Like the mind of one praying for vitality, sky lanterns cradle the tiny flame of hope, while the shape and meaning of characters stir expectations of life’s jubilation. A tradition with history stretching over two hundred years, sky lanterns are northern Taiwan’s most colorful cultural event. Lasting until today, the release of sky lanterns into the evening air are a heartening ritual representing prayer. Besides the beautiful spectacle, sky lanterns also offer hopeful participants a vehicle for their wishes, raising their spirits and spreading love and blessings as they float toward the heavens.