The 2025 Taiwan Lantern Festival is set to illuminate Taoyuan from February 7 to February 23, featuring spectacular displays and engaging activities, with the main lantern show officially launching on February 12.
This year, the festival will showcase over 300 exhibits across two major exhibition areas: the "Main Lantern Exhibition Area" and the "Light Play Area." The main exhibition, built around the concept of a baseball field, will feature an impressive 18-meter high primary lantern inspired by the popular Pokémon character, Pikachu, alongside various technological innovations and interactive experiences.
Located directly outside the A18 High-Speed Rail Taoyuan Station, the festival's venue is artistically themed after baseball, symbolizing Taoyuan's significance as both a center for baseball culture and international transportation. Visitors will be treated to not just one main lantern but also two large secondary lanterns, along with blends of crafts, bamboo artistry, and traditional skill works. Those planning to visit advised to study the layout and mark their must-see spots, as most attractions lie within a 5 to 10-minute walk from the A19 Taoyuan Sports Park station.
The atmosphere of the festival is enhanced by various engaging activities; attendees can enjoy free Pikachu cards and stickers, or purchase small Pokémon-themed decorations for NT$50, among other merchandise.
On the opening day, Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, celebrated the festival alongside ambassadors from Belize and St. Kitts and Nevis. He utilized social media to express the joy of celebrating the Lantern Festival, noting, "Rain or shine, we gather to light up our friendships with our diplomatic partners." The rain during the event was not seen as a detriment but was likened to the enduring friendship between Taiwan and its allies, encapsulated by the local saying, "遇水則發," which translates to "Encountering water brings prosperity."
This festival also includes the newly themed "Global Lantern Zone," showcasing notable lanterns from Taiwan's diplomatic allies, enriching the diversity displayed at the festival. Countries like Belize, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Japan will contribute specialized lantern artworks, highlighting global connectivity and friendship through the art of light.
Wu elaborated on the significance of the artwork, stating, "From the futuristic designs of light artwork to the delicate traditional crafts, the 2025 Taoyuan Lantern Festival is the perfect opportunity for families and friends to experience the beauty of cultural exchanges. Together, we can embrace our diversities and celebrate our shared values through this vibrant celebration of light and friendship."
Notably, last year, Taoyuan signed a sister city agreement with Belize's Orange Walk Town, which will be represented at the festival. Taoyuan Mayor Chang Shan-cheng, along with Orange Walk Town's Mayor Ladrick Sheppard, ceremonially lit lanterns together, reinforcing the importance of city exchanges.
With its blend of tradition and innovation, the 2025 Taiwan Lantern Festival promises not just to be an artistic spectacle, but also to serve as a bridge for cultural dialogue and international friendship, inviting patrons and families to schedule time for this enchanting event.