Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

In preparation for the 2010 Taipei Lantern Festival opening ceremony on February 26, the city government unveiled the main lantern "HoKi" at the Sun Yat-san Memorial Hall during a trial-lighting display in the night of February 25.

Deputy Mayor Lin Chien-yuan, Department of Civil Affair Commissioner Huang Lu Ching-ju, and VIP guests joined hands to kick off the lighting event by activating several bamboo cannons on stage.

Surrounded by water geysers, flower fragrance showers, and laser beams, the 20-meter-tall "HoKi" lit up the night sky with its dazzling display of lights and colors.

According to the event organizer, this is the first time for the main lantern to feature the fragrance of flowers as one of the components of the lantern show. Released in gushes of watery mist, the fragrance offers additional enjoyment for spectators enjoying the main lantern show.

During his address, Deputy Mayor Lin indicated that the lantern festival this year – from the main exhibits to the finer details – all carry the imagery of flowers as a way of promoting the 2010 Taipei International Flora Exposition.

He also thanked the sponsors for their financial assistances and invited the public to come and enjoy the lantern festival celebrations.