HSINCHU (TVBS News) — The 2025 Hsinchu Lantern Festival will light up the city until Feb. 16. The festival features the main lantern, "Colorful Snake" (蛇彩繽紛), and six creative light installations around the Hsinchu Moat, inviting people nationwide to experience the unique charm of light and art.
Acting Hsinchu Mayor Chiu Chen-yuan (邱臣遠) inaugurated the festival at the city's East Gate (東門城) on Jan. 25, and was joined by artists and guests. He highlighted the city's tradition of holding lantern festivals during the Lunar New Year, transforming Hsinchu into a whimsical playground for families with a blend of childhood wonder and technology. The main lantern, a collaboration between designer Shen Yu-wei (沈育緯) and local artist Liu Pao-chih (劉保志), showcases a geometric design with vibrant colors.
Chiu announced a Lantern Festival market at the "Moat Park" from Friday to Sunday, featuring over 30 stalls. The Lantern Festival concert will take place at 5 p.m. on Sunday at Hsinchu Train Station Plaza, with several additional performances from different artists. Visitors can also receive the limited "Niu Niu Snake" (妞妞蛇) lanterns, incorporating local landmarks and modern technology, on Feb. 8 and Feb. 9 from 2 p.m.
The City Marketing Department (城銷處) noted that several activities, including DIY workshops and lantern painting, will enhance the festival experience. These events aim to bring hope and happiness to citizens and invite everyone to join the festivities in welcoming the Year of the Snake.