The Dano Festival, a vibrant celebration that unites the past with the present, is nested in the heart of Korean cultural heritage. This festival, also known as the Surit-nal, is held yearly on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month and provides a vivid window into Korea’s rich heritage, folklore, and sense of community. With its origins firmly ingrained in tradition and history, the Dano Festival is still a lively testament of Korean culture that draws both visitors and locals into its festive embrace.
Historical Origins and Significance
The Dano Festival has its roots firmly planted in pre-modern Korean society, dating back more than a millennium. In the past, the festival was a time to celebrate the end of spring and the onset of summer, marking a period of agricultural significance. It was also an occasion to pay tribute to ancestors and pray for a plentiful crop. The festival’s timing, which coincides with the summer solstice, reflects its deep connection with nature and seasonal rhythms.
Dano festival has a spiritual meaning when people celebrate it to ward off illnesses and evil spirits during the summer season by engaging in a variety of rituals, performances, and customs. It was a moment to seek refuge from evil forces and purify oneself.
Traditional Customs and Rituals
Central to the festivities are a range of traditional customs that bring communities together in joyous celebration.
Rituals and Ceremonies: traditional rituals, or Jesa, are held to commemorate ancestors and express gratitude to them. Families get together to create an atmosphere of gratitude and reverence by making offerings of food, drink, and symbolic objects. These rituals strengthen community and familial ties in addition to maintaining ancestors’ traditions.
Wearing Hanbok: A hallmark of Dano is the wearing of “hanbok”, Korea’s traditional attire. This beautiful and colorful clothing is often seen in shades of blue, red, and yellow, adorned with intricate embroidery and patterns. Wearing hanbok during Dano is more than a nod to tradition; it’s a celebration of Korean culture and a way to honor the festival’s historic roots.
Special Foods and Drinks: Food plays a central role in Dano festivities. One of the traditional dishes is “sujeonggwa”—a refreshing cinnamon punch made from dried persimmons, cinnamon, and ginger. This drink is believed to aid digestion and promote health. Another Dano delicacy is “songpyeon,” sweet rice cakes filled with ingredients like red beans, sesame seeds, or chestnuts, and shaped into crescent moons. These rice cakes are not only delicious but are also a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
Herbal Practices: Dano is also associated with various herbal practices. One notable tradition is the washing of hair with “Dano water,” which is infused with medicinal herbs like mugwort. This practice is believed to help maintain good health, cleanse the body, and protect against illnesses. The use of herbal remedies underscores the festival’s connection to wellness and traditional Korean medicine.
Festive Activities and Games
The festival is brimming with activities that showcase Korean culture and community spirit:
Ssireum (Korean Wrestling): One of the most exciting events is “Ssireum,” a form of traditional Korean wrestling. Participants, dressed in traditional attire, engage in a friendly competition of strength and technique. This game is not only a display of physical prowess but also a community event that draws spectators from all walks of life.
Folk Performances and Music: Dano is marked by a variety of performances, including traditional dance and music. A renowned folk performance is the “Ganggangsullae”, a traditional circle dance performed by women under the moonlight. This dance, which involves intricate footwork and synchronized movements, is believed to have originated as a way to celebrate the harvest and invoke blessings. Another highlight is the “Nongak,” or farmer’s music, which features lively drumming, chanting, and dancing, reflecting the agricultural roots of the festival. Folk plays, drum performances, and dance routines offer a lively and engaging way for people to experience Korean cultural heritage.
Games and Competitions: In addition to Ssireum, various traditional games are played during Dano. These might include “Tuho” – a game where players throw arrows into a jar. Another traditional activity often seen during the Dano Festival is “jultagi”, which is tightrope walking. Performers walk across a thin rope or wire while performing tricks and acrobatics, demonstrating balance and agility.
Modern Celebrations and Global Recognition
In contemporary times, the Dano Festival has transformed while maintaining its traditional roots. Numerous cities across Korea celebrate with extensive festivals that feature performances, exhibitions, and community events. These gatherings often highlight traditional music and dance, celebrating Korea’s vibrant cultural heritage for both locals and international guests.
Additionally, the Dano Festival has garnered attention beyond Korea, with cultural exchanges and celebrations occurring in various countries. This worldwide interest fosters the promotion and preservation of Korean traditions, enabling diverse audiences to enjoy and engage in this distinctive cultural event.
Photo Credits
1.A park in fall. Photo by Rooftop on the Hanok.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Layla Nguyen is a passionate cultural enthusiast based in Hanoi, deeply immersed in Korean traditions, language, and cuisine. She explores the rich connections between Vietnam and Korea, sharing her insights through writing and community events. With a keen interest in fostering cultural exchange, Layla invites readers to join her journey of discovery and appreciation for these vibrant cultures.