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The Ghost Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival or Yu Lan is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th night of the seventh lunar month. During this time, it is believed that the gates of hell open, releasing the hungry ghosts to wander on the earth in search of food. So the people light up the lanterns on roadsides and at the riverside for the convenience of the ghosts. It is a day to honour the departed spirits of ancestors and pray for their safety.
During this unique festival the streets are abuzz with Chinese opera stage shows and puppet shows to entertain the spirits and keep them happy. Floating lanterns filled with Lotus flowers and candles are sent off into water and air, which signifies giving directions to the lost ghosts and spirits. |
