#China #Kunshan #Mid-Autumn #Kunshan Festival #Taiwanese Investment

The 2025 Cross-Strait (Kunshan) Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival

On September 29, 2025, the vibrant Cross-Strait (Kunshan) Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival officially commenced with a grand lighting ceremony held in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province. This year’s theme, "Twin Blossoms, Shared Lights," highlights the festival's focus on the cultural and economic synergy fostered between Taiwan and mainland China. The event officially aims to enhance interactions in tourism, culture, and economic exchanges across the Strait, showcasing how relationships can be illuminated through shared traditions.

The festival is hosted in two main locations: Huiju Square and Zhouzhuang Ancient Town. In Huiju Square, visitors can immerse themselves in captivating attractions such as drone light shows and dynamic performances by robots inspired by the traditional Kunqu Opera. These performances, influenced by cultural symbols like floral hairpins and water sleeves, beautifully marry age-old artistry with cutting-edge technology. In contrast, Zhouzhuang Ancient Town dares visitors to explore its historical allure through uniquely themed lantern displays, which frame the ancient architecture and charm of the town.

Huiju Square, having been jointly developed by local authorities and Taiwanese partners, serves as the heart of public engagement during the festival. On the opening day, local leaders announced a strategic improvement plan centered around this location, intending to maintain and enhance environmental quality while expanding entertainment facilities, all designed to nurture innovation in culture and industry. Recent cultural initiatives in Kunshan have included exhibitions celebrating pastel art and the illustrious heritage of Kunqu Opera, bridging the artistic expressions of both sides of the Strait.

Among the festival highlights is the display of winning designs from the sixth Lantern Design Competition, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship in lantern-making. Furthermore, the festival includes activities such as the 2025 Kunshan Taiwanese Business Community Mid-Autumn Fellowship, as well as various performances meant to showcase the rich cultural traditions shared between the Taiwanese and mainland communities. One of the anticipated events is the Cross-Strait Folk Culture Day, aimed at fostering deeper understanding and friendships across the Strait.

Kunshan has established itself as a robust center for Taiwanese investment in mainland China, with the city currently hosting a significant concentration of Taiwanese businesses. The city is home to approximately 100,000 Taiwanese residents and business professionals who contribute to its vibrant economy and cultural richness. The Kunshan Pilot Zone for Deepening Cross-Strait Industrial Cooperation has witnessed consistent growth, with over 6,188 Taiwanese-funded projects approved, signaling investments of more than $70.8 billion as of August 2025.

In conclusion, the 2025 Cross-Strait (Kunshan) Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival is more than simply a celebration of the harvest season; it symbolizes the enduring bonds between people and cultures on both sides of the Strait, illuminated through artistic expression and mutual cooperation. Visitors to Kunshan are invited not only to experience spectacular visual displays but also to engage in a deeper appreciation of the shared heritage and bright future crafted together by these two vibrant communities.

With a mix of tradition and innovation on display, the festival is poised to become an illuminating experience for all who attend, strengthening ties and fostering unity in diversity.