Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival (마산가고파국화축제)

The Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival is Changwon's representative autumn festival, held since 2000 to promote the excellence of Masan chrysanthemums and boost their consumption. Masan is the region where Korea's first commercial chrysanthemum cultivation began in 1961, and where the country first exported chrysanthemums to Japan in 1972. Visitors can experience the history of Masan's chrysanthemum industry, which has grown based on its mild climate and cultivation techniques, as well as encounter various chrysanthemum artworks at the festival. Centered around chrysanthemum exhibitions, the festival features a variety of events including a multimedia fireworks show, a maritime fireworks display, and the Gukhyang Song Festival. Indie Music Festa, cultural performances by local artists, a chrysanthemum bonsai exhibition, chrysanthemum dance cheerleading, and hands-on experience programs are also prepared, allowing visitors to enjoy chrysanthemum artworks, performances, and food together against the backdrop of the sea.