The tradition of releasing sky lanterns reportedly dates back more than 2,000 years.
Listed by Fodor as one of the “15 Festivals to Attend Before You Die,” the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is popular among international travelers. It takes place in the mountainous village district of Pingxi, with the main stage being in the town of Shifen. The tradition of releasing sky lanterns reportedly dates back more than 2,000 years. Fire balloons were once used to signal villagers, hiding in the mountains from marauders, that it was safe to return home, and were used by military personnel to send messages.