You’ve probably seen the pictures: A sky of bright displays in the shape of animals and flowers, large yet delicate creations casting a symphony of light across the night. Marking the first full moon of the Lunar New Year, The Taiwan Lantern Festival is a luminous celebration that has enchanted locals and visitors since its inception in 1990.
Tradition vs now
Originally featuring traditional paper lantern art that symbolised the release of the old and the welcoming of the new, the festival has evolved to blend elaborate light sculptures with newer technology. Together, these glowing artworks showcase Taiwan’s rich culture. The festival is hosted in a different city each year, spreading the celebrations beyond one place and giving each region a chance to showcase its culture and attractions.
This year, the festival returned to Taoyuan from 12 to 23 February; it returned to this northern city after nine years. Thanks to a trip hosted by Tourism Taiwan, a group of us from Malaysia got to experience the magic—many for the first time, myself included. I’ve always been fascinated by how light can change a space, and I was particularly excited to be a part of this celebration. As it turned out, the festival wasn’t just about the lights.
Taoyuan, the chosen city
Taoyuan, Taiwan’s gateway city, was chosen for this symbolic significance. The theme, ‘Light Connect All,’ was all about bringing families together and celebrating local culture through these dazzling light displays. It encompassed five interactive lantern zones designed to spark creativity and make the experience exciting for everyone, old and young.
Taoyuan was chosen as the host not only due to its location but also its rich cultural tapestry and scenic beauty. With its many ponds and parks, the city beautifully balances modern growth with natural beauty, which was used as inspiration for a lot of the installations. The city’s commitment to innovation and sustainability was also evident throughout the festival, with eco-friendly designs and cutting-edge technology.
A standout centrepiece this year was the ‘Infinite Paradise’ main lantern, designed by artist Akibo Lee. Lee drew inspiration for his creation from the playful loops of roller coasters and water slides he sees at amusement parks, incorporating infinity symbols, spheres, and geometric shapes. Accompanied by a musical composition by Chang Ching-Shan, performed by the Budapest Symphony Orchestra, the entire display delivered a mesmerising audio-visual experience.
More than meets the eye
But the festival was more than just a spectacle. It also felt like a meeting place for entrepreneurs and storytellers. Beyond the displays, the festival was a testament to community spirit and collaboration. Year after year, the Lantern Festival has brought artists, artisans, tech enthusiasts, and volunteers together to create an experience that resonates with both tradition and modernity.
This year was no different. Food and drink booths, some run by generation-old mom-and-pop businesses, offered traditional Taiwanese and Japanese-influenced delicacies, while performances, traditional and contemporary, highlighted the island’s diverse artistry. This shared enthusiasm and effort not only illuminates the city but also strengthens communal bonds and truly showcases the warmth and hospitality of Taoyuan’s residents.
Bringing people together
From what I saw, the true magic of the Lantern Festival lies in how it brings people together. Young children wander through the glowing displays in awe, and couples stroll lovingly hand-in-hand. Friends, old and new (like our group from Kuala Lumpur), snapped endless photos and videos for Instagram, capturing the pulsing lights and uncovering stories of local heritage and culture. It’s a time for camaraderie, shared experiences, and forging connections that last long after the lanterns have been packed away.
There’s something undeniably enchanting about the Taiwan Lantern Festival that’s worth experiencing at least once. In 2026, it is set to illuminate Chiayi, promising another celebration that will continue to light up the sky and also the hearts of all who attend.
All images courtesy of Tourism Taiwan unless stated otherwise.
