The Spring Festival is approaching, and Taipei's most famous New Year celebration, "New Year's Market Street," has also become lively since last weekend. Today we will introduce the most lively New Year celebration in Taipei, "New Year Goods Street".
During the Chinese New Year, you may have seen red paper plastered across the doorways of every home and shop. This kind of red paper is called "Spring Festival couplets" (shūnlián). Write auspicious words on the red paper and stick it on the door or threshold of your home. It is said that it can attract wealth and good fortune, ward off evil spirits and avoid disasters. It is a traditional custom during the Lunar New Year. At this time, you can buy Spring Festival couplets on the New Year Street. Some places also provide handwriting services, and some sell Spring Festival couplets with cute dragon illustrations.
In addition, during the Lunar New Year period, nut and sweet stalls are also everywhere. The traditional meaning of eating sweets is to hope that the coming year will be sweet. Many of the nuts are packaged in red and gold paper which is very gorgeous.
Nuts are also considered mascots for the Lunar New Year, as the kernels revealed after breaking the shell symbolize prosperity for future generations. Pistachio is so named in Chinese because it symbolizes joy and is therefore customary to be eaten at this time. On Dihua Street, you will also see the Nut Tower, which attracts many tourists to take photos.
It is very crowded after lunch time so morning is a good time to visit. The New Year Street is going to finish on 8th Feburary so why not come enjoy the lively atmosphere?
Business hours during the Spring Festival in 2024
February 9 (New Year's Eve): 10:00 - 16:00
February 10 (first day of the Lunar New Year): 10:00 - 16:00
February 11 (the second day of the Lunar New Year): 10:00 - 17:00
February 12 (Third day): 10:00 - 17:00
February 13-16: Closed
February 17: Reopening (store opening at 10:00)