Hungry Ghost Festival in Taiwan

Day:

The Hungry Ghost Festival, also known as the Zhongyuan Jie (中元節) in Taiwan, is celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar, a period often referred to as Ghost Month.

History:

The festival has roots in Buddhist and Taoist traditions. It is believed that during this month, the gates of hell are opened and spirits are free to roam the earth in search of food, entertainment, and possibly to visit their living descendants.

Traditions:

To appease these transient ghosts and ancestors, Taiwanese people engage in several traditional practices:

• Offerings: Families prepare food offerings for the wandering spirits to ensure they are fed and content. These offerings might include traditional dishes, fruits, and snacks.

• Incense and Joss Paper: Burning incense sticks and joss paper (also known as ghost money) is a common practice during this period. The smoke from incense is said to help guide the spirits, while burning joss paper provides them with currency to use in the afterlife.

• Entertainment: Special performances called "Getai" are held where live shows are performed on outdoor stages. These acts are not only for human audiences but also for entertaining the visiting spirits.

• Water Lanterns: Floating water lanterns on rivers or seas is another tradition aimed at directing lost souls back to the afterlife.

Activities on the Day:

On the day of the Hungry Ghost Festival itself:

• People visit temples to pray for protection and good fortune.

• Many families clean their homes thoroughly to create a welcoming space for ancestor spirits.

• Some people avoid swimming or engaging in certain activities due to superstitions about vengeful spirits lingering near water or in other locations.

Throughout Taiwan, these customs blend with local folklore creating a unique cultural experience that pays respect to ancestors while fostering community bonds through shared rituals.