Asian Traditions: The Ghost Festival

*Disclaimer: This article is written from the perspective of a Singaporean Chinese. There are slightly different cultures and interpretations of the Hungry Ghost Festival in different Asian countries.

The Ghost Festival, or more commonly known as the seventh month by the locals, is a tradition that is observed on the seventh month of the lunar calendar. In the gregorian calendar, this corresponds to the dates from 22nd August to 19th September for 2017. In Chinese culture, the Chinese believed that the gates of hell open during this month, and the deceased, in their spiritual form, will visit the living world.

The tradition is characterised by the living preparing food offerings and burning joss paper and incense for the ghosts, usually placing them by the roadside. This is regarded as a form of respect to the spirits that are roaming the living world during the month.

Image by ABS-CBN

In Singapore, there are usually pop-up concert locations. These are not your typical pop concert performances. They are usually performed by "Getai" singers, who usually sing in dialects. Customarily, the first row of seats of these concert locations are always left empty; They are left open for the spirits to "sit" and to enjoy the concert.

Image by Ricky Lee

I am sure there are other cultures that celebrate the Ghost Festival as well. Perhaps some of you can share what are your traditions? Feel free to comment below!