Every October, Taiwan welcomes one of its most colourful holidays, Double Ten Day, celebrated on October 10. Known locally as Shuang Shi Jie, this special date brings communities together for a festive blend of music, performances, public art and family outings. In 2026, the celebrations once again offered a wonderful opportunity to discover the island’s lively cultural spirit. For many families, the pleasure lies not only in attending a major event but also in the little moments along the way: children waving colourful pinwheels, grandparents sharing favourite memories, friends enjoying street performances and families gathering for a delicious meal. Across Taiwan, the holiday becomes a reminder that some of our happiest experiences are the simplest ones, especially when shared with the people we love.
In Taipei, this year’s festivities brought a youthful, creative atmosphere to the city. Music and dance performances celebrated the talents of local communities, while public art invited residents and visitors to become part of the celebration rather than simply watch from the sidelines. Craft activities, colourful installations and lively gathering places offered something for different generations, making the city feel like one big neighbourhood party. Further afield, the holiday also provided a chance to appreciate Taiwan’s rich variety of local traditions. In Yunlin, for example, the International Puppetry Festival coincided with the Double Ten holiday, creating an especially appealing opportunity for families to discover the art of traditional Taiwanese glove puppetry. With its expressive characters, elaborate costumes, imaginative storytelling and skilful performers, this centuries-old art form continues to connect younger audiences with stories and artistic traditions passed down through generations.
Food, naturally, is part of the pleasure of any Taiwanese celebration. Holiday markets bring together tempting snacks, handmade crafts and local creations, turning an ordinary afternoon into a small adventure. Parents can introduce children to familiar flavours and new treats, while visitors can discover the creativity of local makers and performers. In Taitung, the national celebration on October 10 brought an additional spectacle to the eastern coast, with fireworks, a market and evening performances inspired by the island’s relationship with the ocean and Austronesian cultures. The setting offered a different perspective on Taiwan, where the sea, mountains and living cultural traditions are closely intertwined. Whether enjoying a bustling city event or spending an evening beneath the open sky, families could find their own way to make the holiday special. Sometimes, the best souvenir is not something purchased at a market but a photograph, a shared laugh or a story that will be told again at the dinner table.
Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of Double Ten is the way it can bring together people of different ages and backgrounds through shared experiences. Children discover new sights and sounds, older generations pass on memories, artists share their skills, and neighbourhoods open their doors to visitors. Taiwan’s cultural richness is not found only in museums or historical buildings; it is also alive in its festivals, street performances, traditional arts, local food and everyday acts of hospitality. As another Double Ten celebration becomes a memory, it leaves behind something more enduring than fireworks or decorations: the pleasure of belonging to a community and the opportunity to appreciate the traditions that make a place feel like home.
For families visiting Taiwan, and for those fortunate enough to call the island home,
October 10 is an invitation to slow down,
explore together and celebrate the simple joy of sharing life with others.
Text : Scribblegeist (Ghost of the runaway pencil)
Images : web, Sutterstock, Private Archive
