From News Desk
The Taiwan Tourism Administration brought vibrant energy, cultural pride and a powerful message of inclusivity to this year’s LA Pride Parade, delighting thousands of spectators with a float that celebrated both Taiwan’s rich heritage and its progressive values. This marked Taiwan’s first-ever participation in the LA Pride Parade.
Decked out in a vivid rainbow theme, the Taiwan float was decorated with an eye-catching display featuring Kaohsiung’s iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas along its sides. In the center of the float was a whimsical giant cup of bubble tea, filled with multi-colored pearls – a playful yet inspiring metaphor for the beauty of diversity and the harmony created when unique identities come together. Atop the float was the Taiwan Tourism Administration’s mascot, OhBear, who embodies the welcoming spirit of Taiwan.
Deputy Director General Sara Chen of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles (TECO-LA) led the Taiwan float, accompanied by the radiant Miss Taiwanese American and her Court. Their presence brought elegance and pride to the vibrant procession. Walking alongside the float were distinguished representatives of Taiwan’s tourism industry, invited by Director Vivian Lin of the Tourism Division. Participants included teams from renowned Taiwanese airlines – China Airlines and EVA Airways – as well as leading travel agencies specialising in Taiwan-bound tourism, such as Lion Travel and Mango Tours. Bringing energy and flair, the Formosan Dance Crew performed dynamic routines to popular Taiwanese hits. Marching together with them were approximately 100 spirited volunteers – including overseas Taiwanese community members and passionate young Taiwanese supporters – who helped shine a spotlight on Taiwan’s commitment to promoting a diverse, inclusive, and globally welcoming image of tourism.
The Taiwan Tourism Administration and China Airlines also co-hosted a booth at the Pride Village, where attendees could create their own custom Taiwan-branded pin badges for decorating their outfits, as well as record entries for the Dance To Taiwan online dance challenge and potentially win one of three flights to Taiwan.
Deputy Director General Sara Chen of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles stated, “Through our participation in Los Angeles’ largest Pride Parade, we hope to showcase Taiwan as a diverse and LGBTQ-friendly travel destination in Asia and to strengthen tourism exchange between Taiwan and the US Taipei also hosts one of the largest Pride parades in Asia each year; and we warmly welcome our American friends to visit and experience it firsthand.”
Director Vivian Lin of the Tourism Division also stated, “We hope the people of Greater Los Angeles can truly feel Taiwan’s warmth, friendliness and spirit of sharing. With summer vacation now underway, the Taiwan Tourism Administration continues to offer a variety of great travel incentives for international visitors – including the Taiwan Free Half-Day Tour for transit passengers, buy-one-get-one-free Taiwan High-Speed Rail tickets; and the Taiwan PASS. Additionally, the ‘Taiwan the Lucky Land’ lucky draw for NT$5,000 in travel vouchers has been extended through September 2025. We sincerely invite travellers from around the world to come and experience Taiwan’s unique hospitality.”
Through its joyful and vibrant presence, Taiwan stands out as a warm, inclusive and welcoming destination for everyone.
The Dance To Taiwan online dance challenge runs until June 17, 2025.
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