TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 2026 New Taipei Lantern Festival concluded on Sunday (March 8) after attracting over 4.5 million visitors to New Taipei Metropolitan Park (新北大都會公園) in Sanchong District. The event, one of northern Taiwan's largest lantern festivals, drew crowds with immersive sound and light experiences over its multi-day run. Organizers celebrated the festival's success as it wrapped up its final evening of programming.
This year's festival, themed "Galloping Horses, New Taipei Hi Light" (勁馬奔騰 新北Hi Light), featured a 15-meter-tall (49-foot-tall) main lantern with a movable structure, light projections, and smoke effects. The lantern, inspired by a fairy tale, symbolized a foal's transformation and journey through visual and auditory displays. Organizers designed the festival around a storyline connecting 16 themed lantern zones and eight special activities throughout the park.
The festival debuted a collaboration with local temples to launch a blessing train, enhancing the cultural experience for visitors seeking traditional elements alongside modern displays. For the first time, popular South Korean characters "Line Dog" (線條小狗) by MoonlabStudio appeared at the event, creating a themed lantern area that drew significant attention. The addition quickly became a favorite photo spot, attracting fans and families seeking unique photo opportunities at the festival grounds throughout its run.
The festival introduced a limited-edition Year of the Horse lantern called "Horses Turn Around" (好事轉來), designed as a carousel for visitors to enjoy as part of the zodiac-themed celebrations. Organizers scheduled daily performances featuring children's theater, magic shows, and international percussion bands, transforming the festival into a nighttime carnival atmosphere. These activities ensured the event offered vibrant entertainment beyond traditional lantern displays, drawing families and visitors throughout its multi-day programming schedule.
