By Eryk Michael Smith
KAOHSIUNG — One of the world’s most exuberant spring festivals is set to splash into southern Taiwan later this month, as organizers prepare a large-scale Holi Music Festival at Chengcing Lake (澄清湖) on Feb. 28, blending Indian tradition with Kaohsiung’s growing international cultural scene.
The event, organized by the Ocean Fantasy Museum in cooperation with Taiwan Water Corporation, aims to introduce the Hindu Festival of Colors – known worldwide for its vibrant powder-throwing, dancing, and music – to both city residents and the international community. Holi traditionally celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the renewal of social bonds, with roots in Indian mythology dating back nearly a millennium.
Organizers say the 2026 edition is timed for a weekend to maximize participation and cultural exchange, positioning the festival as both a family-friendly celebration and a platform for cross-cultural understanding. Participants will be invited to take part in the signature color-throwing tradition using gulal powder, symbolically “erasing” social boundaries while celebrating harmony and community.
Festivities will take place on the lakeside grounds near the Ocean Fantasy Museum, one of Kaohsiung’s longest-running leisure attractions, in a setting expected to emphasize tourism, outdoor recreation, and intercultural engagement. The program will run from noon to 8 p.m., featuring live bands (including the famous Philippine group Guhit Band), DJ sets mixing Indian, English, and Chinese music, hourly performances, lucky draws, and inflatable water play zones aligned with Holi’s playful spirit.
Food stalls offering Indian and local cuisine are also planned, underscoring the event’s role as a culinary as well as cultural showcase. Entry packages will include a welcome drink and snack, a complimentary color pack for participation in the festivities, a lucky draw ticket, and admission to the Ocean Fantasy Museum.
Organizers expect attendance from representatives of the India Taipei Association and Taiwan Water Corporation, as well as invited international delegates, with media coverage anticipated. Public transport connects from both the Kaohsiung Main Station and the closest MRT station. On-site parking will also be available to accommodate visitors.
While rooted in South Asian tradition, Holi has increasingly evolved into a global celebration of spring, joy, and reconciliation…and, judging by the scale of plans at Cheng Ching Lake, Kaohsiung appears ready to get thoroughly, enthusiastically, and brightly colorful.
WHAT-WHEN-WHERE:
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- Indian Holi Music Festival 2026, a large-scale color-throwing celebration featuring live bands, DJs, cultural performances, food stalls, and interactive games rooted in the traditional Hindu Festival of Colors.
- Feb. 28, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., with continuous activities throughout the day.
- Lakeside open grounds at Chengcing Lake (澄清湖), near the Ocean Fantasy Museum, a major recreational and tourist area in Kaohsiung with public transport access and on-site parking.
