Lights on tonight! Taiwan’s tallest Christmas tree shines for 45 days, created with tens of thousands of bulbs

Consumer Center / Comprehensive Report

With five seconds to go, New Taipei City Mayor Eric Chu and Council Speaker Chen Hsing-chin pointed their star wands at Taiwan’s tallest Christmas tree in Civic Square. The lights instantly lit up, a teddy bear flew toward the tree with blessings, and Santa Claus climbed to the top, kicking off a 3-minute-and-55-second audiovisual light show. Twelve light poles in the square also changed colors in sync, heralding the opening of the 2013 New Taipei City Happy Christmas Town to welcome visitors.

The 2013 New Taipei City Happy Christmas Town held its opening lighting ceremony on the evening of November 22. The 35.5-meter-tall main Christmas tree shone in harmony with 2.4 million LED lights across the Christmas town. The coffee cup and carousel in the square were subsequently launched. Many parents brought their children to enjoy the festivities. In addition to the long queues at the amusement rides, the main Christmas tree was a major attraction, with everyone pulling out their phones or cameras to take photos. Mayor Eric Chu handed out candy from Santa’s big red gift bag, delighting the children. Their rosy, smiling faces added even more festive cheer to the Christmas town.

This year’s New Taipei City Happy Christmas Town is full of child-friendly elements, including a Children’s Walk, Circus Street Parade, and a Fun Cartoon Park... etc. Mayor Eric Chu stated that over the past three years, the number of babies born in New Taipei City has increased every year. The city government team not only transforms the city into a giant playground for kids to enjoy during the year-end holidays, but also continues to introduce “Happy Life” programs such as prenatal care, childbirth incentives, childcare subsidies, medical assistance, preschool support, and parenting allowances — creating a happy environment for children to grow up, helping more parents embrace new life without worries.

After tonight’s Christmas tree lighting, this spectacular Christmas feast will continue until January 5 next year. Coming up on November 23–24 is the “Fun Christmas, Joyful Theater,” featuring performances by Puppet Show Theatre, the YOYO Family, and numerous cartoon stars, bringing a series of wonderful stage shows from 1 pm to 8 pm. There will also be an exhibition and sales fair, concerts, circus street parades, dance performances, and a “Mischievous Kids Winter Wonderland” among over ten other events. The New Taipei City Government invites everyone to come to Christmas Town to stroll through the light sea, watch performances, admire the ever-changing light and sound displays of the Christmas tree, and personally experience the beauty and joy of the city.

Taiwan’s largest Christmas park — how to explore without missing anything? Check out the latest guide at %Haihaihang/span>

2013 New Taipei City Happy Christmas Town %Haihaihang/strong>