Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The Hungry Ghost Festival is a traditional Chinese festival that takes place on the 15th day of the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is also known as Zhongyuan Jie, Ghost Festival, or Ullambana. The festival honors the ghosts of one’s ancestors and is a time to make offerings of food and other items to them.
The origins of the festival can be traced back to the story of Mulian, a Buddhist monk who went to the underworld to save his mother from the torment of being a hungry ghost. The festival has since evolved into a time to remember and pay respects to all deceased relatives.
In Hong Kong, the festival is celebrated with a variety of activities. Offerings are made at temples and homes, and special foods are prepared for the ghosts. Paper money and other items are burned as offerings. Families also hold reunions and visit the graves of their ancestors.
The festival culminates with a parade of lanterns, floats, and dancers through the streets. The parade is a spectacular sight and is a popular tourist attraction.