Ocean Fireworks Festival in Penghu

Part of the Penghu travel guide — see every topic in All Penghu Guides.

The Penghu International Ocean Fireworks Festival is the biggest event on the islands. It began in 2003 and is now held every year. On set nights each week, fireworks fill the sky over the water at Magong, with music, light shows and food stalls along the shore. The festival runs for several weeks, usually from about early May into the summer. Dates, nights and the number of shows change every year, so check the official Penghu tourism site before you plan your trip.

When it happens

The festival usually starts in early May and runs for several weeks or months. In 2026 the main shows started in early May and ran into late August, with shows on two nights each week for part of the season. Other years were shorter. The main fireworks usually start in the evening around 9 pm, with music and stage shows before them. Some nights there are also smaller shows on other islands. Strong wind or rain can delay or cancel a show. Check the official schedule for the year you visit, since the dates and nights change each time.

Where to watch

The main stage is at the Guanyinting waterfront recreation area in Magong, a short walk from the town center. The fireworks are launched from barges out on the water, and the shore park, the seawall and an arched footbridge give good views. Crowds start to gather well before the show, so arrive early if you want a good spot near the front. Many hotels and cafes along the harbour also have views. If you prefer fewer people, watch from farther along the seawall. The reflections on the water are still beautiful from a distance.

Planning your trip

Show nights are the busiest time of the year in Penghu. Flights and ferries fill up fast, and many hotels in Magong are full on fireworks nights. Book your transport and room as early as you can, especially for weekends and the first shows of the season. Plan to stay at least two or three nights. Then you have time for island hopping during the day, and a spare night if a show is moved. Roads near the harbour can be closed or crowded before and after the show, so walking is often faster than a scooter or taxi.

Combining with summer

The festival falls in the calm season, which is also the best time for boat trips, beaches and snorkelling. A good plan is to spend the day on the outer islands, return to Magong in the late afternoon, eat seafood, and walk to the harbour for the show. Early in the season, in May, the weather is warm but not yet very hot, and the crowds can be a little smaller than in summer. Later in the summer the heat is strong and typhoons are possible, which can stop boats and shows for a few days. Keep your plans flexible.

Ocean Fireworks Festival at a glance

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