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Dating back to over 2,000 years, we dig into the origins of the Hungry Ghost Festival, how it’s marked in Hong Kong as well as dos and don’ts you should be wary of…
The Hungry Ghost Festival is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated in many communities around the world. In Hong Kong, it’s an especially exciting time to take part in one of the city’s oldest traditions. If you’ve been spotting joss paper burning, opera performances and food offerings, Hong Kong folks are paying homage to their deceased ancestors. If you and your family want to get involved and do your part for some good luck, make sure to leave some offerings of oranges and tea on your sidewalk for those hungry ghosts and read on for the festival’s origins, taboos and more.
Read More: Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival In Hong Kong
The Origins Of The Hungry Ghost Festival
In the seventh month of the lunar calendar (Ghost Month), the Chinese believe hungry ghosts and wandering spirits roam the earth, particularly on the 15th day (Ghost Day). Linked to ancestor worship, citizens have been known to burn fake money and elaborate paper versions of material goods, such as cellphones and even purses so the departed can use them in the afterlife. On the eve of Ghost Day, many families will get together and prepare a large feast for the hungry ghosts, in order to be left in peace. Some may also go to the temple and bring offerings, often their ancestors’ favourite foods.
Read More: 100 Things To Do In Hong Kong With Kids And Families
When Is The Hungry Ghost Festival 2024 & Things To Do In Hong Kong
Ghost Month runs from Sunday, 4 August to Tuesday, 2 September this year with the main Ghost Day on Sunday, 18 August, 2024. Worshippers can be seen holding rituals and ceremonies to pay tribute to spirits – be respectful when observing worshippers.
You can also take the kids to see the Hungry Ghost Festival ceremony in Victoria Park from Friday, 23 to Sunday, 25 August or temple rituals and Chinese opera at Yuen Da Temple in Chai Wan (throughout Ghost Month).
Read More: Sassy Mama’s Guide To Festivities Around The Globe
Hungry Ghost Festival Dos & Don’ts
There are a handful of taboos and beliefs about the Hungry Ghost Festival, and to stay on the safe side, below are things to avoid during this ghostly month!
- Stay away from open waters (sorry no swimming for you in this heat!)
- If you have an all-black wardrobe, switch things up! Black and red are believed to attract spirits!
- Avoid the number “four” for its resemblance to the word “death” in Cantonese
- Don’t make major life decisions like starting a new job, moving to a new house and so forth during this month as it’s believed to be an inauspicious time
- Don’t dry your laundry outside overnight
- Steer away from the last bus or train home, the empty seats are believed to be occupied by spirits!
- Avoid taking photos at night (we’ve watched enough horror movies for this!)
- Don’t sleep facing the mirror or anything reflective
In this Ghost Month, why don’t you prove to your friends that you’re not one of the Ghost People (gweilo) and are now well and truly a Hongkonger at heart?!
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