When in Taitung, say “Makaba-hi!” The Makaba-hi International Cultural Tourism Festival is here.

▲ A traditional harvest festival of the indigenous tribes in Taitung. (Photo / Provided by Taitung County Government / Archive photo)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

When you come to Taitung, be sure to say “Makaba-hi!” The 2013 “I’m in Taitung – Makaba-hi” International Cultural Tourism Festival series of events will take place from July 27 to August 1 at the Civic Plaza on Nanjing Road in Taitung City. The event includes a creative street parade, creative makeup competition, tribal life experiences, and the Makaba-hi Night.

This year’s Makaba-hi is themed around “A Tribute to Traditional Indigenous Wedding Songs and Dances.” From July 29 to 31, there will be performances of traditional wedding song and dance dramas by the Amis, Paiwan, Puyuma, and Rukai tribes. The street parade and creative makeup competition will be held on July 27, followed by the Makaba-hi Karaoke Competition on July 28. On August 1, the Makaba-hi Night will feature performances by indigenous Golden Melody Award-winning singers and the MATZKA band.

▲ The rock charm of the MATZKA band will also sweep through this year’s “Makaba-hi” International Cultural Tourism Festival. (Photo / Youhuang Music)

The Taitung City Office stated that in Thailand you say “Sawasdee,” in Hawaii you say “Aloha,” and in Taitung, everyone should shout out loud “Makaba-hi!” The office also pointed out that “Makaba-hi is Taitung’s grandest harvest celebration, attracting large numbers of tourists every year, with over 2,000 people registering for this year’s street parade.”

Starting at 4 p.m. each day during the event, the organizers will also offer a variety of food, fun, and experience activities, including local snacks, Taitung coffee culture, inaugural workshop DIY sessions, a 1-NTD bidding session for Taitung agricultural specialties, and Rukai-style swings. The city office has also launched a special golden tourism route package tour program from July 27 to August 15. For more information, please contactthe Taitung City Office official website, or call (089) 325-310.