Enjoy Quality Time with Family at the Gangneung Myeongju Puppet Festival

📅 Dates: July 22, 2026 - July 26, 2026
📍 Address: 9-1, Gyeonggang-ro 2021beon-gil, Gangneung, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Myeongju-dong)
💰 Admission Fees: [Advance Purchase] - Opening performance ticket: 7,000 KRW - Group ticket (10 or more people): 5,000 KRW per person - Group package (1 performance + experience): 7,000 KRW / Choose 1 experience - Performance ticket (1 performance): 6,000 KRW - Free admission ticket (up to 4 performances / excluding special performances): 16,000 KRW - Special performance ticket (1 performance): 10,000 KRW [On-site Purchase] - Performance ticket (1 performance): 8,000 KRW - Special performance ticket (1 performance): 10,000 KRW ※ Free admission: Group leaders / Children under 3 years old (under 36 months / must bring baby booklet) ※ 50% discount for parents/grandparents accompanying minors aged 4-18 (discounts do not apply to opening performances, group tickets, cousins, etc.) ※ The parent/grandparent discount aims to promote a culture where minors can enjoy and discuss performances with their family.
📞 Contact: 033-823-3203
⏳ Duration: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

What is the Myeongju Puppet Festival?

The Myeongju Puppet Festival, held annually in Gangneung, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, has been a beloved event for locals since its inception in 2014. Attracting around 10,000 visitors each year, it has become a key family cultural festival in the Yeongdong region. The festival features a variety of performances, including hand puppet shows, paper cup puppet shows, puppet musicals, and shadow puppet performances, along with diverse experience programs and exhibitions that make it a delightful time for families.

Festival Schedule and Programs

The Myeongju Puppet Festival will take place from July 22 to July 26, 2026.
- Opening Performance
- Date: July 22, 2026 (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM
- Location: Gangneung Art Center Small Theater
- Content: A warm adventure discovering uniqueness beyond differences featuring Samsaekyi.

Regular Performances
Date: July 23 (Thursday) - July 26 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Myeongju Arts Plaza & Small Performance Hall
Content: Puppet performances from 18 domestic and international troupes, including "The Seven Little Goats and the Wolf," "Sugar Monster," and "The Unappreciative Tiger."
Relay Performances
Date: July 25 (Saturday) at 7:00 PM
Location: Gangneung Daedohoebu Gwana
Content: A relay performance featuring various troupes and a children’s flea market program.

Viewing Tips

Admission Fee: The opening performance ticket is 7,000 KRW for advance purchase and 8,000 KRW for on-site purchase. Special performances can be viewed for 10,000 KRW.
Transportation: Parking may be limited during the festival, so using public transportation is recommended.
Minor Discounts: Parents and grandparents accompanying minors aged 4-18 can receive a 50% discount.

🎯 Top 3 Must-See Programs

Samsaekyi's Warm Adventure: A touching story that offers a special experience as the opening performance.
The Seven Little Goats and the Wolf: A popular performance featuring fun stories and adorable characters.
Relay Performances: Enjoy a delightful time with special performances from various troupes.

Recommended Restaurants

After enjoying the festival, consider dining at nearby restaurants.
- Soba Wheat: A place to enjoy various noodle dishes made with fresh ingredients.
- Bongbong Mill: A popular restaurant offering traditional Korean dishes, especially favored by families.
- Inseong Restaurant: Known for generous portions and delicious side dishes.

Recommended Accommodations

Finding a comfortable place to unwind after a day of festivities is important.
- Gangneung Tourist Hotel: Famous for its comfortable rooms and friendly service.
- Cabin: A cozy and quiet accommodation ideal for a healing experience in nature.
- Podobongbong: A family-friendly accommodation with various amenities.

Conclusion

The Gangneung Myeongju Puppet Festival is the perfect cultural festival for families to enjoy together. With a variety of puppet shows and experience programs, both children and adults can have a wonderful time. Be sure to include the Myeongju Puppet Festival in your travel plans to Gangneung this July!