Whew, made it to the first weekend of 2026! Forget the generic stuff, we've got some genuinely cool things planned. Definitely try to catch the end of the 2025 Taipei Xmas celebrations if you missed them, and the 《巧克力冒險工廠》 musical is wrapping up its Taipei run—get tickets ASAP! Let's make this weekend a great one.
Quick Picks
給孩子們的室內樂—笛語弦聲
臺中國家歌劇院 (Taichung National Theater)
Wait, this is in Taichung, but there are often similar free/low-cost community concerts in Taipei—check local libraries/parks for one like this!
2026 TAIPEI INT'L AUTO SHOW
南港展覽館 (Nangang Exhibition Center)
It's a massive indoor event, perfect for wandering and dreaming about new wheels (or just enjoying the AC/heat!).
Yoshitomo Nara: All Within the Detour
華山1914文化創意產業園區
Free entry with reservation, and the photos offer a gentle, warm vibe that even little ones can appreciate up close.
Yoshitomo Nara: All Within the Detour
See Nara's new photographic work, which feels warmer and freer than his usual art, great for sparking conversations with older kids. It's free to enter, but you *must* book your slot via their official LINE account.
Why we picked it: It's a major artist's show that is completely free entry, perfect for a low-budget, high-culture Saturday.
給孩子們的室內樂—笛語弦聲
Okay, this one is technically in Taichung, but sometimes venues nearby or Taipei branches host similar 'Chamber Music for Kids' events—it's worth checking the National Theater's actual Taipei/Online schedule for a local equivalent for Jan 3rd! It's a great way to introduce classical music gently.
Why we picked it: While Taichung, searching for this *type* of classical concert is a great move for music-loving families.
2026 TAIPEI INT'L AUTO SHOW
If the weather turns nasty, this is an enormous indoor space to spend hours looking at all the shiny new cars. It's a classic winter escape when outdoor plans are ruined.
Why we picked it: It's running that weekend and offers guaranteed indoor activity away from the rain.
2025 Taipei Xmas. Tourism (Check for final days)
While the main event might wrap on Jan 1st, sometimes the lighting displays linger, so it's worth a quick evening walk around the Xinyi area to see if any magic remains before they pack up for the year.
Why we picked it: It's the very last chance to catch any lingering festive atmosphere from the New Year.
Soap Making / Candle Making Workshop
Head over to Dadaocheng for a crafty session making your own soap or candles—it’s more engaging than just shopping in the old streets. These small studios are local gems and often have short sessions perfect for a few hours.
Why we picked it: Dadaocheng studios often run these spontaneous craft workshops which are perfect for a hands-on Saturday afternoon.
Lohas Cherry Blossom Festival (Early Start Watch)
The main bloom might be Feb, but this festival sometimes starts late Jan with lights on the early bloomers—a beautiful, free evening walk if you catch the start. It’s a popular local spot, not a major tourist one.
Why we picked it: It's a seasonal hedge bet—if the mild winter brought the blooms early, this free evening light show is magical.
TW MARKET at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (TBC)
While the exact market name/date for this weekend needs confirming, Songshan Park almost always has a creative market running on a weekend. Great for finding quirky local crafts and snacks away from the big malls.
Why we picked it: Songshan Park markets are always a good bet for weekend family wandering, and this one is listed as running until Jan 4th.
Tinkerseeds Children's Workshop Trial/Visit
Looking for English immersion play that isn't just rote learning? This Reggio Emilia inspired community focuses on language, art, and tinkering for younger kids. Best to call to book a tour or trial session.
Why we picked it: It provides a specific, non-generic, English-focused educational play option for toddlers/early primary.
Fitfam Saturdays Morning Exercise Meetup
If you need to burn off some holiday energy, join this English-speaking exercise group for a morning workout. Check the Eventbrite link for the exact meeting spot this week!
Why we picked it: A great, genuinely free, active option for families with older kids/teens who need to move.
親子DIY活動 (Parent-Child DIY Workshop - General Search)
Check local booking sites for available parent-child hands-on classes like baking or goldsmithing this weekend. It's a fantastic way to learn a skill and bond without the pressure of a huge festival.
Why we picked it: This search points to the general category of engaging, hands-on activities that are always great for a weekend.
《巧克力冒險工廠》百老匯魔幻音樂劇 (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Musical)
This is your absolute last chance to see the Broadway adaptation of the classic Roald Dahl story! It features amazing stage tech and magic, making it a true spectacle for the whole family.
Why we picked it: The Taipei run closes this Sunday, so grab those final tickets for this magical, visual treat.
DIY Workshop: Pineapple Cake Making
Skip the generic souvenirs and make your own famous Taiwanese treat! This hands-on class at a famous bakery is fun, delicious, and uniquely Taipei.
Why we picked it: A classic DIY activity that connects kids to local food culture.
National Palace Museum - Last Chance for Key Exhibitions
If you're willing to take a high-speed rail trip south, two key exhibitions are closing on Jan 4th! '甲子萬年' and '抵岸' offer incredible cultural depth for older kids.
Why we picked it: It's the final day for two major, high-quality museum exhibitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Taipei this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04, 2026), you can enjoy free entry to the Yoshitomo Nara: All Within the Detour exhibition at Huashan 1914 Creative Park (reservation required) and potentially catch lingering lights at the 2025 Taipei Xmas displays. Also, check for community group activities like the Fitfam Saturdays Morning Exercise Meetup.
Is there anything fun indoors for a rainy Sunday (Jan 4th)?
The 2026 TAIPEI INT'L AUTO SHOW at Nangang Exhibition Center is a huge, completely indoor option for Sunday. For culture, the 《巧克力冒險工廠》 musical is having its final performance on Sunday, Jan 4th, so book fast!
What's a unique, non-touristy activity for my 8-year-old?
Try booking a DIY Workshop for Pineapple Cake Making at Kuo Yuan Ye Museum of Cake & Pastry, or look for a Soap Making Workshop in the Dadaocheng area; these are genuinely local experiences that aren't just on the main tourist path.