TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Hsinchu City will host its International Kite Festival (新竹市國際風箏節) from Oct. 3 to 5 at Hsinchu Harbor (新竹漁港), featuring space-themed displays that highlight Taiwan's technology capital. The festival, themed "Kites Dominate the Galaxy" (箏霸星際), showcases the city's role as Taiwan's space technology development hub. Organizers promise a stunning array of cosmic-inspired kites designed to captivate visitors.
Acting Mayor Andy Chiu (邱臣遠) announced the festival lineup during a press event Wednesday (Sept. 25), emphasizing the space-themed showcase. International teams will present spectacular displays, including a French team's 49-foot (15-meter) "Star Trek Enterprise" kite and an Italian team's 82-foot (25-meter) alien kite. The competing displays will create a dramatic "space vs. alien" aerial spectacle above the harbor.
Festival organizers will extend hours until 8 p.m. on Friday (Oct. 4) and Saturday (Oct. 5) to showcase illuminated kites in evening displays. The nighttime feature, which debuted last year to enthusiastic public response, has prompted many families to book multi-day accommodations in Hsinchu. Visitors are planning two- or three-day experiences to fully enjoy the extended festival schedule.
The festival combines artistic creativity with technological innovation to deliver what organizers describe as a futuristic flight experience. This unique blend aims to attract diverse audiences seeking to witness the intersection of art and technology. The event underscores Hsinchu's reputation as both a cultural destination and Taiwan's premier technology hub. ◼