Why the Lantern Festival in Taiwan is a Stunning Experience
By Tom Nonmacher
If you're looking for a travel experience that combines culture, beauty, and affordability, allow me to introduce you to the Lantern Festival in Taiwan. Held annually on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, this festival marks the end of the New Year celebrations. But trust me when I say that it doesn't end on a quiet note. Instead, the night sky in Taiwan is illuminated with thousands of lanterns carrying hopes, dreams and wishes of the people for the year ahead. It's not just an event, it's an emotional experience that will touch your heart and leave lasting memories.
Apart from the emotional aspect, the Lantern Festival is also a visual extravaganza. Each lantern is a piece of art, intricately designed and brightly colored. The sight of these lanterns floating into the night sky against the backdrop of Taiwan's beautiful landscape is truly awe-inspiring. And here's a budget travel tip: the festival is free of charge! Yes, you read that right. You can join in the festivities and release your own lantern without paying a dime.
The festival takes place in different parts of Taiwan, each with its unique charm. Pingxi District, for example, is famous for its Sky Lantern Festival. You might remember it from the movie 'Tangled' where Rapunzel watches thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky. Yes, that's exactly how magical it is. The Yanshui District, on the other hand, hosts the Beehive Fireworks Festival where fireworks are set off in all directions, creating a spectacular display.
While the Lantern Festival itself is a major attraction, it's also an opportunity to explore Taiwan's rich culture and history. The festival is rooted in Buddhist and Taoist traditions and you will find plenty of opportunities to learn about these ancient practices. You can visit temples, engage with locals and even try your hand at making a lantern.
Lastly, no trip to Taiwan would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The Lantern Festival is also the time for Yuanxiao, or glutinous rice balls, which are a traditional delicacy during this period. Street food in Taiwan is reasonably priced, so it's an excellent opportunity to indulge your taste buds without breaking the bank.
Overall, attending the Lantern Festival in Taiwan is a stunning experience that embodies the spirit of travel - exploration, culture, beauty, and budget-friendly. It's an adventure that's worth adding to your travel bucket list. There's something incredibly fulfilling about being part of a tradition that dates back thousands of years, and the Lantern Festival offers just that opportunity. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to be enchanted by the Lantern Festival in Taiwan.