TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei's Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (SSCC) has extended its opening hours to 10 p.m. on a trial basis for much of the summer.
In a press release posted on Saturday (July 2), Taipei's Department of Cultural Affairs announced the cultural park's indoor hours had been extended from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, starting on June 24 and continuing until Sept. 11. The extended hours are timed to coincide with the center's Summer Festival.
(SSCC image)
According to the department, the structures housing the SSCC were built as part of a tobacco factory in 1937. Ten years ago, the factory was converted into a center for cultural and creative exhibitions and performances.
In 2019, the government planned for the center to operate at night, and in 2020 trial runs of evening outdoor yoga and film screenings were well-received. However, due to the pandemic, plans to extend evening operating hours were shelved.
(SSCC image)
The Department of Cultural Affairs pointed out that on June 24, evening hours kicked off as part of its Summer Festival. As part of this festival, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, more than 500 participating artists, teachers, and vendors will provide themed exhibitions, music performances, art installations, food and drink, and other cultural activities.
According to the department, if evening hours run smoothly this summer, the late hours will become permanent next year. When the Taipei Dome opens, Songyan Avenue, which has been closed for 10 years due to construction on the dome, will be reopened to the public.
(SSCC image)
Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) said that there are relatively few evening gathering areas in Taipei and the extended hours are an experiment. Ko said he hoped that once work on the Taipei Dome is completed, the entire Taipei Cultural and Sporting Complex will become a hub of activity for the city.
(SSCC image)
(SSCC image)
