Taichung Shiqang Hot Air Balloon Festival Takes Flight August 22 with 'Dual Mazu' Blessing

The Shiqang district in Taichung is set to launch its annual hot air balloon festival from August 22 to 24. This year's event promises a unique blend of tourism and local faith, highlighted by the appearance of a Mazu-themed hot air balloon from Taitung's Tianhou Temple. Complementing the aerial display, a Mazu deity statue from Shiqang's local Shizhong Temple will be present at the venue, creating a "dual Mazu meeting" for blessings.

Taichung City Government's Civil Affairs Bureau Director Wu Shi-wei emphasized the significance of this cross-mountain and cross-sea gathering of Mazu deities in Shiqang, aiming to bring blessings to the mountain city. He noted that beyond enjoying the hot air balloons, visitors can experience the unique charm of local beliefs intertwined with mountain tourism.

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Two Mazu deities gather in Shiqang across mountains and seas, joining hands to pray for the mountain city, and allowing the public to feel the unique charm of local beliefs intertwined with mountain tourism while chasing hot air balloons.

Shiqiang District Chief Xu Tian-long invited the public to not only "look up at Mazu" but also to "bow beneath the sedan chair" through a traditional "drilling the sedan chair" ritual for blessings and peace. The festival will also feature popular entertainment, including a performance by cheerleading star Lee Da-hye on opening day, alongside artists like Nine One One, Hsiao Huang-chi, and various dance troupes. The event is packed with music, food stalls, family activities, fireworks, and a light show.

Four large hot air balloons are scheduled for the festival. Rides will be available twice daily, from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, with tickets sold on-site 30 minutes prior. Each ride costs NT$500 and is limited to 150 tickets per session, with a capacity of 3-4 people for a 4-6 minute flight. All hot air balloon activities are subject to weather conditions and safety assessments.

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In addition to looking up at Mazu, people can also bow beneath the sedan chair for blessings.