Daegu Chimac Festival takes flight with global ambitions

Daegu is gearing up to host the 14th annual Daegu Chimac Festival, a celebration of South Korea's beloved chicken and beer culture, from July 1st to 5th. Under the slogan 'Chimac 26 (Takeoff)', this year's festival aims to elevate Daegu's culinary identity onto the global stage. The event's designation as a 'Preliminary Global Festival' by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism underscores its growing international appeal and ambition.

Festival-goers can expect an immersive experience starting at the 'Chimac 26 Gate,' designed to resemble an airport arrival checkpoint. The venue, spread across Duryu Park, will feature various zones including the 'Chimac Earth Globe,' a symbol of the festival's global aspirations, the 'Chimac Singalong Club,' and the 'Chimac Culture Street.' Musical performances will headline the event, with popular artists like FT Island, N.Flying, 10cm, and OneSun, alongside comedians and DJs, set to perform on the main stage. An indie rock concert, 'Indie Band Egg Concert,' will also add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond the culinary and entertainment aspects, the festival is designed to stimulate the local economy. Visitors who stay overnight in Daegu and present proof of accommodation or receipts from local traditional markets and businesses can receive a 20,000 won welcome bonus in the local currency, Daeguro Pay. Additionally, those who spend over 20,000 won at local small businesses and share their experience on social media are eligible for a chance to win a 10,000 won Daeguro Pay voucher. The festival will also utilize an AI-powered platform to provide multilingual information, real-time crowd density updates, and chatbot services, ensuring a seamless experience for both domestic and international visitors.