The Tourism and Travel Department of the New Taipei City Government has officially launched "Christmasland in New Taipei City 2026," a 45-day winter celebration running from November 13 to December 27. The event, announced at a press conference on October 22 attended by New Taipei City Mayor Yu-ih Hou, embraces the theme of "Travel" and partners with the globally beloved IP "Kanahei's Small animals" to create a festive experience combining adorable characters, romantic charm, and cutting-edge technology. The collaboration features fan-favorite characters Piske, Usagi, and Zombie Neko as travel companions, inviting visitors to embark on a magical hot-air balloon adventure.
This year, all four main themed lighting zones have been upgraded with immersive light experiences, transforming city plazas into picture-perfect destinations. At New Taipei City Plaza, "A Magical Hot-Air Balloon Journey" features a giant hot-air balloon centerpiece with dazzling lights and music. Banqiao Station Square hosts "The Pink Fantasy Harbor," spotlighting an eight-meter cruise ship. Wanping Metropolitan Park presents "The Enchanted Forest Adventure," while Fuzhong Plaza offers "The Christmas Travel Wonderland," where Santa Claus arrives in his sleigh for a breathtaking snowfall show.
The celebration extends to seven satellite lighting zones: Sanchong Anxin Center, New Taipei City Art Museum in Yingge, Zhonggang Main Drainage Plaza in Xinzhuang, Wugu Environmental Art Park, Tamsui Old Street Plaza, Yes!Life Mall in Xindian, and Zhonghe No. 4 Park (823 Memorial Park). Through real-time connections and synchronized lighting, the event will illuminate New Taipei City all at once, transcending geographical boundaries. Visitors can also pick up a Christmasland Passport and collect stamps at designated checkpoints for a chance to win limited-edition gold jewelry from the character collaboration.
Beauty enthusiasts can look forward to a Korean "color analysis and makeup experience" from November 13 to 15, with free reservations opening on October 29 through ACCUPASS. The concert stage will break new ground with a first-ever collaboration between virtual and real worlds, featuring surprise appearances by popular VPOP virtual characters for an immersive audiovisual experience.
A spectacular lineup of events includes the "Christmasland Opening Event" on November 13 with a dazzling light show and live performances. The "Children's Circus Carnival" runs from November 14 to 15, offering interactive music and dance, hilarious acts, and circus tricks. From December 4 to 6, the "German Christmas Market" will bring an authentic European-style market with international delicacies. The "Superstar Christmas Concert – The Greatest Show" will take place on December 12 and 13, featuring a star-studded lineup.
The Tourism and Travel Department encourages visitors to use public transportation. For the latest event information, travelers can visit the New Taipei City Travel website at https://newtaipei.travel, as announced via Media OutReach Newswire.
This announcement is significant for the region's tourism and business sectors. By partnering with a globally recognized character IP and expanding the event to seven satellite zones, New Taipei City aims to attract both domestic and international visitors, boosting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retailers during the winter season. The integration of technology and virtual characters also positions the city as a forward-thinking destination, potentially increasing its appeal to younger demographics and tech-savvy travelers. The event's 45-day duration and diverse programming—from the German Christmas Market to the Superstar Concert—are likely to drive repeat visits and extended stays, generating substantial economic impact for the city.
