What are the traditional and commemorative holidays and festivals in Taiwan?

Holidays and festivals in the Republic of China have a unique character and are closely interwoven with the lives of Taiwan's people.

The main holidays and festivals in Taiwan may be divided into two major categories: Festivals are associated with the traditional calendar whereas official holidays are celebrated according to the Western calendar .The traditional festivals developed from the customs of China's past, and to the celebrants these occasions are a time for recalling one's cultural origins and remembering the wisdom of early ages. Such festivals include the Chinese New Year Festival, and Lantern Festival, both symbolic of discarding the old and ushering in the new; the Dragon Boat Festival, a time for warding off evil and strengthening the body; the Ghost Festival, when the outcasts from the underworld are given salvation; the Mid-Autumn Festival, a celebration of the full moon and unity of mankind; and Double Ninth Festival, to remember the elderly.

Official commemorative holidays are primarily based on the achievements of the people and are celebrated to remember events important to the development of the nation. These occasions include the Founding Day of the Republic of China; 228 Memorial Day; Women's Day; Youth Day; Children's Day; Tomb Sweeping Day; Armed Forces Day; Teachers' Day; and days commemorating the decisive events of the ROC's history, including Double Tenth National Day; Taiwan's Retrocession Day; and Constitution Day to name a few.

Both traditional festivals and commemorative holidays and Festivals in Taiwan are celebrated not only in a style unique to the region, but more importantly, in a way that exhibits the significance of each occasion and fosters the hope of peace on earth.

2002 Taiwan Twelve Major Local Festival Activities
Traditional and Commemorative Holidays and Festivals in Taiwan

Source: Government Information Office, July 2002