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Celebrating Global Festivals with Locals in Taiwan

Taiwan is a vibrant and culturally diverse country that celebrates a wide range of global festivals. These festivals provide a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the rich traditions and customs of Taiwan. From colorful parades to delicious food, Taiwan’s festivals are a feast for the senses. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular global festivals celebrated in Taiwan and how you can join in the festivities with the locals.

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Section 1: Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Taiwan. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is a time for family reunions and celebrations. During this festival, the streets are adorned with red lanterns, and traditional lion and dragon dances can be seen in many cities. Locals gather to visit temples, exchange red envelopes filled with money, and enjoy festive meals with their loved ones.

• Fireworks: Fireworks are a common sight during Lunar New Year celebrations in Taiwan. The colorful displays light up the night sky and create a festive atmosphere.
• Street Markets: Street markets pop up all over Taiwan during the Lunar New Year, offering a wide variety of traditional snacks, decorations, and gifts.
• Traditional Food: Taiwanese families prepare special dishes during Lunar New Year, such as dumplings and sticky rice cakes, which are believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
• Dragon and Lion Dances: Dragon and lion dances are performed in many Taiwanese cities during Lunar New Year. These dances are believed to bring good fortune and drive away evil spirits.

Section 2: Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival is held on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year and marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is a magical event where thousands of lanterns light up the night sky, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The lanterns come in various shapes and sizes, depicting everything from animals to famous landmarks. The Lantern Festival is a time for families to come together, make wishes, and release lanterns into the sky.

• Lantern Displays: During the Lantern Festival, various cities in Taiwan host lantern displays, showcasing intricate and beautiful lantern designs. Visitors can stroll through these displays and admire the artistry.
• Sky Lanterns: Releasing sky lanterns is a popular tradition during the Lantern Festival. People write their wishes on the lanterns before releasing them into the night sky, symbolizing the release of their hopes and dreams.
• Lion Dance Performances: Lion dance performances are a common sight during the Lantern Festival. The vibrant lion costumes and energetic dance moves are believed to bring good luck and fortune.
• Food Stalls: Food stalls offering a variety of local delicacies can be found at the Lantern Festival. Visitors can indulge in traditional snacks and treats while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

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Section 3: Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. This festival commemorates the life and death of the famous poet Qu Yuan and involves dragon boat races, zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) eating, and various cultural activities. The Dragon Boat Festival is a time for communities to come together and celebrate their heritage.

• Dragon Boat Races: Dragon boat races are the highlight of the Dragon Boat Festival. Teams compete in long, narrow boats while paddling to the beat of drums. The races are thrilling to watch and attract large crowds.
• Zongzi: Zongzi, pyramid-shaped sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, are a traditional food eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival. They are filled with various ingredients like pork, beans, and nuts, and are steamed or boiled.
• Poetry Readings: The Dragon Boat Festival is also a time for poetry readings and recitals in honor of Qu Yuan. Many cultural events and performances take place during the festival, showcasing the beauty of Chinese literature and arts.
• Amulets and Sachets: It is believed that wearing amulets and hanging sachets filled with herbs can ward off evil spirits during the Dragon Boat Festival. These are often handmade and given as gifts to loved ones.

Section 4: Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Moon Festival, is a time for family gatherings and moon appreciation. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. During this festival, people enjoy mooncakes, light lanterns, and participate in various cultural activities.

• Mooncakes: Mooncakes are the traditional food of the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round pastries are filled with sweet or savory fillings and often have intricate designs on the surface. They are exchanged as gifts between friends and family.
• Lighting Lanterns: Lighting lanterns is a popular activity during the Mid-Autumn Festival. People of all ages gather in parks and open spaces to release lanterns into the night sky, creating a beautiful display of lights.
• Moon Appreciation: The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for moon appreciation. Families gather outdoors to admire the full moon and share stories and legends associated with the moon.
• Dragon and Lion Dance Performances: Dragon and lion dance performances are often held during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These lively dances bring joy and excitement to the celebrations.

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Section 5: International Balloon Festival

The International Balloon Festival is an annual event held in Taitung, Taiwan, attracting balloon enthusiasts from around the world. This festival features colorful hot air balloons of various shapes and sizes, creating a stunning visual spectacle in the sky. Visitors can enjoy balloon rides, watch balloon competitions, and participate in various activities and performances.

• Hot Air Balloon Rides: The International Balloon Festival offers visitors the opportunity to take hot air balloon rides and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.
• Balloon Night Glow: The Balloon Night Glow is a mesmerizing event where tethered balloons are illuminated in sync with music. The colorful glow of the balloons creates a magical atmosphere.
• Balloon Competitions: Balloon competitions, such as precision flying and target dropping, are held during the festival. Visitors can watch skilled pilots showcase their flying skills and compete for prizes.
• Food and Entertainment: The International Balloon Festival offers a wide range of food stalls and entertainment options. Visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and enjoy live performances by musicians and artists.

Section 6: Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival

The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is a unique and enchanting event that takes place in the Pingxi District of New Taipei City. It is celebrated during the Lantern Festival and is known for its large-scale release of sky lanterns. Participants write their wishes or prayers on the lanterns before releasing them, symbolizing the release of their dreams and hopes into the sky.

• Sky Lantern Release: The highlight of the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is the release of thousands of sky lanterns. Participants write their wishes on the lanterns and release them into the night sky, creating a breathtaking sight.
• Wishing Tree: The Wishing Tree is a popular attraction during the festival. Visitors can write their wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on the tree, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Street Performances: Street performances, including traditional music and dance, entertain visitors during the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival. The lively performances add to the festive spirit of the event.
• Local Cuisine: The festival offers a variety of local delicacies, allowing visitors to sample traditional Taiwanese food while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Section 7: Keelung Ghost Festival

The Keelung Ghost Festival, also known as the Zhongyuan Festival, is an annual event held in Keelung City to honor the spirits of the deceased. It is believed that during this time, the gates of the afterlife are open, allowing spirits to roam freely in the human realm. The festival features elaborate ceremonies, street processions, and various performances.

• Burning Ghost Money: Burning ghost money is a common practice during the Keelung Ghost Festival. It is believed that by burning paper money, the spirits of the deceased will receive these offerings and be provided for in the afterlife.
• Street Processions: Colorful street processions take place during the festival, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and theatrical shows. The processions attract large crowds and create a lively atmosphere.
• Banquet for the Spirits: Families prepare elaborate banquets for their ancestors and deceased loved ones during the festival. These banquets are filled with a variety of food and offerings.
• Street Food Stalls: Street food stalls offering a wide range of local delicacies can be found during the Keelung Ghost Festival. Visitors can sample delicious snacks while experiencing the festival’s vibrant ambiance.

Section 8: Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. It is a time to pay respects to the elderly and enjoy outdoor activities. The festival is associated with the number nine, which is considered lucky in Chinese culture.

• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The Double Ninth Festival is a popular time for hiking and outdoor activities. Many people climb mountains or visit scenic spots to enjoy the autumn foliage and appreciate the beauty of nature.
• Chrysanthemum Display: Chrysanthemums are the traditional flower of the Double Ninth Festival. Many parks and gardens organize chrysanthemum displays, showcasing different varieties and arrangements of these beautiful flowers.
• Drinking Chrysanthemum Tea: Drinking chrysanthemum tea is a common practice during the Double Ninth Festival. It is believed to have medicinal properties and is consumed to ward off evil spirits and promote good health.
• Flying Kites: Flying kites is a popular activity during the festival, especially for children. Colorful kites fill the sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Section 9: Pigs of God Festival

The Pigs of God Festival, also known as Zhusheng Festival, is a unique event celebrated in the Beigang Township of Yunlin County. It is held to honor the deity Zhusheng Niangniang, who is believed to protect the local community. The festival involves the display and parading of large pig-shaped lanterns.

• Giant Pig Lanterns: The Pigs of God Festival is famous for its giant pig-shaped lanterns, which are meticulously crafted and decorated. These lanterns can reach heights of up to 30 meters and are paraded through the streets during the festival.
• Religious Ceremonies: Various religious ceremonies take place during the festival to pay homage to Zhusheng Niangniang. These ceremonies include processions, temple rituals, and performances by traditional opera troupes.
• Night Market: A lively night market is set up during the Pigs of God Festival, offering a wide variety of local snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can explore the market and sample delicious Taiwanese street food.
• Fireworks Display: The festival culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and creating a festive atmosphere.

Section 10: Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival

The Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival, also known as Yanshui Firework Festival, is an exhilarating event held in Tainan City. It is considered one of the most dangerous festivals in the world and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The festival involves the launching of thousands of fireworks in all directions.

• Beehive Fireworks: The highlight of the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival is the beehive fireworks. These are large clusters of rockets mounted on wooden frames that are set off simultaneously, creating a mesmerizing display of exploding fireworks.
• Protective Gear: Participants wear thick clothing and helmets to protect themselves from the fireworks. It is believed that being hit by the fireworks brings good luck and blessings.
• Firecracker Parade: Before the beehive fireworks are launched, a firecracker parade takes place, featuring dragon and lion dances, drumming, and traditional performances. The parade winds its way through the streets, accompanied by the sound of firecrackers.
• Street Food Stalls: Street food stalls offering a variety of snacks and drinks can be found during the festival. Visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine while experiencing the excitement of the event.

Section 11: Lantern Floating Festival

The Lantern Floating Festival, also known as the Water Lantern Festival, is a beautiful and serene event held in various locations across Taiwan. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month and involves the release of lanterns onto bodies of water, symbolizing the release of worries and prayers.

• Lantern Floating: Participants write their wishes or prayers on lanterns before releasing them onto rivers, lakes, or the sea. The lanterns create a mesmerizing sight as they float on the water, illuminating the surroundings.
• Cultural Performances: The Lantern Floating Festival often features cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and storytelling. These performances showcase Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
• Vegetarian Food Stalls: Many Lantern Floating Festivals are associated with vegetarianism, and visitors can find a variety of vegetarian food stalls offering delicious plant-based dishes.
• Prayer Ceremonies: Prayer ceremonies are held during the festival, allowing participants to pay their respects to ancestors and seek blessings for the year ahead.

Section 12: References

– Lunar New Year: taiwan.net.tw
– Lantern Festival: taiwantravelmap.com
– Dragon Boat Festival: taiwan.gov.tw
– Mid-Autumn Festival: travel.taiwannews.com.tw
– International Balloon Festival: eventaiwan.tw
– Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival: taiwannews.com.tw
– Keelung Ghost Festival: keelung-forum.com
– Double Ninth Festival: taiwantoday.tw
– Pigs of God Festival: taiwan-panorama.com
– Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival: taiwannews.com.tw
– Lantern Floating Festival: taiwan.net.tw