The Dolmen Autumn Flower Festival held in Hwasun County, Gwangju, has gained significant popularity.
Running from October 16 to 25, the festival took place over ten days at the Hwasun Dolmen site.
This year's festival, themed 'A Thousand-Year Story Along the Flower Path,' showcased the historical value of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolmen, vibrant autumn floral displays, and popular cultural content, attracting families and younger visitors despite the inclement weather.
To enhance budget efficiency and promote community unity, the traditional opening ceremony was omitted, and a 'Citizens' Day' event was held on the festival's first day.
Additionally, visitors received a full refund of the 5,000 won admission fee in Hwasun Love gift certificates, encouraging spending within the local economy and amplifying the festival's impact.
Notably, the 'Dolmen Universe (DM·DolMen)' content, which highlights the historical identity of the dolmens, attracted attention.
In 'Jjangdol Village,' various prehistoric experiences were offered, including Bronze Age costume and game experiences, hunting, jewelry making, dolmen naming, and a soap-making workshop, which were particularly popular among children and students.
'Chunsik Village,' featuring popular Kakao Friends characters, presented a large air balloon photo zone and 'Chunsik History Road,' providing unique attractions and enjoyment that resonated with families and younger generations.
In the Dogok Dolmen Grass Plaza, four themed gardens were created, including a dinosaur-themed children's garden, showcasing a variety of flowers and chrysanthemum sculptures.
Alongside a chrysanthemum bonsai exhibition, a hands-on program allowed visitors to plant chrysanthemums.
In the Chunyang area, an animal garden and children's playground were established for family enjoyment.
Every weekend, diverse themed DM concerts, abundant food stalls, and comfortable resting areas contributed to a festival atmosphere that appealed to all generations.
Although the festival has concluded, Hwasun County plans to keep the five themed gardens open for free until November 15 for continued autumn flower displays.
Hwasun County Mayor Lim Ji-rak stated, 'This year, we modernly reinterpreted the value of the UNESCO World Heritage dolmens and added enriching experiences and attractions, resulting in a large number of visitors. We will continue to develop differentiated festival content that connects Hwasun's unique historical and cultural resources with nature.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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