In Taiwan, welcoming the new year is a magical and luminous experience, as thousands of glowing lanterns are released into the night sky to symbolize hope, good fortune, and prosperity. The Taiwan Lantern Festival and the act of lighting sky lanterns have become iconic ways to celebrate the New Year and other important occasions. These lanterns, often inscribed with wishes, prayers, or messages of hope, float up into the sky, carrying the aspirations of the people into the heavens.

In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of lighting lanterns in Taiwan, how this beautiful tradition is celebrated, and the deeper meanings behind releasing lanterns as a symbol of prosperity and renewal.

The Origins of Sky Lanterns in Taiwan

The practice of lighting sky lanterns, known as "Tian Deng" (天灯) in Mandarin, dates back centuries to the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD) in China. Initially, these lanterns were used as military signals, helping armies communicate across distances. However, as time passed, sky lanterns took on more spiritual and symbolic meanings, particularly in connection to Buddhism and Taoism. They became a way for people to send their prayers and hopes to the gods above.

The Role of Sky Lanterns in Taiwanese Culture

In Taiwan, the tradition of lighting sky lanterns is especially prominent during the Lantern Festival, which marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. The most famous sky lantern event takes place in the small town of Pingxi, where thousands of people gather to release lanterns into the sky, creating a breathtaking display of lights that symbolize peace, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Over the years, lighting sky lanterns has become more than just a festival activity. It’s a popular way for people to express their hopes for prosperity, health, and happiness, not only during the New Year but also for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions.

The Symbolism of Lanterns in Taiwanese Tradition

Lanterns, especially those released during the New Year and the Lantern Festival, hold deep cultural and spiritual significance in Taiwanese society. The lantern’s soft, glowing light represents the elimination of darkness and negativity, while the act of releasing the lantern symbolizes letting go of past misfortunes and ushering in good fortune.

Hope and Prosperity for the New Year

The most common reason for releasing lanterns in Taiwan is to wish for prosperity, both financially and in terms of personal well-being. Many people believe that as the lanterns rise, they carry their hopes and prayers to the heavens, where the gods can see them and grant blessings. The higher the lantern rises, the better the chances of those wishes coming true.

Letting Go of Negativity

In addition to welcoming prosperity, lighting lanterns is also a way of letting go of the previous year’s struggles or misfortunes. As the lantern floats away, it’s believed to carry away bad luck and negative energy, allowing the person who released it to begin the new year with a fresh, positive outlook.

Messages of Unity and Peace

Many people who release lanterns during the Lantern Festival write messages of peace, love, and unity on them. This gesture represents the collective desire for harmony and goodwill, not just for themselves but for their communities and the world at large. During major celebrations, the act of releasing lanterns becomes a shared experience that unites people, reinforcing the belief that communal hope and cooperation bring prosperity to all.

How Lanterns Are Used to Celebrate the New Year in Taiwan

While the lighting of sky lanterns is a tradition celebrated during the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival, the process of releasing these lanterns follows a meaningful and ceremonial structure.

Preparing the Lanterns

Lanterns are usually made of thin paper attached to a wire or bamboo frame, and inside the lantern is a small flame source that heats the air and makes the lantern rise. Before releasing the lantern, participants often take time to write their wishes, prayers, and messages on its surface. Common inscriptions include phrases like “peace,” “health,” “wealth,” and “happiness.”

The act of writing down hopes and dreams is an important part of the ritual. Whether individuals are asking for personal blessings, such as success in a new business venture, or making prayers for the well-being of their families, the written messages help focus their intentions for the coming year.

The Release Ceremony

Once the lantern is ready, participants gather at night in open areas, often near temples, mountains, or rivers, where the release can be done safely. As the lanterns are lit, the warm glow spreads across the scene, creating a serene atmosphere filled with anticipation and hope.

With families, friends, and communities together, they often countdown to the moment of release, celebrating together as the first lanterns float into the night sky. The sight of thousands of glowing lanterns rising up is an awe-inspiring moment that reinforces the feelings of hope and togetherness.

Experiencing the Lantern Festival

The Taiwan Lantern Festival is not just about the sky lanterns; it features various activities, including lantern displays, performances, food stalls, and cultural exhibits. The festival showcases local artists and traditions, making it an essential part of Taiwanese culture.

For those visiting Taiwan during the Lantern Festival, it’s an unforgettable experience. The sight of colorful lanterns illuminating the night sky, coupled with the joyful sounds of celebration, leaves a lasting impression and offers a glimpse into the heart of Taiwanese culture.

Conclusion

Lighting up lanterns in Taiwan during the New Year is a vibrant tradition filled with meaning and symbolism. It’s a moment when individuals come together to share their hopes and dreams for the future, while letting go of past misfortunes. The act of releasing these glowing symbols of light transforms the night sky into a canvas of dreams, fostering a sense of community, unity, and shared aspirations. As lanterns rise into the sky, they carry with them the spirit of the people and the promise of prosperity for the new year.