Magistrate Yao Thanks Central Government as “the Ark of the World” lights up the Pacific
To celebrate the 115th birthday of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the National Day Fireworks Gala returned to Taitung Seashore Park after nine years on October 10, drawing a crowd of over 50,000 who gathered to witness the fireworks display themed “The Ark of the World: Austronesian Taiwan.” President Lai Ching-te attended the National Day Fireworks Gala alongside distinguished guests to wish the ROC a happy birthday, and emphasized that the central government will actively support Taitung’s development. Taitung County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling expressed her gratitude to the central government and the National Day Preparatory Committee for bringing the grand gala to Taitung.
On the evening of the event, recommended viewing spots—from Taitung Seashore Park and Makabahai Park to the Ren’yi S. Rd. Levee Pedestrian Walkway Mahengheng Avenue, the Taitung County Stadium, and the southern seawall of Fugang Fishery Harbor —were packed with crowds admiring the fireworks. With its mountains and seas serving as a stage, Taitung celebrated the nation’s birthday alongside people from across the country. According to the county government, nearly 100,000 tourists visited Taitung during the three-day National Day long weekend to travel and watch the fireworks, resulting in near-full occupancy for local hotels and B&Bs.
President Lai Ching-te, along with Han Kuo-yu, Director-General of the National Day Preparatory Committee and President of the Legislative Yuan, and Magistrate Yao Ching-ling, jointly participated in the National Day celebrations. In his speech, President Lai stated that Taiwan is a maritime nation, and Taitung stands on the front line facing the Pacific Ocean. From here, Austronesian peoples set sail for different islands and connected diverse cultures, making Taiwan an “ark” that carries multiculturalism, shared memories, and hopes for the future. He noted that the fireworks not only celebrate the nation’s birthday but also symbolize Taiwan sending blessings to the world through democracy, freedom, peace, and inclusiveness.
Representing the National Day Preparatory Committee, Han Kuo-yu welcomed National Day night in Taitung alongside citizens nationwide. He remarked that every year a different city takes on the mission of hosting the nation’s birthday, and this year that honor belongs to Taitung. The theme “The Ark of the World: Austronesian Taiwan” symbolizes how Taiwan is composed of diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and generations embarking on the same ark, bearing Taiwan’s history and future. From children’s voices and traditional tribal chants to modern music, Austronesian rhythms, and brilliant fireworks, Taitung’s culture shines alongside Taiwan’s diversity.
County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling expressed that Taiwan serves as an important starting point for Austronesian culture. With its multi-ethnic population, Taitung is the cradle of Austronesian heritage. Facing the Pacific Ocean, Taitung occupies a vital position for Taiwan to engage with the world. Under the theme “The Ark of the World: Austronesian Taiwan,” she hopes everyone can see that Taitung is not just Taiwan’s backyard, but a vital gateway for international exchange rooted in Austronesian culture. The key visual design draws from the Amis oceanic wisdom of the “Fifth Wave,” symbolizing adapting to nature, seizing opportunities, and setting sail bravely—echoing the spirit of Taiwan venturing from its Austronesian roots out into the world.
At 8:00 PM, the National Day fireworks display officially began. With the ocean and mountains serving as a natural backdrop, the 30-minute show was accompanied by a live performance from the Taipei Symphony Orchestra Youth Orchestra (TSO YOUTH), with Taitung singer Abao serving as music director and arranger. The musical score seamlessly blended classical music, Austronesian chants, and classic Taiwanese songs. The program opened with Amis songs and the iconic eastward journey song “Pasiwali,” building toward hopeful and celebratory tracks like “Moving Forward” (向前走) and “Thank You”. The fireworks ascended in sync with the music, weaving the unique sounds and emotions of Taiwan across the night sky.
Following the fireworks, the “Austronesian Party” took the stage, showcasing the inclusive spirit of Austronesian culture through music. Shen Wen-cheng and DJ Didilong reunited on stage to perform “NINA Comes to Taitung” alongside local 089 Dance Crew. Tribal music diva Irene Yeh delivered several beloved classic hits. The grand finale featured hip-hop group Nine One One (玖壹壹) teaming up with the Kanadun Youth Association to perform “Qali Ari,” keeping the energy high with song and dance to celebrate the nation’s birthday with audiences across the country.
The event began at 3:00 p.m. with the Mountain and Sea Settlement Market, showcasing local cuisine, culture, music, and creativity. The evening featured a fire dance show, a performance by the Taitung County Children’s Choir, the fireworks display, and the Austronesian Party continuing until 10:00 PM, presenting a grand National Day celebration woven with Taitung’s scenery, culture, and music.
The county government stated that this year, New Taipei City and Taitung are jointly celebrating National Day in a relay-style format. On October 9, New Taipei City welcomed the world under the theme “The Stage of the World,” and on October 10, Taitung took the baton with “The Ark of the World,” setting sail with Taiwan’s diverse culture from the Pacific coast.
Media Contact:
Wang Yu-chi, Industrial Development Section, Finance and Economic Development Department
Tel: 089-321180
Source: Taitung County Government
