TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Pingtung County Government said Wednesday the county’s Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival will be held from May 3 to July 6.

The county’s Information and International Affairs Department said the festival will begin with a concert featuring live performances. The agency also noted that this year, for the first time, a concert and fireworks show will be held on Xiaoliuqiu Island, May 17, per CNA.

The annual seafood feast will take place on June 7 in the plaza in front of the county’s Donglong Temple, the department said. Chefs will serve a 10-course meal featuring local ingredients such as bluefin tuna, oilfish, and sakura shrimp. A total of 100 tables will be available, each priced at NT$5,980 (US$185), with registration opening on May 7.

A tuna market featuring over 100 vendors offering seafood, local snacks, and specialty gifts will be held June 14 and 15 at the county’s Pen Bay International Leisure Zone. Organizers also plan themed photo spots and live music performances to enhance the festive atmosphere.

The department added that tuna-shaped popsicles will be sold every Friday and on weekends during the festival at Donggang Fishing Harbor. Limited-edition, eco-friendly shopping bags featuring a tuna theme will also be available for purchase.

A fishing vessel in Pingtung caught a bluefin tuna weighing nearly 225 kilograms and measuring 219 centimeters in length on April 6. The fish was auctioned for approximately NT$2.3 million.

According to the Fishery Agency, Taiwan lands about 2,000 tonnes of bluefin tuna annually, with 60% to 70% of the catch coming from the county’s Donggang Township. Last year, the region recorded 6,548 bluefin tuna catches, marking a 22-year high.