What began as a lighthearted online joke has transformed into a significant cultural event in Taiwan, as thousands are expected to gather on New Year's Eve to participate in a collective crying session. University student Harry Li, the event's originator, never imagined his spontaneous idea would attract such widespread attention.
The concept was initially inspired by a poignant scene from the Taiwanese film "Vive L'Amour," where a character openly weeps. Li's 2023 Facebook post invited people to Taipei’s Da'an Forest Park to cry for half an hour on New Year’s Eve, a stark contrast to conventional festive celebrations. This unique idea quickly garnered interest, with approximately 16,000 users initially expressing their desire to attend.
Despite its unorthodox nature, the first event saw hundreds of people showing up to participate, not just in crying but also in laughter, conversation, and collective release. This year, interest has surged, with over 33,000 individuals planning to join. The Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute is further amplifying the event, organizing an outdoor screening of "Vive L'Amour," featuring appearances by the original cast.
Attendees from the previous year described the event as an inclusive, uninhibited space for emotional expression. Participants shared food, danced, and captured their emotional moments through selfies. Notably, many felt comfortable openly crying, and experiencing support from others. One participant mentioned using an entire pack of tissues. Another shared that the event allowed him to grieve for a lost friend, which the inclusive space provided a sense of comfort.
The event's unexpected popularity underscores a growing awareness of mental health and emotional well-being, particularly in a society often focused on outward displays of happiness. This collective experience, according to organizers, serves as a reminder that it is acceptable to feel sad or lonely, even during times traditionally associated with celebration.
Mental health concerns in Taiwan have prompted government initiatives, including free counseling programs for various age groups. Experts also point out the link between social media use and negative emotions, highlighting the need for events that offer alternative ways of expressing feelings. The event's success reflects a societal shift toward acknowledging that there isn't a single "correct" way to feel or experience an event like New Year’s Eve, making it a powerful moment of collective acceptance.
