President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang (翁章梁) officially opened the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival on Tuesday night, marking the start of a monthlong celebration of light, creativity, and cultural pride. Lai said the event has, for more than 30 years, developed a distinctly Taiwanese character and earned widespread international recognition.

The opening ceremony was held on the Lantern Festival Day and was presided over by President Lai, Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱), and Weng. The festival’s theme, “Illuminating Taiwan, Lighting Up Chiayi,” highlights the southern county’s growing cultural significance. Weng expressed gratitude for the clear weather and presidential support, saying, “We hope the light of Taiwan in the world can shine on Chiayi.”

Weng also introduced the “Chiayi Dream,” a zone symbolizing aspirations for local growth. “We have a dream,” he said, envisioning Chiayi as a place where young people can return for fulfilling careers, where confidence and vitality thrive, and where the county belongs not only to Taiwan but also to the world.

President Lai praised the teamwork behind this year’s event, calling it a product of a full year’s creative effort. He said: “The Taiwan Lantern Festival, now in its 37th year, has developed its own character and won international acclaim. “According to the Discovery Channel, it is one of the world’s most representative events, even described by global travel magazines as a ‘Disneyland without roller coasters.’