How Taiwanese People Celebrate Lunar New Year

In Taiwan, Lunar New Year is more than just a holiday — it is the most important time of the year. It is a season of family reunions, traditions, food, faith, and joyful celebration.

If you ever visit Taiwan during this period, you will quickly feel the energy: fireworks in the sky, crowded temples, families gathering around tables, and mahjong tiles clicking late into the night.

Here’s how Taiwanese people celebrate.

🧨 Fireworks and Festive Energy

Firecrackers and fireworks are everywhere during Lunar New Year. Traditionally, they are meant to drive away bad luck and welcome good fortune.

One of the most famous events is the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival in southern Taiwan, where thousands of fireworks are launched into the crowd in a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle.

The louder it is, the luckier the year is believed to be.

🏮 Temple Visits and Prayers for Good Fortune

On the first day of the New Year, many families visit temples to pray for health, success, and prosperity.

Some people try to be the first to place incense (called “grabbing the first incense”) to secure the best luck of the year. Others draw fortune sticks to see what the year may bring.

Temples are filled with incense smoke, red lanterns, and hopeful wishes.

🀄 Family Mahjong Nights

Mahjong is almost a symbol of Taiwanese New Year.

From Lunar New Year’s Eve to the third or fourth day, families often gather around the mahjong table. The sound of tiles shuffling and laughter fills the house.

It’s not just about winning money — it’s about spending time together.

🧧 Red Envelopes and Family Reunions

Children look forward to receiving red envelopes filled with lucky money from parents and elders. In return, they offer New Year greetings and good wishes.

The most important meal of the year is the Reunion Dinner on New Year’s Eve. Families travel from all over Taiwan to eat together. Traditional dishes like Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, fish (symbolizing abundance), and long noodles (for longevity) are commonly served.

It is not just dinner — it is a symbol of unity.

🌸 Traveling and “Walking in Spring”

Many Taiwanese people go “walking in spring” (走春), which means taking short trips during the holiday.

Popular destinations include cherry blossom spots, Sun Moon Lake, Jiufen, and Alishan. Highways can be packed, and hotels fully booked — but the festive atmosphere makes it worthwhile.

🍽 Food, Shopping, and Modern Celebrations

In modern Taiwan, Lunar New Year also includes shopping sales, night markets, movie marathons, and online gaming events.

Some families stay home and watch streaming shows together. Others go out for hot pot or seafood feasts. Tradition and modern lifestyle blend naturally during this season.

A Celebration of Noise, Warmth, and Togetherness

Lunar New Year in Taiwan is not quiet or minimal — it is vibrant, loud, emotional, and deeply meaningful.

It is about returning home.

It is about honoring tradition.

It is about eating too much, laughing loudly, and starting the year with hope.

If you want to truly understand Taiwan, visit during Lunar New Year — and prepare to celebrate like a local.