Events & Festivals
Taiwan knows how to throw a party—from lantern-lit skies to dragon boat races and vibrant street parades. Here's a month-by-month look at some of the must-experience festivals and events that bring Taiwanese culture to life.
🧧 Lunar New Year (January/February)
What: The most important holiday of the year! Family reunions, red envelopes, temple visits, and firecrackers.
Where: All over Taiwan, but Dihua Street in Taipei gets especially festive.
WRUGoing Tip: Book early—many businesses close, and trains sell out fast.
🏮 Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (February)
What: Thousands of glowing lanterns float into the night sky.
Where: Pingxi District, New Taipei City.
Vibe: Magical. Each lantern carries a handwritten wish.
Bucket List? Definitely.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Season (March–April)
What: Taiwan’s version of hanami! Parks and mountains bloom in soft pinks.
Where: Alishan, Yangmingshan, Wuling Farm.
Perfect for: Nature lovers and photo chasers.
🐉 Dragon Boat Festival (June)
What: Dragon boat races, sticky rice dumplings (zongzi), and riverfront energy.
Where: Keelung, Tamsui, and Kaohsiung have major races.
Why go: It’s action-packed and delicious.
🎇 Taipei Summer Festival (July–August)
What: Music, food, fireworks, and outdoor events.
Where: Across Taipei—night markets glow extra bright.
Vibe: Young, fun, and full of street snacks.
🥮 Mid-Autumn Festival (September)
What: Mooncakes, lanterns, and moon-gazing with friends and family.
Where: Everywhere! Local parks fill with lanterns.
Try This: Taiwanese-style BBQ with a view of the full moon.
🎭 Taipei Arts Festival (August–September)
What: Modern and traditional performances in theater, dance, and music.
Where: Taipei theaters and cultural centers.
Perfect for: Culture lovers and art seekers.
🎆 Taiwan National Day (October 10)
What: Parades, performances, and fireworks to celebrate the founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Where: Taipei hosts the biggest show.
Tip: Catch the presidential speech and flyovers in front of the Presidential Office.
🌈 Taiwan Pride (October)
What: One of Asia’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride events—colorful, joyful, and powerful.
Where: Taipei.
Vibe: Inclusive, inspiring, and one big love fest.
🎅 Christmas & New Year’s Eve (December)
What: Not a traditional holiday, but cities light up with decorations, and Taipei 101 hosts one of Asia’s biggest NYE fireworks shows.
Where: Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung.
Why Go: Ring in the New Year with fireworks and rooftop views.
🌟 WRUGoing Tip:
Taiwan’s festivals are deeply tied to the lunar calendar—dates may shift each year, so check before you book. But whatever time you visit, there’s bound to be something to celebrate.
