What's On in Taipei

Whether passing through or living in the city, there are plenty of annual events in Taipei to keep expats entertained. From celebrations of Taiwanese traditions to showcases of local artistic talent and global fairs, foreign residents in the city have numerous opportunities to engage with local culture.

Below are some of the most popular yearly events in Taipei for expats to enjoy.

Annual events in Taipei

Lantern Festivals (February/March)

Taiwan is famous for its romantic lantern festivals, held all over the island on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar year. Expect entertaining events on the ground, elaborate fireworks displays and thousands of sky lanterns – lightweight paper lanterns lit from the inside and released into the air, creating a beautiful spectacle as they rise and drift away.

This event, with its roots in ancient traditions, brings together locals and expats to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Attendance is generally open and does not require advance tickets. For more information, check out the official Taiwan Lantern Festival website.

Hakka Tung Blossom Festival (April/May)

A series of spring-related events take place across the island to celebrate spring's onset and the Tung trees' blossoming. Take in the riot of vibrant colours of blooming flowers and fresh, floral scents of spring while biking, hiking or taking a train through popular spots in the countryside.

The festival is a significant part of Hakka culture, with the blossoming of Tung trees symbolising the onset of a prosperous season. Most events are free, and attendees can check the official Hakka website for details.

Taipei Arts Festival (September/October)

The Taipei Arts Festival is Taiwan's most significant arts and culture gathering, showcasing a wide variety of local talent. The event includes theatre performances, traditional dances, art exhibitions, music concerts and more, all held across various venues in the city. The festival offers a vibrant panorama of the city's cultural richness and provides a platform for both local and international artists.

For more information on the events and tickets, visit the official Taipei Arts Festival website.

Taipei International Travel Fair (October/November)

The Taipei International Travel Fair is a grand celebration of Taiwan's travel industry and a platform for global industry exchanges. With more than 60 countries participating, the event invites the world to Taiwan. The fair allows attendees to experience a variety of cultural displays and performances, offering a glimpse into the diverse traditions and customs from around the globe.

To participate, expats can purchase tickets online or at the venue, subject to availability. For more information, visit the official Taipei International Travel Fair website.

Taiwan Cycling Festival (October/November)

This cycling festival features a round-island race and several shorter cycling events that see many international names in cycling descend on the island. The Taiwan Cycling Festival is more than just a series of races; it's a celebration of the spirit of cycling, camaraderie and the beautiful landscapes of Taiwan.

Expats wishing to participate in the races may need to register in advance. Please visit the Taiwan Cycling Festival official website for more information.

Golden Horse Film Festival (November/December)

The most important event of its kind in Taiwan, the festival and awards ceremony showcases the latest in Chinese-language cinema. It is considered one of the leading film festivals in Asia and presents a unique opportunity to discover the richness of Chinese-language films.

Tickets for screenings and the awards ceremony typically need to be purchased in advance. Check out the Golden Horse Film Festival website for more information and the full schedule.