Miaoli County, Taiwan — October 5, 2025

Known for its signature grass jelly delicacies, Shitan Township in Miaoli County is once again transforming its scenic landscape into a stunning display of purple blooms for the annual Grass Jelly Flower Festival. The township office has begun planting over 23,000 Herba Jelly Flower seedlings near Dadongshi in Xindian Village, covering an area of approximately 1.5 acres. The flowers are expected to reach full bloom in time for the festival’s opening on November 29, which will run over three consecutive weekends until December 14.

The Shitan Township Office said this year’s festival will not only highlight the township’s unique agricultural heritage but also feature landscape art installations designed to blend nature, culture, and creativity. To kick off preparations, the township launched the Grass Jelly Flower Festival Landscape Art Creation Competition, encouraging local artists, youth groups, and businesses to participate.

A total of seven art teams joined the competition, drawing inspiration from three major themes—“Mist View,” “Imagination and Feast,” and “Talking about the Pond.” Participants were encouraged to incorporate local materials and stories into their designs to reflect Shitan’s identity.

Students from Shitan Junior High School also joined as a “seed team,” showcasing youthful creativity in their landscape designs. The top four winning entries, determined through nationwide online voting, will be displayed during the festival. Voting opens on October 12 through the official website: contest.plus1today.tw/shitanflower.

The Grass Jelly Flower Festival has become one of Shitan Township’s most anticipated annual events, combining agricultural tourism and artistic expression. Visitors can look forward to a vibrant purple sea of blossoms, interactive installations, and an opportunity to experience the natural charm and cultural spirit of Shitan.