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Other Island-Wide Celebrations
Double 10 Day (10-10)
Double Ten National Day commemorates the anniversary of the October 10, 1911, revolution that led to the overthrow of the Cing dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China. There will be parades in front of the presidents office and political speeches. This event site is easily reached from the Hostel by foot or by a short bus/MRT ride.
Farmer's Day
According to ancient tradition, the first day of spring falls in the first month of the lunar calendar. In 1941, this day was set aside to recognize and honor the efforts of farmers across Taiwan. Nowadays, spring rites are celebrated on February 4, largely outside Taipei, and includes the whipping of paper oxen stuffed with grain, symbolic of good harvests to come. Prayers are also said for good health, fertile land, fair weather and pest-free crops.
Chinese New Year
By mid-December, families all around Taiwan begin preparing for Chinese New Year, creating an atmosphere of joy and happyness throughout the Nation. People everywhere migrate back to their family homes. New Year's Eve is spent together, bidding farewell to the old year and all of the problems ushered in. At the end of a huge dinner, parents and grandparents give New Year's money to the children, who eagerly anticipate this moment all year. Families stay up until the wee hours of New Year's Day to watch the old year out and welcome in the new. With New Year's Day comes firecrackers, followed by dragon dancing, lion dancing, and other folk activities. Ancestors should be worshipped at some point to avoid incurring bad luck. Throughout the next two weeks, the streets will ebb and flow with people making New Year's visits to friends and relatives.