New Taipei City | Pingxi Shifen Old Street Sky Lantern Festival | Hu Family Sky Lantern Festival

Must Do Experiences

• Write your wish on a four-color sky lantern with a brush before releasing it into the sky

• Take memorable photos with your lantern before and during the release

• Stroll through Shifen Old Street and soak in the magical lantern-filled atmosphere

• Explore nearby Shifen Waterfall and the scenic railroad for a complete day trip

Hidden Gems

• Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful lantern release

• Try the local Shifen fen noodles, a famous regional snack found along the old street

• Explore the nearby Shifen Old Street Night Market for unique souvenirs and street food

What Makes it Special

• Four-color sky lanterns symbolize wishes for health, wealth, love, and happiness

• Interactive experience where you personally write and release your own wish lantern

• Historic cultural tradition dating back over a century in the Pingxi District

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The festival season runs from March to October, with peak activity during summer months. Evening visits offer the most spectacular views as lanterns light up the night sky, while weekdays provide a more relaxed atmosphere.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the moment your lantern takes flight against the darkening sky for dramatic photos

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture multiple lanterns rising together

• Get close-up shots of your handwritten wishes on the colorful lantern before release

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Write your wishes clearly and with positive intentions as the lantern carries them to the heavens Respect the release process - wait for staff guidance before letting go of your lantern The four colors each represent different blessings - consider what wishes matter most to you

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Shifen Sky Lantern Festival (March-October) - monthly lantern release events

• Chinese New Year celebrations with special lantern decorations and performances

• Mid-Autumn Festival with enhanced lantern lighting ceremonies

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Follow staff instructions when handling and releasing lanterns to ensure safety

• Keep children and elderly visitors away from open flames during the lighting process

• Be mindful of other visitors when releasing your lantern to avoid collisions