A poster for the Sorae Port Festival [Namdong-gu]
A poster for the Sorae Port Festival [Namdong-gu]

The Sorae Port Festival, one of Incheon's signature annual events, will be held at Sorae Port in October.

Namdong-gu and the Namdong Culture Foundation announced Monday that the 26th Sorae Port Festival will run for three days from Oct. 2 to Oct. 4 under the theme "Play at Sorae," featuring programs that blend the port's fisheries and ecological resources with local culture and community participation.

This year's festival is centered on Haeoeum Plaza and connects surrounding attractions — including the Sorae History Museum, Jangdo Fortress Site, Shrimp Tower and the traditional fish market — into a single festival zone.

On the opening day, events will include a seafood cooking competition, the Sorae Sea Parade and a musical performance. The opening stage will feature a concert by rock band Crying Nut alongside a maritime fireworks show.

The second day will bring performances by citizen bands, the Sorae King contest, a seafood auction, a fashion show and a youth K-pop concert.

The final day will feature a concert and choral performance by local artists and residents, a circus program and a closing performance by singer Baek Ji-young, capped by a fireworks show.

A range of hands-on programs will be available for families. Haeoeum Plaza will host boat fishing, tidal flat and salt-making experiences, and children's play facilities, along with a dedicated space for K-beauty companies.

At the traditional fish market, Jangdo Fortress Site and Shrimp Tower, visitors can take part in drawing competitions, busking performances, traditional games and kite flying, all drawing on the history and culture of Sorae Port.

A "Sorae Plogging Stamp Tour" will also be offered, inviting participants to walk through Sorae Port and Sorae Wetland Ecological Park while picking up litter.

Participants will receive discount vouchers redeemable at the traditional fish market, linking tourism with the local economy. A seafood auction experience will also give visitors a firsthand look at the port's fishing culture.

The festival grounds will feature food and rest areas, as well as fish-lantern installations crafted by local residents. Some experiences, food stalls and flea market vendors will accept the Munhwa Nuri Card.

Detailed programs and schedules for the Sorae Port Festival are available on the festival's official Naver blog.


gilbert@heraldcorp.com