Damyang Bamboo Festival (담양대나무축제)

In Damyang, a town where bamboo grows abundantly, there used to be a day when villagers gathered to plant bamboo, known as the Day of Jukchwi (bamboo planting day). This tradition has evolved into an annual festival celebrated in May since the Goryeo Dynasty. The festival takes place around the famous bamboo forest, Juknokwon, and the natural monument forest, Gwanbangjerim Forest. Various bamboo-related activities are available, such as making bamboo kites, shooting bamboo water guns, and riding bamboo rafts and canoes. A stroll through the bamboo forest, which emits phytoncides and negative ions, offers a relaxing charm during the festival. Visitors can also enjoy Damyang’s local food on the lawns, watch performances, and participate in various events, immersing themselves in the celebration of Damyang and bamboo. ◎ Day of Bamboo PlantingMay 13 on the lunar calendar is a good day to plant bamboo. It is recommended that bamboo shoots be planted during the rainy season, as bamboo loves water.