By KHT Staff. Images via the Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau.
KAOHSIUNG — More than 70 bars, food trucks, and culinary brands will gather along the Love River next month as Kaohsiung Cocktail Day returns for its third year.
The 2026 Kaohsiung Cocktail Day will be held from 3 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 29 and 30 along Hexi Road (河西路), between Jhongjheng 4th Road (中正四路) and Wufu 4th Road (五福四路).
The Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau said this year’s event will include more than 50 bars and bistros, more than 20 food trucks, and guest bartenders from Japan and South Korea.
Admission to the festival area is free, but alcoholic drinks require an official event wristband and cocktail vouchers. Visitors must also complete age verification before redeeming alcoholic drinks.
Early-bird packages went on sale through the 7-ELEVEN ibon ticketing system on July 15. Each NT$938 package includes one wristband, five cocktail vouchers, and a limited-edition canvas bag.
Tickets are sold by date, so buyers should confirm which day they plan to attend before purchasing, the bureau said.
Tourism Bureau Director-General Kao Min-lin (高閔琳) said the city has been developing its nighttime economy through events along the Love River and other waterfront areas.
Kao said the cocktail festival is intended to combine the city’s harbor setting with food, drinks, markets, and nightlife.
Non-alcoholic drinks will also be available, allowing families and non-drinking visitors to take part in the event.
Because parking near the Love River is limited, the bureau urged visitors to use public transportation. Festivalgoers can take the MRT Orange Line to Yanchengpu Station (鹽埕埔站) or Cianjin Station (前金站), or take the light rail to Love Pier Station (真愛碼頭站).
The bureau also reminded visitors not to drink and drive, and encouraged those consuming alcohol to use taxis, designated drivers, or public transportation.
