In midsize cities like Hanam, where the community is smaller compared to the larger cities, seasonal festivals were usually a big deal for the townsfolk. It almost always marked an occasion to celebrate and be merry, and brought something new to the people's usual rhythmic life.
Chilseok festival was one such event in which especially youngsters would take part. On this day, Hanam's townsfolk would take baths with the purpose of cleansing one's body and soul, and they would eat seasonal food like wheat noodle, melons and pumpkins.
During the evening, and until late into the night, the young people would gather around the market and the river bank to celebrate what Joseon folk considered to be one of the most romantic events of the year: the reunion of the Jiknyeo and the herder Gyeonwu.
