Better than Uncle Jiangnan? Taiwan’s First “Neighborhood Chief Drum Team” Debuts at Transit Hub

Reported by Chen Ziyin / Taipei

Taipei City Hall Bus Station looked very different today—what caught visitors’ eyes were a giant clown and two towering Roman warriors. It turned out to be the annual “Ludong Fringe Festival” from Luodong Township in Yilan County making its first-ever promotional appearance in Taipei. This year’s theme, “Ever-Changing Floral Splendor,” brought an artistic flair to the usually bustling transit plaza.

 
▲ A super-sized clown and Roman warriors appeared at Taipei City Hall Bus Station, drawing crowds. (Photo / Chen Ziyin)

A line of samba drummers stood ready—and upon closer inspection, these performers seemed a bit older. That’s right—they’re the “Neighborhood Chief Drum Team” from Luodong, Taiwan’s very first such ensemble. But their performance level was nothing short of professional, leaving onlookers impressed: “Who knew neighborhood chiefs could be so multi-talented? Busy with official duties yet still practicing drumming—amazing!” There was also a samba dance performance by local moms, whose gorgeous floral costumes were hand-sewn by the women themselves. Their vibrant entrance instantly conveyed the lively, warm spirit of Luodong’s residents.


▲ The samba drummers may be a bit older on average? They’re the “Neighborhood Chiefs” of Luodong Township!(Photo / Chen Ziyin)

Luodong Township Mayor Lin Zi-miao said: “This is the 12th edition of the Ludong Fringe Festival. Choosing to step out of Yilan and come to Taipei City Hall Bus Station, where the most returning travelers gather, is our way of letting people across the country know that Luodong people are friendly—not just focused on commercial development, but also committed to blending art and culture. We welcome all visitors with a simple, heartfelt spirit.” For locals, the Ludong Arts Festival is a town-wide event. Mayor Lin noted that everyone—regardless of age, gender, or occupation—got involved. This year also marked the first time the festival was driven by storytelling to enhance the festive atmosphere. The mayor herself played the role of the charmingly European “Floral Queen,” while the Luodong Township Council Chairman took on the persona of the “Ever-Changing Knight.” Together, they led a parade of four mascots: the Fortune Tiger, the Dazzling Sparrow, the Longevity Turtle, and the Thunder Dragon, kickstarting the Ludong Fringe Festival journey. Each mascot represents one of Luodong’s famous attractions: Zhongshan Park, Camphor Garden, Luodong Forest Station, and the Luodong Cultural Factory.

 
▲ In Luodong, everyone pitched in—the moms danced adorably and energetically, wearing handmade costumes. (Photo / Chen Ziyin)


▲ Luodong Mayor Lin Zi-miao and the Luodong Township Council Chairman also dressed up as the Floral Queen and Ever-Changing Knight to match the theme. (Photo / Chen Ziyin)

The “2013 Ludong Fringe Festival – Ever-Changing Floral Carnival” runs from July 27 to August 10, featuring a three-day fringe party night parade from August 7 to 9. The highlight is the grand fringe creative street parade on August 10, with as many as 65 participating groups. A carnival that is both dazzlingly fantastical and vibrantly real has officially kicked off in Luodong, Yilan. Visitors are welcome to join in the festivities.