The 2025 Taipei Lantern Festival officially began on 2 February 2025, with a grand opening ceremony in Ximending that attracted a large crowd despite light rain.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an presided over the event and participated in the ceremonial lighting of the festival’s main lantern, the 13-metre-tall Lucky Snake Dou Dou.
The lantern’s playful design, featuring oversized eyes and a sticking-out tongue, symbolises energy, vitality, and good fortune.
The festival, running until 16 February, showcases a fusion of traditional culture and contemporary art, with light installations, performances, and exhibits across four themed zones.
It operates daily from 17:00 to 22:00, creating a festive evening atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the Lunar New Year. Mayor Chiang encouraged attendees to explore the various zones and marvel at the intricate lantern displays crafted by local and international artists.
Mayor Chiang expressed optimism about the year ahead, noting that the light rain during the opening ceremony symbolised prosperity.
“Water brings prosperity,” he said, adding that the event marks the beginning of a year filled with success and happiness.
Chiang also made a light-hearted pun on the animals Snake, Horse, Dragon, and Crane, playfully saying, “Everything is good,” referring to good fortune and well-being.
The festival’s highlights include the Taipei Gramophone installation by renowned musician Lim Giong and The Tree Awaiting Harvest by TERU, both internationally recognised contributors to the artistic programming.
Visitors can also explore displays from Taipei’s international partner cities, reflecting the city’s global cultural ties.
Mayor Chiang, after lighting the main lantern, toured the exhibition zone along Zhonghua Road, where he admired the combination of traditional lantern craftsmanship and modern artistic techniques.
The immersive displays, street performances, and music-themed installations provide an engaging and dynamic experience for festivalgoers.
The Taipei City Government’s Department of Information and Tourism emphasised the importance of using public transport to reach the festival grounds easily.
The event is accessible via Metro Taipei’s Beimen Station, Ximen Station, Taipei Main Station, and Metro Taoyuan’s A1 Station. Organisers encourage visitors to plan their trips to enjoy the festival’s diverse attractions.
For more information on the festival’s program, including details about performances and nearby attractions, visitors can check the official festival website at 2025lanternfestival.travel.taipei.
The 2025 Taipei Lantern Festival reflects a continued effort by the Taipei City Government to celebrate cultural heritage while embracing modern artistic innovation.
With the combination of traditional lantern designs, contemporary installations, and festive performances, the event serves as both a community celebration and an international cultural showcase.
