Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

The exciting weekend parade marking the start of Taipei’s New Year countdown celebrations took place in the streets around city hall on December 26.
Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin led the mascots of the Taipei International Flora Exposition – Flower Fairies and Ya-by – at the procession. Spectators along the parade route received candies and small gifts from the mascots and staff members.
The city-sponsored march began at 2:30PM; the procession is headed by a giant lion costume followed by a fleet of heavy bikes. Notable parade participants include a giant Taipei International Flora Expo float; YOYO family members; mascots of well-known gods and deities appearing at the 2009 Deaflympics, a Snoopy float, and five flower fairies with their new “partner” Ya-by from the Taipei International Flora Expo.
Many residents tried to shake hands with the mayor as he handed out the treats during the parade, prolonging the 10-minute walk to about one hour.
During the opening speech, Hau indicated that the 2009 Summer Deaflympics has been a success for the City. The next major international event to take place in this city will be the Taipei International Flora Expo. It will be the first time for the event – regarded as the Olympics of the horticulture industry – takes place in Taiwan.
Hau expressed his confidence that with the all-out support and collaboration of residents, the visitors from abroad will be able to witness the beauty of this city during their stay.