Jangheung Water Festival

Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival — A Summer Dive into Tamjin River, a Haven for Family Water Play

In midsummer, Tamjin River in Jangheung, Jeollanam-do, transforms into a giant water playground. The Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival is a representative summer water festival in Korea, enjoyed in the heart of the city by drawing clean, Grade 1 river water. It combines Saldaecheop, known as 'the world's biggest water fight,' with various water activities. Marking its 19th anniversary in 2026, it will be held for 9 days from July 25th to August 2nd. It is a cultural tourism festival beloved by family travelers, having been selected as one of the '2026 Consumer-Selected Best Brands'.

At a Glance

What kind of festival is it — A water commotion on Grade 1 Tamjin River

The essence of the Jangheung Water Festival is water itself. The clear water of the Tamjin River, which flows through Jeongnamjin Jangheung, is brought directly, covering the entire riverbank and streets with water. The most famous program is the 'Saldaecheop Street Parade,' where the entire street transforms into a massive water fight arena — an iconic scene of the festival where people of all ages jump in with water guns and buckets. It's a moment when the refreshing coolness that makes you forget the heat and the unique sense of liberation of the festival explode together.

Key Programs

• Saldaecheop Street Parade · The World's Biggest Water Fight — The festival's signature. An interactive highlight where the entire street becomes a sea of water.
• Water Activities — A full course of water play enjoyed in the river and pools, including outdoor swimming pools, rafts, canoes, wooden boats, water bikes, banana boats, and flyboards.
• Participatory Games — Games for the whole family, such as golden fish catching, underwater tug-of-war, and global underwater tug-of-war.
• Night & Youth Contents — From the Starlight Moonlight Youth Zone, Water Play Zone, Slush Festa, to 'Jangheung Mulbit Yajeang' — summer night entertainment that continues even after sunset.
• Experience Zone — Abundant attractions beyond water play, including igloo experience, eco-friendly electric vehicle rides, and traditional games.

If You're With Kids

This festival has many strengths, especially as a travel destination for families with children. Water play areas with shallow water and outdoor pools are provided, making it safe for children to enjoy. The festival grounds are equipped with convenience facilities such as portable restrooms (approx. 23 locations), shower rooms (5 locations), convenience stores (3 locations), and locker facilities (4 locations). After water play, if you add a course to rest in the shade of the phytoncide-filled forest at the nearby Pyeonbaeksup Wood Land, it becomes a day where you can manage both the heat and your energy.

How to Get There & What to Prepare

• By Car: Jangheung downtown area and the Tamjin River embankment are the event venues. Since vehicles tend to crowd on peak season weekends, early morning arrival is recommended.
• By Public Transport: Relatively close to Jangheung Intercity Bus Terminal. For exact routes, shuttle services, and parking, check the 'How to Get Here' guide on the official Jangheung-gun website.
• What to Prepare: Spare clothes and towels, waterproof bags, aqua shoes, and water guns are essential. As the midday sun's UV rays are strong, also bring a hat and sunscreen.

Recommended Summer Water Play to Enjoy Together

If you're looking for more water festivals, explore our collection of Summer Water Festivals. If you want a different kind of summer rolling in the mud, the Boryeong Mud Festival is a great match.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the period? It will be held for 9 days from July 25th to August 2nd, 2026.
• Where is it held? It is held in the Tamjin River, Pyeonbaeksup Wood Land, and PapyongZIP areas of Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do Gwangju Integrated Special City.
• Can children enjoy it? Yes, it is suitable for families as there are shallow water play areas, outdoor pools, and convenience facilities like shower rooms.
• What about admission fees and program schedule? Detailed schedules and fees are subject to change, so please check the official website (festival.jangheung.go.kr).

One-Line Summary

The Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival, 'the world's biggest water fight,' brings in the entire Grade 1 Tamjin River. With Saldaecheop and various water activities, plus a Pyeonbaeksup rest area, it's the top summer family water festival for 2026.

Also Recommended

Summer Water Festivals · Boryeong Mud Festival · Places to Visit in July

Recommended Search Keywords for Foreigners: Jangheung Water Festival, Tamjin River Korea, Korea summer water festival, Jeollanam-do travel, Korean water fight festival