2026 Gongju Chestnut Festival (Winter Gongju Roasted Chestnut Festival)

If you are looking for a unique winter food festival in Korea, the Gongju Roasted Chestnut Festival is worth visiting. This family-friendly event combines hands-on experiences, local specialties, and a lively market atmosphere.

Roasting chestnuts in large wire baskets over a giant charcoal fire pit at the Gongju Chestnut Festival in South Korea

Festival Information

Dates: February 4 – February 8, 2026
Location: Geumgang Singwan Park Expo Area, Gongju, South Korea
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission: Free

The festival takes place along the Geumgang riverside, making it easy to walk around and enjoy both the scenery and the event.

First Impression: A Long Row of Chestnut Booths

As soon as you enter, you will see rows of booths selling:

Fresh chestnuts
Chestnut-based desserts
Local snacks
Regional specialty products

The entire area feels like a traditional winter market, filled with the warm scent of roasted chestnuts.

Main Highlight: Giant Fire Pit Roasting Experience

The main attraction of the festival is the large fire pit roasting zone.

1kg of chestnuts for roasting: 12,000 KRW
Multiple fire pits and tables are installed
Even with many visitors, waiting time is minimal
Staff recommend roasting for at least 10 minutes for proper cooking

Visitors can buy raw chestnuts on-site and roast them directly over charcoal. It is a simple activity, but surprisingly memorable—especially for families with children.

Festival Program Zones

The festival is divided into themed sections:

Industry Zone: International and wellness-related exhibition booths
Product Zone: Chestnut-based products from across Korea
Experience Zone: Educational and hands-on activities
Communication Zone: International chestnut bakery and rice cake competition (Feb 7)
Competition Zone: Chestnut cooking and dessert contests with recipe displays

This is more than just a food event—it also highlights Gongju’s chestnut industry and culinary creativity.

Why Gongju Chestnuts Are Special

Gongju chestnuts are known for:

Glossy appearance
Firm texture
Strong natural sweetness
Excellent storage quality

Common varieties include General, Okgwang (the premium variety), Daebo, and Protan.
Prices typically range from 7,000 KRW to 14,000 KRW, depending on type and size.
Tasting is available before purchase.

Final Thoughts

With free admission, spacious roasting areas, and a hands-on experience at its center, the Gongju Chestnut Festival is an ideal winter outing.

If you want to experience Korean winter food culture beyond typical tourist attractions, this festival offers something both local and authentic.