The historic Dihua Street in Taipei is a sea of festive red as thousands gather to ‘remove the old and bring in the new’ for the Year of the Horse. However, despite the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, a quiet anxiety lingers among the market stalls as according to some, the festive bustle isn’t translating into a windfall for traders.
Footage from Sunday shows calligraphers carefully brushing couplets onto red paper strips as locals browse stalls lined with Lunar New Year decorations and themed products.
Vendors also sold key chains, pet-themed couplets and festive treats, while shoppers moved through the bustling aisles selecting snacks and gifts.
“We’ve been doing this for over a decade, and honestly, I’m not sure why, but the buying power this year seems a bit weak,” said Ms Lin, an almond tea vendor.
She said that, compared to the past few years, this year has been particularly tough for sales.
“I originally thought that with the government’s ten-thousand-dollar cash handout this year, purchasing power would be stronger, but it hasn’t turned out that way,” said the worried vendor.
According to reports, the cost of celebrating in Taiwan has risen, especially for hotel dinners and essential groceries.
In Taipei, reunion dinner packages for 10 people now cost between NT 32,000 ($1,000 USD) and NT 55,000 ($1,755 USD), with individual New Year’s Eve buffet prices reaching NT 2,890 ($92 USD) per adult.
It is also reported that families face extra charges for taxis and Uber during the holiday, with many restaurants imposing holiday surcharges.
Lunar New Year is one of Taiwan’s most important holidays and the longest break for school and work.
Major events include the Taiwan Lantern Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the lunar year.
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