Exploring the Christmas Market in Taiwan

In many Western countries, Christmas is the biggest economic boost of the year; Taiwan goes right to the point. It serves as a major prelude to the larger-than-life Lunar New Year shopping season. Not that Taiwan is a materialistic country. Pop culture and consumerism have influenced so many Christmas traditions, with American corporations such as Coca-Cola having long since set the standard. There is also religion. I often get the impression that Christmas is mostly a commercial event with some time spent with family and friends in non-Judeo-Christian countries (much of East Asia being one of them). Additionally, Buddhist and Daoist temples predominate throughout Taiwan. Between Santa Baby and Baby Buddha, there is a distinct boundary. Mazu is not being forced to wear a Santa hat. Folklore around Christmas isn't as ingrained as it is in the West. However, Taiwan may be a more joyous place than much of America based on the Christmas decorations. The primary distinction is that Christmas in Taiwan lacks the rich customs and historical background that accompany gift-giving. Though less than 20% of Taiwanese people identify as Christians, Western missionaries' contributions to medicine and education since the 1860s have greatly contributed to the acceptance of Christianity in mainstream culture. Along with many large hospitals, missionaries founded a number of the nation's colleges and institutions.