The Taiwan Lantern Festival affirms the most primal human affinity for light and celebration, and does it with illuminating charm. This year, over five million people joyfully gathered in Taichung, Taiwan for a sentimental show of handmade illuminated sculptures celebrating the Year of the Ram, or Sheep, or Goat (pick which ever foraging ruminant suits your spirit, which are celebrated for being hardworking, considerate, and persistent). Over one million Taiwanese and international visitors arrived by car, bus, and high-speed rail for the opening night alone. Along with the lanterns, we were all treated to spectacular fireworks, dance and drumming performances and welcoming speeches from the country’s President and Prime Minister and Taichun’s Mayor.