The Matsu National Scenic Area Administration of the Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation & Communication (hereinafter referred to as the Matsu Administration), for the first time, created an art banquet of shimmering light and shadow, showcasing five lighting areas that integrate the landscape. The lights were officially lit up at the Nangan Beihai Recreation Area at 5:30 pm on December 31, 2023. Honored guests attending the lighting ceremony included Legislator CHEN Hsueh-sheng, Lienchiang County Magistrate WANG Chung-ming, Lienchiang County Council Speaker CHANG Yung-chiang, Councilor TSAO Erh-chang, Director LIU Hsing-chien of the Lienchiang County Traffic and Tourism Bureau, Director LIN Jhih-fong of the Economic Development Department, Township Chief LIN Chih-tung of Nangan Township, Chief LI Si-hsien of the 11th Patrol District Command of Matsu Coast Guard Administration, Deputy Director CHENG Chao-hsin of the Matsu Investigation Station of the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, the Alliance Leader YANG Yao-chih of the Matsu Tourism Union Industry Alliance, the honorary chairperson LIN Chun-hui of the Lienchiang County Matsu Geopark Association, Deputy Manager CHIU Po-wen of Tasa Meng Corporation, Chairperson LIN Chia-chun of Tie Ren Leisure and Recreation Co., Ltd., Director CHENG Ju-chuan of Mandarin Airlines, and Director HUANG Shih-fang of Matsu Administration, all of whom shared the dazzling banquet with visitors amid the radiant lights and shadows.
Combining Matsu's unique natural and cultural elements, the five lighting areas are categorized as "Deer Wilderness Starlight", "Brilliant Starry Showcase", "Matsu Enchantment", "Strolling Sea Waves", and "Night of Reunion", creating heart-touching spectacles of subtle and beautiful lights. Each lighting area resembles a colorful painting, unfolding a unique brilliance in the night and creating a dreamlike atmosphere as if stepping into a fantasy world. Mr. Lee from Pingtung expressed, "It's my first time celebrating New Year on an offshore island. I received the invitation to attend the lighting event. The moment the lights were turned on, it felt like a dream. I was not only amazed, but also deeply moved. Especially the little deer decorations; the children eagerly taking photos made it an unforgettable experience!"
In addition to the enchanting play of various lights, local Matsu groups, including the Wave Band and the Oriental Dance Ensemble, brought lively and joyful performances to the scene. Furthermore, there were unique jellyfish lantern souvenirs given away for social media check-ins, and a chance to win accommodations for exploring Matsu, adding vibrant and festive energy to the New Year's Eve celebration!
Additionally, the "Light Festival Specialty Food Market" at the event attracted the attention and taste buds of countless visitors. Exploring a variety of flavors and culinary delights allowed visitors to experience the unique essence of Matsu's cuisine with every bite. It was an opportunity to immerse oneself in the distinctive cultural atmosphere of Matsu through its culinary offerings.
Continuing the celebration of lights and shadows, and welcoming the arrival of the year 2024, Matsu Administration organized a lively megaphone competition on New Year's morning at the Beihai Recreation Area, where visitors enthusiastically shouted out their New Year's wishes loudly to the sea. Miss Chen from Taichung shouted, "I want to get thin," reaching a decibel level of 157, securing first place. Miss Lu exclaimed, "breakfast every day," reaching a decibel level of 149, winning second place. Miss Chen declared, "I want to make a fortune," with a decibel level of 131.4, earning third place. Additionally, Miss Lu from Taipei boldly stated that she wanted to get a boyfriend this year, which received passionate agreement from the audience, earning her the Most Creative Award! With the blessing of the sea to support their wishes, visitors showcased their vibrant energy in welcoming the dawn, uniquely embracing the arrival of the new year. Each participant left with a unique glowing wish bottle; in addition, expressing their wishes to the sea was deemed a fulfilling and unforgettable experience by all attendees.
The glamourous lighting within the recreation area will continue to illuminate the Matsu night sky every day at 5:30 PM until February 25, 2024, enriching the magical charm of Matsu's nighttime. Come and personally experience this unmissable, dazzling, and dreamlike visual feast with your families and friends.
For more event information, please refer to the Facebook fan page of the Matsu National Scenic Area Administration: https://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw/index.aspx?l=1)
