Date
Monday
Feb
24

February 24

Lantern Festival Taiwan

Experience the beauty of Taiwan's Lantern Festival; a dazzling display of light, culture and tradition that will leave you starstruck!

Type
Day
Category
Cultural
Country
Taiwan

Introduction

Get ready to be mesmerized and illuminated on February 24, during the Lantern Festival Taiwan, which is one of the most celebrated events in the country. This magical night marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations and features a sea of hand-crafted, brightly lit lanterns that fill the night sky with shimmering light. The Lantern Festival dates back to the Tang Dynasty, but it wasn't until the 1990s that Taiwan enhanced it into a major event featuring dazzling light exhibits, traditional performances, and lantern-contest award ceremonies. It's not just an event; it's a spectacular celebration of culture, tradition, and unity that brings people from all over the world together. Go beyond the ordinary, step into a world of wonder, and let yourself be guided by the glow on this fantastic day. You're sure to cherish this experience forever!

Lantern Festival Taiwan Timeline

618
Origins of Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival originated in China during the Tang Dynasty, intended as a time for individuals to pray for good health and prosperity.
1662
Introduction to Taiwan
As Taiwan became heavily influenced by Chinese culture during the Qing Dynasty, traditions like the Lantern Festival were introduced to the island.
1947
National Holiday Recognition
The Taiwanese government officially recognized the Lantern Festival as a national holiday as part of the Lunar New Year celebrations.
1990
Festival Enhancement
Taiwan began to enhance the Lantern Festival into a larger event featuring light exhibits, traditional performances, and lantern-contest award ceremonies.
2018
Largest Lantern Festival
Taiwan held its largest Lantern Festival yet, with over 11 million visitors attending, solidifying its status as a major international event.

How to Celebrate Lantern Festival Taiwan

1

Create your own lantern

Channel your inner artist and make your own lantern. Not only does this give a personal touch to the festival, but it's also a great way to immerse yourself in the tradition and culture of Taiwan. You can even host a lantern party where you and your friends spend time crafting your own lanterns to display.

2

Join a lantern lighting ceremony

Many towns and cities in Taiwan host lantern lighting ceremonies. In the evening, join the crowds to release your lanterns into the night sky. The sight of countless lanterns floating into the darkness is truly awe-inspiring.

3

Participate in a lantern contest

Fancy more competition? Enter your handmade lantern in a contest. Many neighborhoods, schools, and organizations host these events and reward the most creative and beautifully crafted lanterns.

4

Cook traditional Taiwanese dishes

The Lantern Festival in Taiwan is not all about lights and lanterns; it's also a feast for your taste buds! In conjunction with this festive event, prepare traditional dishes such as sweet rice balls (tangyuan), pineapple cakes, or sticky rice dumplings (zongzi) to complete your celebration.

5

Watch a Lantern Festival parade

The Lantern Festival is marked by several parades throughout Taiwan. These parades are a spectacle of radiant colors, traditional music, and dances, which give you a real sense of Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. It's a must-see for any visitor.

Why We Love Lantern Festival Taiwan

A

It's a fantastic cultural experience

Everything about the Lantern Festival immerses you in Taiwanese culture, from the handcrafted lanterns to the traditional cuisine being served. It's an incredible opportunity to truly learn about and appreciate the rich heritage of Taiwan.

B

It's visually breathtaking

The sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the night sky is awe-inspiring. There is something magical about participating in this community celebration where everyone's creativity, captured in their unique lantern designs, is literally on display.

C

It promotes unity and togetherness

The lantern festival promotes a sense of unity as everyone comes together to celebrate the end of the Lunar New Year. Regardless of where you're from, on this day, you are part of a community brought together by shared joy and light.