Taiwan Lantern Festival & Pingxi Sky Lanterns: A Complete Guide

The 15th day of the first lunar month marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. In Taiwan, it is celebrated with fire, light, and massive crowds. The Lantern Festival is actually comprised of several different phenomenal events across the island, but the two most internationally renowned are the Taiwan Lantern Festival and the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival.

Here is your guide to experiencing these magical nights.

The Taiwan Lantern Festival (台灣燈會)

This is a massive, high-tech, government-sponsored event that rotates to a different city in Taiwan every year. It usually lasts for about two weeks in February or early March.

• What to Expect: Think of it as a World Expo made entirely of light. There is a towering main lantern (usually depicting the zodiac animal of the year) that features a laser and music show every 30 minutes.
• The Vibe: It is incredibly modern. You will see giant robotic dragons, drone shows forming shapes in the sky, and beautifully illuminated traditional floats created by local temples and schools.
• Tip: Download the official festival map app before you go, as the festival grounds are often the size of several football fields.

The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (平溪天燈節)

If you have ever seen a photo of thousands of glowing paper lanterns floating into the night sky, it was likely taken here. Held in a small, nostalgic coal-mining town nestled in the mountains near Taipei, this is a deeply romantic and spiritual experience.

• The Tradition: Historically, releasing sky lanterns was a way for villagers to signal to their families that they were safe after fleeing from bandits. Today, people write their wishes—for health, wealth, love, or good grades—on the four sides of the paper lantern before setting it ablaze and watching it drift into the heavens.
• How to Participate: You can buy a lantern from one of the many shops lining the old railway tracks. Each color represents a different type of wish (e.g., Red for health, Yellow for wealth, Pink for romance).
• Environmental Note: Be aware that environmental concerns exist. If you want to be sustainable, seek out vendors selling "eco-friendly lanterns" that burn completely in the sky without leaving wire or paper debris in the mountains.

Logistics: Surviving the Crowds

1. Public Transport is Mandatory: Do not even try to drive or take a taxi to Pingxi during the festival. Roads are blocked off for miles. Take the train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang, and then transfer to the Pingxi Line. Better yet, book a spot on official shuttle buses departing from Taipei Zoo MRT station.
2. Arrive Early: The main mass-release event happens in the evening, but you must arrive by early afternoon to secure your release tickets and a good viewing spot.
3. Dress Warmly: Pingxi is in the mountains and it usually drizzles in February. Bring a warm, waterproof jacket.

The Lantern Festival is the perfect way to wrap up the Lunar New Year. Make your wish, release your lantern, and watch the sky fill with hope.