The Dongang ferry was once a popular mode of transportation along the Hangang River. While it was gradually outdated with the growth of highways and mass transportation, the ferry was a useful mode of transportation and the livelihood of people living upstream of the Hangang River. The festival commemorates and reproduces the lives of these people and their local culture. With the beautiful Donggang River as a backdrop, the event offers a wide array of performances, cultural events (honoring the Joseon poet Kim Sat-gat), and outdoor activities (rafting, hang-gliding, paragliding, etc). The festival hosts many of the fun activities visitors to Yeongwol County can enjoy.