Prelude to the climax of Ghost Month: Release water lanterns at Keelung Ocean Plaza, now open to everyone

Reported by You Tzu-ju / Taipei




▲%The lanterns can be personally painted and released. (Photo provided by Keelung City Government)


The annual water lantern release in Wanghai Alley, Badouzi, Keelung, during the Ghost Festival is a unique local tradition during Ghost Month. It is meant to light the way for wandering spirits, both on land and water, inviting them ashore to share in the communal feast and to bless the safety of various clan associations. Due to traditional customs, many members of the public who wish to participate have only been able to watch from afar. In response, the Keelung City Government has, since last year, organized a lotus water lantern release event one week before the main parade, along with the provision of paintable lanterns, allowing the general public to join in the prayer lantern release at Ocean Plaza.

On August 2, 500 paintable water lantern kits will be available for exchange starting at 6:00 PM. Members of the public need only donate two unscratched Uniform Invoices (from July or August) to receive one lantern kit. Creative lantern designs from the competition will also be on display for visitors to admire. As the event falls on Qixi Festival, couples who haven’t yet planned their date are welcome to visit Ocean Plaza to enjoy the night scenery of the port city, collaborate on crafting a prayer lantern, and release it together while making a wish — a truly memorable and romantic date for Qixi.