Light shows extend New Year spirit

This article was written by Rita Fang and published by the Taiwan Journal on February 10, 2006. It highlights recent Lantern Festival celebrations in Taipei, Tainan and Kaohsiung cities, which feature large-scale light shows. The three celebrations all began on February 12 and will finish on February 19, 26 and 28, respectively.

Taipei City's lantern show takes place in the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. There are 24 large dog-themed lantern sculptures. A special four-kilometer-long tunnel of light is also established between the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and the Taipei City Hall.

Tainan City's lantern show takes place at the Historic Harborside Park. It depicts a dog family of papa, mama and pub climbing a mountain slope, which symbolizes a harmonious family and society. There are also other large lantern sculptures.

Kaohsiung City's lantern show takes place in a Kaohsiung Harbor district at the mouth of the Love River. It features a thematic lantern in the shape of a gigantic white flower. There are also performing groups from home and abroad, including Japan, Thailand, Indonesia and the United States, as well as agricultural and handicraft fairs.

Every year, the Lantern Festival celebrations in Taiwan attract millions of visitors from around the island and overseas. In 2005, for example, Tainan City's lantern shows attracted more than 5 million visitors.

Here are some interesting articles to read:

• 2006 Taiwan Lantern Festival (February 2006)
• 2006 Kaohsiung Lantern Festival (February 2006)
• Flagship Events of Taiwan