Hungry Ghost Festival

The Lunar 7th month is also known as the Hungry Ghost month. During this period, many families and business setup will worship to their ancestors as a gesture of filial piety and also make offerings to the wandering spirit who is homeless and hungry. Some would even hold a private banquet for this occasions. 

This year, the Lunar 7th month commences on 29th July 2022 and will last till 26th August 2022. The 15th day of the 7th month or known as zhong yuan 中元, which falls on 12 August this year.

In the ritual, items and food displayed for offerings are always in odd numbers like 1 roasted piglet, 3 steamed chicken, 5 hard boiled eggs and etc. Fruits, beverage, biscuits, candy, rice, meat are seen on the offerings. After the ritual, the offered wine or tea will be poured and sprinkle in the circle of rice and paper money will be burned. Many would pray to seek for protection and good fortune. When wishes are fulfilled, the items offered in the following year will be added. Be reminded to fulfill whatever promise you have made during the prayer, if there is any. 

These are the dates auspicious for performing the ritual.

(Avoid using the date if you are born in the year of the zodiac stated on the right column.)