In ancient times, the Chinese believed that spirits could be seen floating under the light of the first full moon of the lunar year. To find these wandering souls, people went out into the night with torches in hand. The custom gradually evolved into a festival marked by the hanging of colorful lanterns in temples and parks. The Taipei Lantern Festival, continuing in this tradition, is held every year at CKS Memorial Hall. Festival-goers can enjoy thousands of intricately crafted lanterns, dragon and tiger dances, traditional handicrafts and performances, and dazzling temple floats. Lantern themes change annually based on the zodiac animal of the year. A perennial favorite, the three-day event attracts millions of visitors every year, making it the largest festival in all of Taiwan.

~~BACK~~