10 Ways To Celebrate Taiwan Chinese New Year 2024

As the world prepares to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one, Taiwan is gearing up to celebrate one of its most significant festivals: Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. In 2024, the Taiwanese community will come together to usher in the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. If you're looking for ways to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Taiwan during Chinese New Year, here are 10 exciting ways to celebrate:

Taiwanese traditions and customs during Chinese New Year are deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. The festival is a time for families to reunite, friends to gather, and communities to come together. One of the most iconic symbols of Chinese New Year is the lion dance, which is performed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

1. Attend a Lion Dance Performance

Witness the majestic lion dance performances that take place throughout Taiwan during Chinese New Year. These performances are a highlight of the festival and are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. You can catch a performance at various locations, including temples, streets, and shopping malls.

When to Watch:

Lion dance performances usually take place on the first day of Chinese New Year and continue throughout the festival period. Be sure to check local event listings for performance schedules.

2. Visit a Temple or Shrine

Temples and shrines are an integral part of Taiwanese culture, and during Chinese New Year, they are bustling with activity. Visit the famous Longshan Temple in Taipei or the Confucius Temple in Tainan to experience the vibrant atmosphere and participate in traditional rituals.

Temple Etiquette:

When visiting temples, remember to dress modestly, remove your shoes when required, and respect the tranquility of the surroundings.

3. Try Traditional Foods

Chinese New Year is a time for indulging in traditional Taiwanese cuisine, which is a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous flavors. Be sure to try popular dishes like stir-fried vegetables, braised pork belly, and steamed fish.

Taiwanese New Year's Eve Dinner:

Join a local family for a traditional New Year's Eve dinner, which typically features a variety of dishes symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

4. Participate in Traditional Activities

Engage in traditional Taiwanese activities, such as making dumplings, creating couplets, and giving red envelopes filled with money to children. These activities are an integral part of Chinese New Year celebrations.

DIY Couplets:

Create your own couplets, which are traditional Taiwanese poems that express good wishes and auspicious messages.

5. Explore Night Markets

Taiwan's night markets are a sensory delight, and during Chinese New Year, they are even more vibrant and bustling. Visit the famous Shilin Night Market in Taipei or the Raohe Street Night Market in Kaohsiung to try local street food, buy souvenirs, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Night Market Tips:

Arrive early to avoid crowds, try a variety of street food, and don't forget to bargain for souvenirs.

6. Attend a Chinese New Year Parade

Many Taiwanese cities host Chinese New Year parades, which feature elaborate floats, lion dances, and cultural performances. Join the festivities in Taipei, Kaohsiung, or Tainan to experience the vibrant energy of the parade.

Best Viewing Spots:

Secure a spot along the parade route early to get the best views of the festivities.

7. Give Red Envelopes

Giving red envelopes filled with money to children and loved ones is a traditional Taiwanese custom during Chinese New Year. This gesture symbolizes good luck and prosperity.

Red Envelope Etiquette:

When giving red envelopes, use both hands, and make sure the amount is an even number, as odd numbers are considered unlucky.

8. Visit a Flower Market

Taiwan's flower markets are a treat for the senses, and during Chinese New Year, they are even more vibrant. Visit the Taipei Flower Market or the Kaohsiung Flower Market to see the stunning displays of flowers, plants, and trees.

Best Time to Visit:

Visit the flower markets early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the flowers at their freshest.

9. Learn a Traditional Craft

Engage in traditional Taiwanese crafts, such as paper cutting, lantern making, or calligraphy. These activities are a great way to learn about Taiwanese culture and take home a unique souvenir.

Workshops and Classes:

Join a workshop or class to learn a traditional craft from a local expert.

10. Watch the Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival marks the final day of Chinese New Year celebrations in Taiwan. Join the festivities in Taipei or Kaohsiung to see the stunning lantern displays and enjoy traditional performances.

Lantern Festival Tips:

Arrive early to secure a spot, bring a camera to capture the stunning displays, and enjoy the traditional performances.

As the Chinese New Year celebrations come to a close, Taiwan is left with a sense of renewal and hope for the future. The Year of the Dragon promises to be a year of good fortune and prosperity, and by participating in these 10 activities, you'll be able to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Taiwan during this special time.

In conclusion, Chinese New Year in Taiwan is a time for joy, celebration, and connection with the local culture. Whether you're interested in trying traditional foods, attending a lion dance performance, or visiting a temple, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So come and join the festivities, and let the spirit of the dragon guide you through an unforgettable adventure in Taiwan.

If you're planning to visit Taiwan during Chinese New Year, don't forget to:

Book your accommodations and flights in advance to avoid the crowds. Pack warm clothing for the winter weather. Learn some basic Taiwanese phrases to interact with locals. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or participating in cultural activities. Try as many traditional foods as you can – your taste buds will thank you!

What is the most important tradition during Chinese New Year in Taiwan?

The most important tradition during Chinese New Year in Taiwan is the reunion dinner, which takes place on the eve of the New Year. This is a time for families to come together and share a meal, symbolizing unity and good fortune.

What is the significance of the lion dance during Chinese New Year in Taiwan?

The lion dance is a traditional performance that takes place during Chinese New Year in Taiwan. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity. The dance is typically performed by two people dressed in lion costumes, who mimic the movements of a lion to the beat of drums and cymbals.

What is the best way to experience Taiwanese culture during Chinese New Year?

The best way to experience Taiwanese culture during Chinese New Year is to participate in traditional activities, such as making dumplings, creating couplets, and giving red envelopes. You can also visit temples, night markets, and flower markets to soak up the festive atmosphere.