Though Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Taiwan, Christmas in Taipei comes alive with festive cheer every December. From dazzling light displays to cozy markets and seasonal activities, the city offers plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit.
No matter whether you’re travelling to Taipei or wanting to plan a romantic trip. Here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Taipei in 2024.
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Christmas in Taipei
Unlike many Western countries where Christmas is all about family gatherings and religious traditions, Christmas in Taipei has taken on a uniquely urban charm. Here, the festive season thrives on glittering lights, vibrant markets, and commercial creativity, especially in Taipei, where a light-and-shadow-filled holiday extravaganza is created almost every year.
Hence don’t miss out on Taipei’s Christmas celebrations in 2024! Below are the places that you should go to immersed yourself of the Christmas atmosphere in Taiwan.
Taipei Xinyi District Christmasland
Xinyi District is one of the most iconic shopping districts in Taipei, home to numerous high-end department stores, hotels, and trendy restaurants, making it one of the city’s most sought-after areas. Between Sections 4 and 5 of Xinyi Road, you’ll find famous landmarks like Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi Store, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi New Life, A4 Shopping Center, Vie Show Cinemas, and the Grand Hyatt Hotel, with Taipei 101 standing at its heart.
The district’s key feature is its perfect balance of leisure and shopping, with the entire area being very pedestrian-friendly. The area is easily accessible by public transport. The heart of Xinyi District lies between the Taipei City Hall MRT Station and Taipei 101 MRT Station.
This year, Xinyi District’s Christmas markets are divided into 4 main areas and their themes are as follows:
Shin Kong Mitsukoshi
At Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, there is a large Christmas tree that changes colors in a beautiful gradient. After 4 pm, there is a snow and light show every 15 minutes, with longer shows at the half-hour and full-hour mark.
Address: No.12 Nanjing West Rd. Xinyi Dist., Zhongshan District, Taipei 10444 Taiwan
Click here for the Google map direction
Bellavita
Featuring a Nordic-inspired warm Christmas village theme, it includes a simulated ice river and glass greenhouse, both located indoors and on a smaller scale.
Address: No.28, Songren Rd., Xinyi Dist., Taipei City 110, Taiwan
Click here for the Google map direction
Uni-president Department Store Taipei
With a British-inspired theme (though British visitors might not be too fond of it…), this is an outdoor plaza on a larger scale, featuring plenty of photo-worthy backdrops. There are also some small amusement rides, which should be popular with photo enthusiasts and kids.
Address: No. 8, Section 5 of Zhongxiao East Road Section 5 of Zhongxiao E Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Click here for the Google map direction
Taipei 101 Christmas Square
There will be outdoor decorations, but the main area is on the 4th floor indoors, surrounded by a Pinkoi-themed Christmas market. On Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm, there will also be charity concerts. Most of the brands inside are hosting special Christmas events.
Address:
Click here for the Google map direction
Banqiao New Taipei City Christmasland
Every year, the New Taipei City Christmasland, held here, is one of the largest and most iconic Christmas celebrations in Taiwan. Since its debut in 2011, it has become a key winter festival in New Taipei City. The main event area is located around the Civic Plaza near the New Taipei City Hall and the surrounding commercial district.
The highlight of New Taipei City Christmasland is its annual themed light shows. The City Hall Plaza and surrounding buildings are adorned with magical light displays. A 3D projection light show on the City Hall building is particularly stunning and a must-see for visitors. A giant Christmas tree, usually over ten meters tall, serves as the focal point of the event area. In addition, there are themed markets, cultural activities, and temporary amusement rides like a carousel and a small Ferris wheel, making it a great destination for couples, young adults, and families alike.
This year’s New Taipei City Christmasland is no exception, with a massive six-story Christmas tree themed “Magical Angels.” While the design of this tree may not be as visually striking as the one in Xinyi District, its size is truly impressive. In addition to the giant Christmas tree, there’s also an eight-story LED castle, with an LED surface area totaling 1,100 square meters, making it the largest LED display in New Taipei City Christmasland to date.
The light show for this LED castle runs daily from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm, with performances at every hour and half-hour, and a silent version after 10:00 pm. In front of the LED castle is the outdoor Christmas market, offering a variety of Christmas sweets, drinks, snacks, and decorations. Nearby, you’ll also find Magic Spinning Unicorn and Magic Hot-Air Balloon, which are particularly popular with children.
For more information: Official Website
Location: Google map
Conclusion
Whether you prefer lively celebrations or cozy traditions, Taipei offers something for everyone during Christmas. Plan your visit to experience the city’s unique blend of holiday festivities and local culture. Merry Christmas and happy exploring!
Besides Christmas, the New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31st is also a highlight in Taipei. If you’re interested, click Taiwan Festivals & Holidays: Top Events to Plan Your Trip Around | Lunar New Year, Sky Lanterns, Dragon Boat Races & More to learn more.
