The 2025 Zaoqiao Pumpkin Festival officially kicked off on May 10, drawing enthusiastic crowds to this beloved annual celebration of local agriculture and culture. Visitors flocked to the vibrant pumpkin tunnel, where pumpkins of all shapes and colors including giant, ornamental, and edible varieties hang from arched trellises in a dazzling display. Lively performances added to the festive atmosphere, while booths selling local farm products saw strong sales. People from across Taiwan are warmly invited to experience the charm of Zaoqiao’s pumpkin industry and the scenic beauty of its rural landscape.
Now in its seventeenth year, the Zaoqiao Pumpkin Festival has grown into a major event, attracting large numbers of visitors and earning strong recognition throughout Taiwan. With its rolling hills and well-drained soil, Zaoqiao Township provides ideal conditions for growing pumpkins, which are both nutritious and one of the region’s key agricultural products. This year’s highlights include a 200 meter pumpkin tunnel, cooking demonstrations by well-known chefs, a musical performance by Pumpkin Brother and Cherry Sister for children, a farmers’ market featuring goods from all 18 townships and cities in Miaoli County, and creative pumpkin dishes presented by local homemaker groups. Free tastings of steamed pumpkin, stir fried rice noodles, and chicken soup are also available to encourage spending and support local commerce.
(Data source: Miaoli County Government)