Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Jeongwol Daeboreum Festival

One of the most amazing fest of the Korean called Jeongwol Daeboreum. The first full moon of the lunar year, called Jeongwol Daeboreum (정월 대보름), is celebrated across Korea. The celebration is a way for farmers to pray for a good crop in the coming farming season. It’s also a time for individuals to make wishes for their future.The central activity of this festival is the burning of large bonfires called daljip (달집) which literally means “moon house”. The base of the daljip is covered by wishes written on paper by attendees. Other activities included looking at the moon while making wishes (달맞이), and swinging cans full of fire in circles (쥐불놀이).
The believers pray for a lucky and healthy year.
On the opening evening of the festival, an impressive ceremony is held: the burn of Daljip. This is a wooden structure which is built every year on the hill top. On the climax of the ceremony, the structure is burnt and the giant flames light the island's sky.
During the three days of the festival, traditional sport contests are held. One of the contests is Deumdol which, in ancient time, was an integral part of the maturity ceremony of the island's residents. In the unusual contest, the competitors carry a stone of 130 kg in their hands. The competitor who passes the longest distance is the winner.
The festival reaches its climax in traditional events, various culture shows and shooting fireworks which are held in the evening.

One should not miss this fire craker fest of Korea specially who are at Korea.

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