The 2025 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival will take place from February 8 to February 23 at Taichung Central Park. This year’s theme, "Snake of Happiness", symbolizes the fulfillment of wishes in the Year of the Snake. This festival is not only a visual feast but also a celebration of culture, art, and sustainability, offering a truly immersive experience!
Highlights of the Festival
The festival centers around six core themes: festive economy, light and shadow art, traditional craftsmanship, sustainable development, a joyful atmosphere, and city promotion. It features nine themed zones that reflect Taichung's vision as a happy and livable city.
Main Lantern: "Snake of Happiness"
The main lantern, inspired by the creation goddess Nüwa from Chinese mythology, is Taiwan’s first mobile performance lantern. Combining immersive theater and stunning visual effects, the lantern is 12 meters tall, 4.5 meters wide, and 20 meters long, with eight sets of dynamic effects. A spectacular show will be performed every 30 minutes, inviting visitors on a magical light-and-shadow journey.
The main lantern of this year's festival is inspired by the goddess "Nüwa" from the creation mythology. (Photo/ Taichung City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
Show Times:
- Opening Night: Saturday, February 8, 7:00 PM
- Monday to Thursday: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Themed Lantern Zones
- Urban Oasis Zone: Collaborating with local writers, this zone features water-based lanterns that tell stories of Taichung's mountains and seas, blending nature and literature beautifully.
- Delicious Delights Zone: Inspired by Taichung’s culinary delights, the zone includes a skewer corridor and water-based hot pot lanterns, offering a visual and flavorful experience.
- Dancing Snakes Zone: Celebrating the Year of the Snake, this zone brings together deities from around the world to showcase Taichung’s international charm.
- Snake-tastic Fun Zone: With whimsical and educational lanterns, this area adds humor and entertainment for all ages.
- Time Travel Zone: Explore parallel universes and uncover hidden treasures to receive blessings from Nüwa.
- Ocean Adventure Zone: Visitors embark on a journey through the beauty of the ocean, learning the importance of environmental conservation.
- Snake Tales Zone: A mesmerizing blend of light, art, and music unfolds the magical journey of the Golden Snake Prince.
- Love & Joy Zone: A romantic and heartwarming atmosphere showcasing Taichung’s local charm and hospitality.
The specially designed "Sweet Snake" mini lantern features a pink ice cream shape, symbolizing happiness and childlike fun. (Photo/ Taichung City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
Mini Lanterns & Themed Market
The specially designed "Sweet Snake" Mini Lantern, shaped like a pink ice cream cone, symbolizes happiness and playfulness, serving as a charming keepsake for visitors.
Additionally, the "Snake Market" will feature a variety of independent brands, highlighting Taichung’s creativity and energy.
The 2025 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival is more than just a visual extravaganza; it’s a celebration of culture and art. Join us under the dazzling lights to experience the warmth and allure of Taichung!
