Celebrating the historic hosting of the World Cup, the 29th Myeongdong Festival will be held in the heart of Seoul from May 17 to June 23. An opening ceremony at 2:00pm on May 17 will mark the beginning of the downtown festival at with a cannon salute, marching band parade and cheer leading show. Cultural events introducing countries competing at the World Cup finals including Japan, Brazil, France, Italy, Portugal, the US and China, will also accompany various dance and music performances.