St. Kitts and Nevis’ Lantern Illuminates the night at the 2023 Taiwan Lantern Festival

(Taipei, Taiwan Tuesday 7^th February, 2023) The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the Republic of China (Taiwan) is once again participating in the Taiwan Lantern Festival. This year, the 2023 edition has returned to the capital city, Taipei, after 23 years of being hosted in other cities around the island.  

St. Kitts and Nevis’s resident Ambassador to Taiwan, His Excellency Donya L. Francis said that he is excited to be participating in the lantern festival this year, having previously assisted the Embassy at the same event while pursuing his studies.

This year, the lantern titled “A Magnificent view from the Scenic Railway”, is a replica of the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. The Federation’s national bird, the Brown Pelican, also sits on top of the train while two nationals are depicted enjoying the ride. Two vervet monkeys can be seen next to the train with coconut trees and a mountain in the view.  

Also, this is the first year that the Embassy is displaying a moving lantern. The train moves back and forth, the bird can be seen flapping its wings while the camera being held flashes.  

“Our lantern seeks to provide the enthusiastic patrons with a unique view of our history while showcasing one aspect of our tourism product,” Ambassador Francis explained, adding, “as we continue to educate the Taiwanese populace about St. Kitts and Nevis and encourage them to visit our paradise.” 

The Embassy’s lantern has proven to be one of the favourites with people returning to take pictures and videos of the performances by nationals.  

Ambassador Francis said that he is grateful for the assistance he has been receiving from his staff, the nationals in Taiwan and students from two senior high schools; Blessed Imelda School and Ger-Jyh Senior High School.  

“I have said repeatedly that our events are successful because of the assistance we receive especially from our nationals, who take time out of their busy schedules to volunteer, so I must applaud them and express my sincerest gratitude,” said Francis.  

The Embassy wishes to say thanks to the nationals who assisted during the opening ceremony; Rolhensha Henry, Deonje Woodley, Kevrone Phipps, Hance Richards, Hakim Blackmoore and Jacinth Hunkins.  

These spectacular Lantern Festivals are held every year in large cities on the 15th day of the Lunar Calendar month. This year, the Taiwan Lantern festival runs from February 5^th to February 19^th at the Dr Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and spreads across the Xinyi District.