When hundreds of thousands of revelers gather outside the iconic landmark in Taipei as the last seconds of 2016 tick by, they will be awaiting a new show this time around. After 13 years of New Year celebrations, the Taipei 101 skyscraper will be illuminated not by fireworks alone — but a light show.

Management of Taipei 101 made the announcement yesterday, claiming that in recent years the organizers of the New Year event have struggled to find sponsors. The 2016 event, which lasted 238 seconds and involved as many as 30,000 fireworks, cost a total NT$45 million (US$1.45 million).

Besides the costs, the limits imposed on creativity by a tall vertical structure have forced organizers to think outside the box to provide something extraordinary to welcome in the New Year. While stunning at first, the wow factor has admittedly dwindled over the years, leaving the public somewhat disappointed.

In addition to the light show, which will begin at midnight, a Strasbourg Christmas Market will also be erected next to Taipei 101 offering gourmet food and wine, state-run CNA reports.

First Editor: Olivia Yang
Second Editor: Edward White