When is Hungry Ghost Festival 中元节

The Hungry Ghost Festival, also known as the Ghost Month, is an annual traditional Chinese festival that takes place on 15th day of the seventh lunar month (正日）. The lunar calendar is widely followed in various East Asian cultures, including China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. This day is considered one of the most significant events on the Chinese calendar, as it honours and appeases the spirits of the deceased ancestors and restless souls.

Who are these Hungry Ghost?

According to Chinese belief, during the Ghost Month, the gates of the afterlife are opened, allowing deceased spirits to roam freely in the world of the living. These wandering souls are known as “hungry ghost”, and they are believed to be in a state of perpetual hunger and suffering, unable to find peace due to unresolved issues or unfinished business in their previous lives. Some hungry ghosts are also thought to be ancestors who were not properly honoured or have no living descendants to remember and pray for them.

What activities are there during this period?

The Ghost Month lasts for the entire lunar month, but the 15th day, which is the full moon day, is the peak of the celebrations and is known as the Hungry Ghost Festival. On this day, families and communities come together to pay tribute to their deceased ancestors and appease the hungry ghosts. Various rituals and ceremonies are performed to show respect, provide offerings, and seek protection from malevolent spirits.

During the Hungry Ghost Festival, people engage in activities such as:

• Making offerings: Families set up altars at home or visit temples to make offerings of food, fruits, incense, and other items to their ancestors and deceased loved ones. These offerings are meant to nourish and comfort the hungry ghosts, and it is believed that they will bring blessings and good fortune to the living.
• Burning joss paper: Joss paper, also known as “ghost money” or Kim Zua (金纸）, is burned as offerings to the spirits. It is believed that when the joss paper is burnt, the spirits can use the money in the afterlife, providing them with the necessities they need.
• Theatrical performances: In some places, Chinese opera and other performances such as getai performances (歌台）are held as a form of entertainment for both the living and the spirits. It is believed that these performances can please the wandering ghosts and prevent them from causing mischief or harm.
• Avoiding outdoor activities at night: It is a common belief that wandering ghosts are more active at night, so many people avoid staying outside or engaging in risky activities during the Ghost Month, especially on the 15th day.

The Hungry Ghost Festival is not only a time of remembrance and respect for the deceased but also an occasion to reflect on the impermanence of life and the importance of filial piety. By honouring their ancestors and paying tribute to the spirits, the living hope to receive blessings, protection, and goodwill in return. It is a significant and culturally rich festival that plays an integral part in the lives of many Chinese communities around the world.