TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Lunar New Year may be coming to a close, but those in Taiwan can still look forward to celebrating the Lantern Festival. In Kaohsiung, organizers plan to transform the city into a vibrant spectacle for the 2026 Kaohsiung Lantern Festival (2026高雄燈會), with this year's theme being the iconic Japanese character Ultraman. Celebrating Ultraman's 60th anniversary, the event will unfold until March 1 around the city's Love River (愛河) and Pier No. 16-18 of the Kaohsiung Port (高雄港16-18號碼頭).
Visitors will encounter a myriad of Ultraman-themed attractions at the Love River Bay's main venue. The lineup includes meet-and-greet sessions with Ultraman, a captivating nighttime light show, interactive exhibitions, and pop-up stores. Organizers aim to create a dazzling celebration of this beloved character.
In line with the annual theme, this year's lanterns feature a unique Ultraman design, complete with movable joints, offering both creativity and collectible value. Elementary school, kindergarten, and special needs school students across Kaohsiung will receive these lanterns for free during the first week of school. The general public can pick up the lanterns on Feb. 27 and 28 from 4 p.m. at Kaohsiung Port Pier No. 18, with a limit of two per person.
The carnival will also offer 22 amusement rides at Kaohsiung Port Pier No. 16-18, including nine newly introduced mechanical and inflatable attractions. All rides will be free, but visitors must queue to receive a "ride ticket." The park will open from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.