TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City will illuminate the night sky on Wednesday (Dec. 31) with the "Shining New Taipei 1314 River Fireworks" event. The spectacle, crafted by the French team Groupe F, begins at 8:26 p.m. and features 35,520 fireworks over a span of 13 minutes and 14 seconds in Tamsui (淡水) and Bali (八里) districts.
Sung Te-jen (宋德仁), director of the Water Resources Department, said the theme, "River of Blossoms: Winter Symphony," (萬花之河 冬之樂章) unfolds in three acts, blending flames, lights, music, and space with the grandeur of the Tamkang Bridge (淡江大橋). The department noted that the fireworks will launch both upstream and downstream, offering 10 prime viewing spots, including the Tamsui Golden Riverside Cycling Path (淡水金色水岸河濱公園) and the Tamsui Customs Wharf (淡水海關碼頭).
Cultural Affairs Bureau Director Zhang Yiyu (張䕒育) highlighted dual-stage performances at Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf (淡水漁人碼頭) and Bali's Sustainable Environment Education Center, featuring artists like Tarcy Su (蘇慧倫), Ricky Hsiao (蕭煌奇), and Power Station (動力火車). Chung Ming-shih (鍾鳴時), director of the Transportation Department, announced special bus services to manage crowds and encouraged the public to use the MRT and light rail for access.
Fang Yang-ning (方仰寧), chief of the city police, confirmed over 500 personnel will enforce security measures from 2 p.m., establishing a comprehensive "land, air, and technology" safety net to ensure the event's smooth execution. Attendees can look forward to a memorable celebration as the city rings in the New Year.