A Festival of Snow Flowers Embroidering the Winter Hillsides: Trip to the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival
Introduction
Daegwallyeong, where winter’s breath settles first, grows quieter and deeper as the snow falls. When the snowfields slowly blanket the mountain slopes, the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival opens its gates, as if the white scenery had been moved there intact. With the excitement of waiting for the first snowfall still ahead, I tried sketching the coming season of snow blossoms one step in advance.
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Where to Stay
- Restaurants & Cafés
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Get There
- Closing Thoughts
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Event Name : Daegwallyeong Snow Festival
- Dates : February 13 (Fri) – February 22 (Sun), 2026
- Hours : 10:00 – 17:00
- Venue : 135-9 Daegwallyeong-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Daegwallyeong-myeon), Songcheon area, Daegwallyeong-myeon
- Admission : Paid (see website for detailed pricing)
- Organizer : Daegwallyeong-myeon Festival Committee
- Inquiries : +82-33-335-3995 (Daegwallyeong-myeon Festival Committee)
- Official Website : http://www.snowfestival.net
- 10:00 After entering the festival grounds, walk around the main plaza with its giant snow sculptures and massive snow tunnel to get a feel for the overall layout.
- 11:00 Stroll along the walking paths through the snowfields, taking in the snow and ice sculpture exhibition zone and scouting out photo spots.
- 12:30 Warm up with a simple lunch of local traditional foods and grilled dishes at the outdoor barbecue area.
- 14:00 Spend time with family and friends in the snow play zone, enjoying children’s sledding, snow tubing, ice slides, and more.
- 15:30 Visit the winter sports experience zone themed around “Nundongi” for photo ops and hands-on activities.
- After 17:00 Around sunset, return to the snow sculpture area to capture the transformed snowy landscape under the night lights.
If you plan to see the night illuminations, consider splitting your route into two parts for daytime and nighttime.
The Daegwallyeong Snow Festival began in 1993 and, with a history of over 30 years, is one of Korea’s signature winter festivals. It was born in Daegwallyeong—often called the heart of Korean winter—to overcome the low season, boost the local economy, and foster community among residents. Today, it has become a quintessential winter scene of Gangwon, attracting many visitors.
The festival’s theme is “The Growth Story of Winter Dreamer Nundongi Becoming a National Team Member.” Inspired by the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics, Nundongi—the Pyeongchang mascot who dreamed of joining the national sports team—journeys toward becoming a national athlete at the 2026 Milan Olympics, a story brought to life through giant snow and ice sculptures. With winter sports experience zones scattered across the snowfields, plus sledding hills and snow playgrounds, the festival is designed around hands-on activities that let you revel in snow and ice and feel the spirit of winter with your whole body.
Program Information
The towering snow sculptures and snow tunnel standing on the snowfields are the symbolic spaces of the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival. Walking among the sculptures inspired by Nundongi’s growth story and by winter and sports motifs feels like strolling through an open-air art museum carved from snow.
Snow and ice sculptures of various sizes and forms are displayed throughout the festival grounds, turning the whole snowfield into a gallery. As you walk slowly between the works, you can appreciate up close the delicate textures of winter created by light and shadow.
Children’s sledding hills and snow tubes are available, so both kids and adults can slide freely across the snowfields and feel like children again. With gentle slopes and safety staff on hand, this program is especially popular with families.
On the cold ice slides and in the ice playground, you can enjoy activities that are only possible in winter. The sound of sliding across ice mingles with laughter, adding to the lively atmosphere of the festival.
There are snow playgrounds where children can run around freely, along with photo zones featuring large snow sculptures. It’s a great place to build snowmen, have snowball fights, and take photos with Nundongi.
Programs such as wild boar freeze tag set against the snowy backdrop of Hwangbyeongsan, along with New Year’s folk games, are prepared. These activities blending tradition and play offer nostalgic memories for adults and new winter experiences for children.
One side of the festival grounds features an outdoor grill area and a space where you can enjoy local traditional foods. It’s like a small comma in the middle of the winter festivities—a place to warm up your chilled body with hot food and cozy lights.
After sunset, illuminations switch on across the snowfields and over the snow and ice sculptures, revealing a different side of the winter scenery. Snow blossoms sparkling as they catch the light are perfect to capture in photos and to store in your memory.
When visiting the festival, be sure to dress warmly with a hat, gloves, and winter boots. Since you’ll be walking on snow for extended periods, layering your clothes will help you maintain your body temperature.
Because there are many snow and ice sculptures and snowy landscapes, shoes with good traction are recommended. Footwear that firmly supports your ankles when walking on snow or crossing icy patches will make your visit much safer.
If you want to photograph the night lights and snowy scenery, it’s best to arrive with enough time after the lights come on and scout your angles first. After a preliminary look, return to your chosen spots for a better chance at photos without people blocking the view.
If you plan to shoot the night illuminations, check your preferred photo spots before sunset.
If you plan to stay out on the cold snowfields for a long time, bring hand warmers, a scarf, and other winter gear.
Visit (Planned) Impressions
Today is December 26, 2025. Since the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival runs from February 13 to 22, 2026, the festival has not yet begun. So I’d like to start this piece with the feeling of “my heart fluttering in anticipation of a festival that’s about to open soon.”
According to the festival website, the snow festival will be held from February 13 to 22, 2026, in Daegwallyeong, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, just as winter deepens in Daegwallyeong. It is organized by the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival Committee, with support from Pyeongchang-gun and the Pyeongchang Tourism & Culture Foundation, which makes it feel like a festival shaped by local hands.
This year’s festival is said to offer exhibits of snow and ice sculptures, as well as hands-on programs like sledding and ice play that people of all ages can enjoy. Seeing how the “experience and play” sections are emphasized in the program list on the website, it seems designed so that visitors can fully sense the feel of winter—the chill of a single snowball and the sound of gliding over ice—with their whole bodies.
I am also very much looking forward to the surrounding scenery. Places like Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch, Samyang Ranch, and Haneul Ranch offer winter landscapes where nature remains relatively untouched. In the clear air, the sparkle of snow under the light and the cold tingle at your toes as you step on the snowfields will likely leave a sweet warmth in your memory.
Soon I hope to stand at the festival grounds, gaze at the white snowflakes embroidering the sky, feel the delicate dance of snow crystals in the sunlight on my fingertips, and capture the quiet thrill of the moment with a single warm roasted chestnut. It would be lovely to wait together for that time, when our breath will rise like white mist in the winter air.
Where to Stay
The festival grounds are located in the center of Daegwallyeong-myeon, making it easy to pair with nearby accommodations for a 2-day, 1-night trip. There are many places to stay within about 10 minutes on foot or by car, so you can enjoy the festival into a snowy evening and then return leisurely to rest.
20 Songjeon 1-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension-style accommodation close to the festival grounds, with a layout suitable for families and groups.
On peak-season weekends, reservations fill up quickly, so once your dates are set, it’s best to book early.
Distance: 0.9 km
32 Songjeon 1-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension near a quiet residential area, perfect for savoring the afterglow of the festival in a peaceful atmosphere.
On snowy days, the access road can be slippery, so if you’re driving, allow extra time for the journey.
Distance: 1.0 km
5413 Gyeonggang-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension-style stay with sweeping views of Daegwallyeong, ideal for enjoying the snowy scenery as you relax.
There are some steep sections when driving, so on heavy snow days, winter tires and cautious driving are recommended.
Distance: 1.2 km
5425-12 Gyeonggang-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A cozy pension near the old Daegwallyeong road, ideal for enjoying a winter walk along the mountain slopes.
If you explore the nearby walking trails before or after check-in, you can enjoy both the festival and the natural scenery in one go.
Distance: 1.3 km
10-17 Samhyeondong 1-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension in a tranquil setting, perfect for feeling the quiet winter night air of Daegwallyeong.
If you’re driving, check in advance about parking availability for a more relaxed stay.
Distance: 1.5 km
52-7 Gasimeori-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located on a quiet mountainside, this accommodation lets you stay while looking out over the snowy landscape.
It’s a bit removed from the town center, making it especially suitable for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Distance: 3.4 km
715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A large resort-style accommodation that makes a great base for skiing, sightseeing, and enjoying the festival together.
During peak season, rooms and facilities can get crowded, so advance reservations and time planning are recommended.
Distance: 4.2 km
1012 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A pension located slightly away from the town, ideal for spending a quiet winter night in nature.
A car is almost essential here, so if snow is forecast, be sure to check road conditions in advance.
Distance: 6.9 km
If snow is forecast, check tire chains or winter tires in advance if you are driving.
Restaurants & Cafés
After enjoying the snow festival in the cold wind, you’ll long even more for a bowl of hot soup or a steaming cup of tea. Here are places near the festival grounds where you can sit down for a meal or grab a light snack.
87 Gangbyeon-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place where you can enjoy charcoal-grilled dakgalbi and buckwheat makguksu together.
It can get busy in the early evening after the festival, so if possible, aim for lunch or off-peak hours.
Distance: 0.4 km
92 Daegwallyeong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A Korean restaurant in downtown Daegwallyeong, convenient for a casual meal.
Parking and seating availability varies by time of day, so during peak periods, visiting slightly earlier than usual mealtimes can make for a more relaxed experience.
Distance: 0.4 km
193-8 Daegwallyeong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant located along Daegwallyeong-ro with good accessibility when traveling by car.
It’s convenient to stop by before or after the festival, so plan a generous schedule and enjoy your meal at leisure.
Distance: 0.6 km
62-3 Olympic-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located near Olympic-ro, it’s convenient to visit along with nearby ski resorts and attractions.
The nearby roads can be somewhat congested, so if you’re driving, it’s helpful to check parking options in advance.
Distance: 0.9 km
5193 Gyeonggang-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A restaurant where you can taste gamja ongsimi, one of Gangwon’s representative local dishes.
It’s a great place to end a cold day when you’re craving a warm bowl of soup.
Distance: 1.3 km
715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A book café where you can enjoy warm drinks with a good read, perfect for taking a breather.
It’s convenient to visit along with ski resorts and nearby accommodations, so consider building in some relaxed time here.
Distance: 2.4 km
365-12 Daegwallyeong Maru-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A dining spot with an exotic atmosphere that pairs well with Daegwallyeong’s ranch landscapes.
It’s recommended for when you want to enjoy a leisurely meal together with visits to nearby attractions.
Distance: 3.1 km
58 Mangwabong-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place to enjoy Gangwon-style meals centered around buckwheat makguksu.
As it’s a bit far from the festival grounds, it’s efficient to visit by car while combining it with nearby sightseeing.
Distance: 9.8 km
Hot soup dishes help you quickly regain body temperature after outdoor activities.
Nearby Attractions
Combining the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival with nearby attractions will make your day even richer. If you’re driving, group nearby experience centers and viewpoints together in one loop so that the impression of the snow festival flows naturally into Daegwallyeong’s winter scenery.
174 Kkotbatyangji-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place where you can enjoy cheese-making and other activities amid the winds and ranch scenery of Daegwallyeong.
Hours and available programs may vary by season, so checking in advance is recommended.
Distance: 1.7 km
5107 Gyeonggang-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A small church that looks especially like a scene from a fairy tale when covered in snow.
To preserve the quiet atmosphere, please be mindful of your surroundings and keep your visit brief, focusing on taking a few photos and a short stay.
Distance: 2.1 km
715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A ranch where you can enjoy time with alpacas through various hands-on activities, great for visiting with children.
Animal encounter times may change depending on the weather, so it’s best to check operating information before your visit.
Distance: 2.4 km
715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A glass observatory where you can take in the snowy landscape of the Daegwallyeong area at a glance.
In winter, the wind is strong and temperatures are low, so be sure to bring a thick coat and gloves.
Distance: 2.4 km
33-5 Galgol-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A place where you can enjoy both experiences and meals themed around highland vegetables and dumplings.
On snowy days, nearby roads can be slippery, so when driving, reduce your speed and travel with plenty of time.
Distance: 2.6 km
135 Sports Park-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
An exhibition space where you can learn about the history of skiing in Daegwallyeong and Korea in one place.
As it is an indoor space, it’s a good option to pair with the festival on days with heavy snowfall when you want to reduce outdoor activities.
Distance: 2.8 km
50 Sports Park 1-gil, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A healing space ideal for walking along forest trails, especially memorable for its snow-covered paths.
When there’s a lot of snow, trekking shoes or waterproof footwear make the walk much more comfortable.
Distance: 2.9 km
203 Anbandegi 1-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A tourist farm where you can admire highland vegetable fields and sweeping vistas, also popular as a scenic drive.
As it is somewhat far from Daegwallyeong, we recommend allowing about half a day for the trip.
Distance: 7.5 km
Mixing indoor exhibitions with outdoor walking courses in your itinerary will help reduce fatigue.
How to Get There
Public Transportation — Information on public transportation to the festival grounds is updated regularly on the official website and map services, so please check routes and timetables before your visit. The typical way is to transfer from intercity buses heading to Pyeongchang/Daegwallyeong to local buses.
By Car — Set your navigation to 135-9 Daegwallyeong-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, and you will be guided close to the festival grounds. In winter, roads can be slippery due to snow and ice, so check your tires, chains, and overall vehicle safety before departure, and allow extra travel time.
Due to the mountainous terrain of Gangwon, the weather can change quickly, so recheck the forecast on the day you leave.
Closing Thoughts
The Daegwallyeong Snow Festival, held in Daegwallyeong—the so‑called heart of winter—is like stepping into a winter fairy tale where snowfields and snow and ice sculptures come together. Giant snow sculptures and tunnels, sledding hills and ice playgrounds, and snowy landscapes sparkling under night lights all combine to let you fully feel the season of snow.
Just imagining the festival grounds soon to be dyed with snow blossoms, and planning your schedule and route in advance, becomes a source of excitement. If you come to Daegwallyeong with sufficient winter gear and an unhurried mindset, this trip will remain a warm memory for a long time, even in the cold air.
