By Monsi Serrano
TAOYUAN, TAIWAN – Not even the heavy rain could dim the magic of the 2025 Taiwan Lantern Festival, as thousands gathered near the Taiwan High-Speed Rail Taoyuan Station to witness a mesmerizing fusion of tradition and innovation.
Graced by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, the grand Lantern Parade for the Year of the Snake showcased stunning light installations, cultural performances, and state-of-the-art technology that turned the city into a glowing wonderland.
Taiwanese locals and international tourists alike stood in awe as the festival’s centerpiece, a massive infinity-loop lantern installation, bathed the night sky in radiant hues.
This iconic structure, aptly named “Paradise Taiwan: Waves of Wonder,” embodied the country’s forward-thinking spirit while paying homage to its deep-rooted traditions.
The infinity symbol, illuminated with intricate floral patterns, represented the boundless beauty and energy of Taiwan’s culture.
Scattered across the festival grounds were larger-than-life lanterns, each telling its own mythical tale. A majestic dragon lantern, its vibrant scales shimmering in the rain, stood as a symbol of strength and wisdom. Nearby, a giant guardian figure with an adorable pig companion captured the hearts of visitors, exuding a warm and playful energy that contrasted beautifully with its towering presence.
The festival wasn’t just about visuals—it was an immersive experience. Streets lined with LED-lit trees, glowing red lanterns swaying in the wind, and synchronized light shows created a dreamlike atmosphere, making every turn feel like stepping into a fairytale.
Among the invited guests were seven Filipino journalists, given the opportunity to cover and experience this grand celebration thanks to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines and the Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) Bangkok Office.
The Filipino media group witnessed not just the dazzling lantern displays but also how Taiwan’s government seamlessly integrates culture, tourism, and technology to attract visitors from all over the world.
Through its “Taiwan – Waves of Wonder” campaign, the country positions itself as an exciting travel destination where modern marvels meet cultural heritage.
Despite the rain, almost 700,000 (to be exact, 693,991) visitors flocked to the festival, proving that Taiwan’s love for its traditions—and its commitment to offering a world-class tourism experience—shines brighter than any storm.
