Taiwan’s Only Christmas Crystal Ball: A Centuries-Old Park Transforms into a Nordic Fairyland

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The 2017 Pingtung Christmas celebration was held for the first time this year in Pingtung Park, introducing the most popular Nordic design trends. A variety of uniquely dazzling lights turned this over-century-old park into a northern Christmas wonderland. Pingtung enjoys a spring-like climate almost all year round, and even in winter, many people are still seen wearing short sleeves. Visitors are welcome to spend the most vibrant Christmas in Pingtung.

Opened 115 years ago, Pingtung Park has witnessed the eras of Japanese rule and the Republic of China, standing as a testament to Pingtung’s development. This year, the county government hosted Christmas in Pingtung Park for the first time, where the park’s century-long history collided with the modern festive spirit of Christmas, creating a spectacular contrast to the urban Christmas atmosphere. The centerpiece of Pingtung’s Christmas display is a nearly 5-meter-tall “Romantic Crystal Ball,” inside which a ballet dancer twirls to Christmas music, complemented by a scene of falling snowflakes—like stepping into a fairy tale.

This year, the county government created a kingdom of light in Pingtung Park. The entrance features a Santa Claus pop-art archway that gathers all the joy: Christmas patterns and geometric triangles blend into a romantic Nordic aurora, forming a tunnel of time; the illuminated fruits at the ends of the Tree of Life symbolize different ethnicities and lives; the Mirror Water Moon showcases the magical changes of light and shadow; reindeer roam the park grass waiting for Santa to claim them, and oversized versions of homes and various pieces of furniture create a warm and playful atmosphere.

In addition to the Christmas lights, this year’s Christmas series features creative activities. Starting December 2 (Saturday), a cultural and creative market will be held every weekend evening at 5 PM, with renowned shops from nearby Pacific Sogo Department Store and Uni-President Hankyu Department Store invited to set up booths. There’s also a gift exchange cabin on-site, offering a place for everyone to swap surprises and blessings.

The Pingtung Christmas lights will be illuminated nightly from 6 PM to 11 PM from now until March 4 of next year. On December 16 (Saturday) and December 23 (Saturday), from 2 PM to 5 PM, there will be Christmas picnics on the park lawn, featuring performances by musicians, DIY workshops, outdoor games, and soft music moments to help everyone unwind. Additionally, for three consecutive Saturdays and Sundays in December, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, Santa Claus flash mobs will take place, with 10 Santas riding LED sleigh bikes randomly appearing around Pingtung City to spread holiday cheer and hand out small gifts.