The annual Miaoli Fire Dragon series of events officially took place from February 27 to March 7. The first event was the Eye-Dotting Ceremony and Dragon Dance Competition on February 27. Following the start of the new year, auspicious dragons gathered in front of Yuqing Temple Square for a grand celebration.

 

On the evening of March 6 at 6 PM, the exciting and lively “Folk Parade” will be held. This has always been the highlight of the Miaoli Fire Dragon Festival. To enhance the spectacle this year, in addition to eight uniquely distinctive dragon teams, special invitations were extended to the world-renowned Eight Generals dance troupe “Chiayi Flame Dance Troupe,” Taiwan’s first-ever appearance of the “Fire Phoenix,” and the exceptionally participating “Shangri-La Amusement Park.” The parade will start from Miaoli City’s Triangle Park, march along Zhongzheng Road, and conclude at Miaoli Railway Station. Additionally, to attract more youth participation, a “Dragon Cosplay” competition and an open “Public Dragon Parade Team” were introduced this year.

The grand finale of the Miaoli Fire Dragon Festival, the “Fire Dragon Night,” is scheduled for3the7evening. In addition to the spectacular tradition of “thousands of firecrackers set off simultaneously,” this year will feature an expanded “Fire Dragon Public Experience Zone,” allowing spectators (especially those from out of town) who usually only watch from the sidelines to personally experience the thrill and excitement of the Fire Dragon. According to tradition, on the 17th day of the first lunar month, the divine dragon must be sent back to heaven. Therefore, immediately after the Fire Dragon activities conclude, a ceremony to send the dragon back to the heavens will be held. Before the dragon transformation ceremony, award-winning entries from this year’s “Fire Dragon Microfilm” competition will be screened.

 

 

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