The "2026 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival" held its closing ceremony at Taichung Central Park on the evening of March 3rd, marking the successful conclusion of the multi-day event amidst dazzling lights and a touching atmosphere. This year, the Agriculture Bureau of Taichung City Government created the "Animal Dream World" themed lantern area, based on the core concept of "Animals Have Homes, Cities Have Love." This successfully combined light art, life education, and animal protection issues, attracting many citizens to visit and take photos. It not only provided a visual feast but also deepened public awareness of animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

      As night falls, strolling through the fantastical scene of interwoven light and shadow, the warm and soft lighting illuminates the pure and sincere emotional connection between humans and animals. This year, the light display features the protagonist, a little white cat named "Meow Meow," leading visitors on an adventure through a dreamlike passageway. Along the way, they encounter many different animals. Through story-driven light installations, the exhibition guides visitors to understand the plight of wild animals, the responsibilities of pet owners, and the importance of life education, deeply instilling the spirit of "Animals Have Homes, Cities Have Love" in people's hearts. This journey not only leaves unforgettable memories but also carries profound educational significance.

     During the Lantern Festival, the Agriculture Bureau of Taichung City Government planned a variety of activities, including "Dream Unveiled Theme Day," "Pet Care Master Day," "Stargazing Picnic Day," "Future Hope Day," and various Facebook raffles. Through lectures, hands-on workshops, and other engaging and educational activities, the public was able to learn more about animal protection, pet ownership responsibilities, and ecological conservation while participating in artistic creation or outdoor activities. Registration for all activities was enthusiastic, demonstrating the public's high level of concern and support for animal-friendly and life education issues.

     With the successful conclusion of the closing ceremony, this year's lantern festival has come to a beautiful end. "Animal Dream World" was not only a light art performance, but also a public dialogue about love and responsibility. Through the lantern festival, it connected online and offline forces, conveying the concepts of animal protection, environmental sustainability, and urban development vision, allowing the public to rethink the relationship between humans, nature, and animals while appreciating the beauty of the lanterns. The Agriculture Bureau will continue to promote policies and activities related to animal protection and life education, integrating the concepts of caring for animals and respecting life into daily life, and building Taichung City into a sustainable city where humans and animals coexist harmoniously, full of love and hope.