Cheerleading Goddess Lee Da-hye as Opening Guest: Shigang Hot Air Balloon Festival Launches Aug 22

The '2026 Taichung Shigang Hot Air Balloon Festival' will be grandly held from August 22 to 24 at Tuniu Sports Park in Shigang District. The event will feature the world’s only 'Taitung Tianhou Temple Mazu-shaped hot air balloon' making its first-ever ascent in Taichung, along with tethered balloon experiences, music evenings, nighttime light sculpture shows, gourmet markets, and family-oriented activities, creating the most captivating summer spectacle in the mountain town.

Wu Shi-wei, Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau, announced that South Korean cheerleading sensation Lee Da-hye has been specially invited as the opening guest on the first day, inviting people nationwide to visit Shigang and experience the unique charm of this mountainous Hakka village.

Director Wu noted that Lee Da-hye loves traveling across Taiwan, and her sunny and approachable image has won widespread affection. Having personally attended the Taitung International Hot Air Balloon Festival last year, she is now invited for the first time to Shigang as an opening guest—transitioning from participant to stage performer—and continuing her connection with Taiwan’s hot air balloon events. Her presence is expected to inject greater youthfulness, vitality, and buzz into this year’s festival.

Organizers hope that Lee Da-hye’s immense popularity and charisma will attract more young people and families to explore the mountain town and enjoy the summer charm woven from hot air balloons, delicious food, markets, and Hakka culture.

Shigang District Chief Xu Tian-long stated that this year’s theme is 'Shigang Takes Flight – A Happy Mountain Town,' integrating four core pillars: happiness, good food, music, and family. The program features rich content including hot air balloon displays, live music performances, interactive family activities, and specialty markets, ensuring non-stop excitement over three days.

On the evening of August 22, popular band Nine One One (911) will headline the finale; on August 23, Golden Melody Award-winning singer Harlin Hsu will take the stage, joined by Lin Yi-Ring for a special surprise duet. Additionally, performers such as Yang Jing-yu, Wu Yu-hsuan, SONNiE Sandy, Nuts Band, Ace Band, and the CTBC Brothers cheerleading squad will rotate on stage, transforming Shigang into a massive outdoor music party.

District Chief Xu emphasized that this year’s family programs are equally exciting. The YOYO Family’s Cloud Sister and Pumpkin Brother will deliver energetic singing and dancing performances, while clown magic shows will add festive fun. Beloved character mascots including the Penguin Family and Ah-Chi Kindergarten will appear in person for close interactions with visitors, collectively creating a joyful family celebration.

Nighttime Hot Air Balloon Light Sculpture Music Shows will be held on the evenings of August 23 and 24, combining lighting effects, music, and mountain town nightscapes to create a dreamy summer atmosphere and leave unforgettable memories for visitors.

The Shigang District Office stated that to enhance promotional effectiveness, the city government is disseminating event information via electronic media and online platforms. Light boxes and LED video walls have been installed at multiple Taichung Metro stations to broadcast promotional videos, and themed Roman flags are displayed along major roads such as Taiwan Boulevard and Wenxin Road, allowing commuters and travelers to easily access highlights of the event.

This year’s event has also received enthusiastic support from SK Life Insurance and Miteer Nougat, jointly promoting Shigang tourism and injecting additional energy into this mountain town celebration.

The Shigang District Office added that comprehensive shuttle services and traffic management measures will be implemented during the event. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or shuttle buses and to pay attention to on-site traffic control notices. Additionally, they are welcome to plan a one-day tour of Shigang’s mountain scenery or combine it with a two-day itinerary covering downtown Taichung and the coastal line, fully enjoying the summer feast of rising balloons, fireworks, live music, and scenic mountain views.

For more information, please visit the Shigang District Office Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/shigang.district/?locale=zh_TW