[2025] I Visited the New Taipei Christmasland! This Year’s Theme Is “Circus Carnival” — A Report on the Winter Festival Lit Up by Lights and Circus Magic

When it comes to classic winter traditions in Taiwan, New Taipei City Christmasland is always at the top of the list. In 2025, the event runs for an extended period from November 14 to December 28, and once again it has been bustling with visitors since opening day! This year’s theme is “Circus Carnival.” A fantastical, slightly retro world full of excitement and wonder spreads across the venue.

Today, I’ll share the highlights I discovered during my visit and tips on how to make the most of the event.

This Year’s Christmasland Theme: “The Magic of the Circus”

As you approach the plaza in front of City Hall, the first thing that catches your eye is a massive gate shaped like a circus tent. Its red and gold decorations pair perfectly with the winter night, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into a special celebration the moment you walk through.

What’s more, in 2025 LINE FRIENDS & minini have teamed up for a special collaboration. Brown, Cony, and the others appear in adorable circus costumes, creating irresistible photo spots throughout the venue!

The Nighttime “Light Show” Is an Absolute Must-See

The annual illumination display is once again breathtaking this year. The light show projected onto the City Hall building combines lasers, colored lights, and animations, transforming the entire façade into a massive screen.

The circus-themed sequences are especially enchanting—so magical that you feel as though you’ve wandered into the world of Cirque du Soleil. The show is performed multiple times from dusk into the night, so be sure to catch it when the timing works for you.

A Food and Lifestyle Market Packed with Treats

During the event period, food stalls and market booths line the area, making it easy to enjoy snacks as you stroll around. This year, a German-style Christmas market will be held from December 5–7, offering authentic European flavors such as hot wine and sausages.

Being able to enjoy both local Taiwanese food and international Christmas traditions is one of the unique charms of Christmasland.

Stage Events That Are Better Than Ever

The opening festivities featured aerial performances and musical acts perfectly suited to the circus theme. Throughout the event, a wide variety of shows—live music, dance performances, fashion shows, and more—are scheduled, giving each visit a completely different experience.

Even if you happen to stop by while traveling, you’re almost guaranteed to encounter some kind of performance.

For First-Time Visitors: Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

Finally, here are some helpful pointers I learned from actually going—little things that will make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

◎ 1. Check the Official Map First

The venue spans a huge area around Banqiao Station. Since there are many photo spots, it’s best to check the ones you want to visit in advance so you can move around smoothly.

◎ 2. The Best Time Is Between 6 PM and 9 PM

To fully enjoy the beauty of the light show, nighttime is ideal! However, weekends can get crowded, so going a bit earlier is recommended.

◎ 3. Public Transportation Is the Smart Choice

During the event period, traffic restrictions and congestion are common in the surrounding area, so taking the MRT is the least stressful option.

◎ 4. Don’t Forget to Dress Warmly if You’re Taking Photos

Even in Taiwan, December nights can be surprisingly chilly. Since you’ll likely spend a long time outdoors, make sure to bundle up.

Summary

The 2025 New Taipei City Christmasland dazzles with a never-before-seen blend of circus, lights, and beloved characters. From photo spots to food, stage performances, and light shows, every corner of the event offers something truly eye-catching.

It’s a winter festival I can wholeheartedly recommend—both to travelers planning a year-end trip to Taiwan and to those who live here. Be sure to experience this magical, light-filled circus world at least once.

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