KR

38th Chuncheon Puppet Festival

The 38th Chuncheon Puppet Festival is a premier international event showcasing puppetry arts from around the globe. Held from September 10 to 16, 2026, in Chuncheon, South Korea, this festival is recognized as Asia's largest gathering of its kind. Centered at the Chuncheon Puppet Theater and various venues across the city, the celebration features diverse performances by elite artists, large-scale parades, and a vibrant art market designed to engage audiences of all ages.

Date
Sep 10-16, 2026
Location
춘천시
+ Add ICS
38th Chuncheon Puppet Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Recognized as Asia's largest puppet festival featuring top-tier international artists.
  • The Puppet Carnival opening event, featuring parades inspired by traditional gilnori.
  • Comprehensive programming including art markets, workshops, and professional exhibitions.
  • Hosted primarily at the iconic Chuncheon Puppet Theater, a permanent base for the genre since 2001.
Established in 1989, the Chuncheon Puppet Festival transitioned from a grassroots private-sector initiative into a cornerstone of the international puppetry scene. It gained significant momentum in 2001 after the construction of its permanent home, the Chuncheon Puppet Theater, which is situated by the water in the lakeside city. The festival serves as a vital platform for global cultural exchange, reflecting the evolution of puppetry through high-quality productions, professional workshops, and exhibitions.

Key activities include the Puppet Carnival, which incorporates traditional Korean street processions known as gilnori. Visitors can explore an art market and participate in hands-on programs aimed at promoting the growth of the puppetry genre. The event has a history of international prestige, having previously hosted the Union Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA) congress, solidifying its status as a major hub for puppeteers and theater enthusiasts worldwide.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

Keep exploring

Use this event as a starting point for nearby places, matching topics, and calendar paths.

Similar events

More events connected by topic, style, or cultural theme.

View all
Chuncheon-si calendar Open local events and dates. More in Gangwon Browse the wider area. South Korea calendar Browse the national event calendar.