Traditions of the Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong

The Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, is a fascinating event deeply rooted in traditional Chinese beliefs. According to folklore, this is the time when restless spirits roam the earth, and the living honor them through various rituals. The festival, known as Yu Lan, is similar to Halloween in Europe but is closely tied to the Chinese practice of ancestor worship. The Hong Kong Chiu Chow Community’s Yu Lan Ghost Festival is so significant that it has been listed on China’s national list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. During this time, you can witness a vibrant display of Hong Kong's living culture, with people lighting roadside fires and burning faux money and other offerings for ghosts and ancestors to use in the afterlife. Food is also left out to satisfy the hungry spirits.

Offering, burning of incense during hungry ghost festival in Hong Kong

Photo by Galen Crout on Unsplash

In addition to these rituals, the Hungry Ghost Festival features Chinese opera performances, often held on temporary bamboo stages. These performances celebrate the charitable and pious deeds of the deities, adding a rich cultural dimension to the festivities. For visitors, this festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a traditional event that showcases Hong Kong's cultural heritage. Whether you're watching the opera, observing the rituals, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the Hungry Ghost Festival is a must-see experience that highlights the city's deep-rooted traditions and vibrant community spirit.