-on craft booths, and the Dongchun Circus make it a great outing for families with kids of all ages.
How can I get more information or contact the organizers?
Call the festival office at 055-530-1521 or visit the Changnyeong-gun website at www.cng.go.kr for the latest details on transportation, parking, and shuttle services.