Events > Taipei Christmas
Christmas in Taipei
Xinyi's magical light displays, European-style holiday markets, and festive dining—discover the best winter celebration in Taiwan.
Christmas in Taipei: A Growing Tradition
While Taiwan is not a Christian-majority country, Christmas has become a beloved secular celebration in Taipei over the past two decades. The city embraces the holiday with enthusiasm, transforming the Xinyi District into a twinkling wonderland of lights, decorations, and festive events.
The centerpiece is the annual Xinyi Christmas Light Festival, where the streets between Taipei 101 and the Taipei City Hall are draped in millions of LED lights. Massive Christmas trees, 3D light projections, and themed installations draw hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Beyond the lights, Taipei offers a growing scene of holiday markets, Christmas-themed dining, and seasonal concerts. From the European-style stalls at Huashan Creative Park to the upscale hotel buffets, there's a Christmas experience for every type of traveler.
Christmas in Taipei Quick Facts
- Season: November 15 – January 2
- Public Holiday: Christmas Day (Dec 25) is observed but not a national holiday
- Best Light Displays: Xinyi District, Taipei 101, Huashan
- Key Activities: Light tunnels, holiday markets, Christmas dinners, ice skating
- Weather: Cool, 15–20°C, occasional rain
Xinyi Light Displays: Where to See the Best Lights
The Xinyi District is the undisputed center of Taipei's Christmas celebrations. Here are the top light displays and their details:
| Display | Location | Highlights | Dates | Crowd | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xinyi Shopping District | Xinyi District | Light tunnels, giant Christmas trees, 3D projections | Nov 15 - Jan 2 | Very high | Free |
| Breeze Center | Xinyi District | Indoor Christmas tree, live caroling | Nov 20 - Dec 25 | High | Free |
| Taipei 101 | Xinyi District | Skyscraper lighting, fireworks countdown | Dec 1 - Jan 1 | Very high | Free |
| Huashan 1914 Creative Park | Zhongzheng District | Art installations, indie market, concerts | Dec 1 - Dec 25 | Moderate | Free |
| Dihua Street | Datong District | Vintage decorations, old-town atmosphere | Dec 10 - Jan 1 | Moderate | Free |
Photography Tip:
The best time for photos is during blue hour (5:30–6:30 PM) when the sky is deep blue and the lights are fully on. The light tunnel near the Taipei City Hall is the most Instagrammed spot—expect a line for photos after 7 PM.
Holiday Markets in Taipei
Taipei's Christmas markets have grown in sophistication, blending European traditions with local design culture. Here are the best markets to visit:
| Market | Location | Focus | Dates | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei Christmas Market (Huashan) | Huashan 1914 | Handmade gifts, mulled wine, live music | Dec 15 - Dec 25 | Free |
| Xinyi Holiday Market | Xinyi Pedestrian Zone | Luxury brands, seasonal food, ice rink | Nov 20 - Jan 2 | Free |
| Songshan Cultural Park Market | Xinyi District | Design goods, artisan crafts, workshops | Dec 1 - Dec 24 | Free |
| Dihua Street Traditional Market | Datong District | Dried goods, traditional snacks, Lunar New Year prep | Year-round, festive Dec-Jan | Free |
Festive Dining: Where to Eat on Christmas
Christmas dining in Taipei ranges from traditional holiday buffets at international hotels to creative seasonal menus at Michelin-starred restaurants. Here's where to book:
| Restaurant | Location | Type | Price | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Din Tai Fung (Flagship) | Xinyi | Holiday dim sum & dumplings | NT$800-1200 | Recommended |
| Raw | Zhongshan | Michelin-starred seasonal tasting menu | NT$3500-5000 | Essential |
| The Sherwood Taipei | Minquan | Christmas buffet & turkey dinner | NT$1500-2500 | Recommended |
| Draft Land | Xinyi | Cocktail bar, festive specials | NT$400-700 | Walk-in |
| Woolloomooloo | Xinyi | Australian brunch, holiday roasts | NT$600-1000 | Recommended |
Booking Tip:
For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, make reservations at least 2-3 weeks in advance. International hotels (Sheraton, Grand Hyatt, W Hotel) are the most popular and fill up quickly. Many restaurants offer special set menus that are not available at other times of year.
Visitor Tips for Christmas Season
Xinyi District gets extremely crowded on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve—arrive before 6 PM to find a good spot.
The best photo opportunities for light displays are at blue hour (5:30–6:30 PM) before the full crowds arrive.
Hotel Christmas dinners often require reservations 2-3 weeks in advance, especially at international hotels.
MRT Xinyi Anhe Station and Taipei City Hall Station are the best stops for the Xinyi light district.
December weather is cool (15–20°C) and often rainy—bring a light jacket and umbrella.
Taipei 101's New Year's Eve fireworks are the highlight; claim your viewing spot by 10 PM at the latest.
Explore More Taipei Events
Christmas is just one of the many seasonal highlights in Taipei. Discover year-round festivals, cultural events, and seasonal guides.