TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 2026 Taipei Lantern Festival (台北燈節) dazzled spectators on its grand opening at the Taipei Expo Park (花博公園) and Ximending (西門展區) on Wednesday (Feb. 25). Celebrating a new format, the festival features the iconic Optimus Prime (柯博文) at the Taipei Expo Park zone as its main lantern, marking the first time the event adopts a "Two Zones, Two IPs" approach.
Organizers illuminated the 10-meter-tall Optimus Prime lantern on Wednesday evening, captivating audiences with smoke effects and over 40 lights. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) highlighted the festival's dual-zone setup, showcasing the POP MART theme at Ximending and the Transformers-themed main lantern at the Taipei Expo Park. "This year, we have created two zones, combining the globally recognized Transformers," Chiang said.
Thirteen countries and cities are participating, transforming the Taipei Expo Park into an "International Village." The display includes unique bear mascots representing Taipei's 12 districts and lanterns from 13 international sister cities. The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT, 美國在台協會) joined the festival for the first time, with AIT Director Raymond F. Greene emphasizing shared values and a friendly partnership with Taiwan.
Mayor Chiang noted the festival's role in highlighting the longstanding friendship between Taipei and the U.S. "The festival not only lights up the night sky but also illuminates the deep and enduring friendship between Taipei and the U.S., showcasing Taipei's diverse charm," Chiang said. The festival's innovative format and international participation underscore Taipei's cultural vibrancy and global connections.