January in Taiwan marks the eagerly anticipated strawberry season, when strawberry farms across the island open up for visitors to pick fresh strawberries.
Seasonal Activities
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
February in Taiwan is marked by the enchanting tradition of the Lantern Festival, particularly celebrated in Pingxi. It has grown from a local custom to an internationally acclaimed event, symbolizing the release of worries and the harboring of hopes.
March in Taiwan heralds the prime season for cherry blossom viewing. Across the island, from north to south, various species of cherry blossoms bloom, painting the landscapes and cities in shades of pink.
April in Taiwan sees the annual Mazu Pilgrimage, a distinctive and significant religious event celebrating Mazu, the Sea Goddess or Heavenly Mother, revered especially by fishermen and coastal communities.
May in Taiwan marks the prime season for firefly watching, as the warm transition from spring to summer sets in. During this time, the enchanting sight of fireflies can be observed in forests, by streams, and even in some urban parks.
In June, Taiwan celebrates the Dragon Boat Festival, an important tradition that commemorates the ancient patriot poet Qu Yuan. The festival has evolved into a collective sport, cultural celebration, and competition.
In July, Taiwan’s indigenous peoples celebrate the Harvest Festival, one of their most important traditional festivals to give thanks for the bountiful harvests and blessings from the gods.
In August, Taiwan celebrates Qixi Valentine’s Day, a festival brimming with romance. On this day, lovers exchange gifts as a token of their affection, with homemade chocolates being a particularly popular choice.
As September approaches in Taiwan, making mooncakes becomes an essential activity in anticipation of the Mid-Autumn Festival. This festival, significant in East Asian culture, symbolizes reunion and harvest, with mooncakes serving as its quintessential delicacy.
In October, Taiwan celebrates its National Day with spectacular fireworks displays, marking an indispensable part of the festivities for this significant holiday.
As November brings cooler weather to Taiwan, hot spring bathing becomes a popular activity. Taiwan is rich in geothermal resources, with numerous well-known hot spring areas scattered across the island, such as Beitou, Yangmingshan, Guanziling, Cingjing, and Taitung Zhiben.
The Winter Solstice in Taiwan is an important traditional festival symbolizing family reunions and warmth. On this day, it is customary for Taiwanese to eat Tangyuan, a type of round glutinous rice food representing completeness and happiness. Families either make or buy various Tangyuan, such as white, pink, or yellow, some of which are filled with sweet fillings like
