Written/Compiled and Reported by Wei Ruyu
Now at Sogo XinYi New World’s Champs-Elysées Boulevard and Champs Square, you can not only take photos with beautiful Christmas installations and eco-friendly creative Christmas trees, but also explore a European-style Christmas cultural and creative market where your purchases support good causes. There are also exciting performances at the main stage area every day.
Taipei City Government Tourism and Information Bureau Director Zhao Xinping (fourth from right) and Deputy Head of the Swiss Trade Office Mr. Javet (right) present warm red scarves to children from the Heart’s Path Choir. (Photo provided by Taipei City Government Tourism and Information Bureau)
The “2011 Taipei Christmas Town” event, jointly organized by the Taipei City Government Tourism and Information Bureau and the Swiss Trade Office, features a European-style Christmas cultural and creative market along the northern section of Champs-Elysées Boulevard (near Songzhi Entrance) from 11:00 to 22:00 daily between December 16 and December 25. Part of the proceeds from the market will go to charity. While shopping for Christmas gifts or tree decorations, the public can also support disadvantaged groups. The main stage will host many wonderful performances throughout the event period, and on the afternoon of December 24, a carol parade and mini concert will be held to bring the Christmas spirit to a climax.
The star of Christmas Town, the Christmas tree, is located in the southern section of Champs-Elysées Boulevard (at the intersection with Songshou Road). It lights up daily from 18:00 to 22:00. Designed by renowned designer No2good, the tree is made from scrap metal and showcases rich creativity, combining environmental responsibility with striking design to express deep care for the Earth. Additionally, the organizers provide free wish cards at the event site. Visitors can pick up a card, write down their Christmas wishes, and hang them on one of the three wishing Christmas trees in the southern section of Champs-Elysées Boulevard.
Children’s representatives from the Heart’s Path Choir present handmade small gifts to Deputy Head of the Swiss Trade Office Mr. Javet (first from left) and Taipei City Government Tourism and Information Bureau Director Zhao Xinping (third from left). (Photo provided by Taipei City Government Tourism and Information Bureau)
Additionally, this year features several meaningful charity activities. On the afternoon of December 21, Santa Claus will visit NTU Children’s Hospital to sing carols and spread holiday cheer to young patients. On December 24, 15 licensed orphanages in Taipei and New Taipei City will also receive loving Christmas meals and gifts, ensuring that underprivileged children have a joyful holiday.