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A Guide to the Hungry Ghost Festival in Singapore (What to Do So They Don’t Haunt You)
Every seventh lunar month, Singapore’s streets take an eerie yet fascinating glow as the Hungry Ghost Festival or Zhong Yuan Jie unfolds. I get the strange feeling of the air thickening with tradition when offerings line the streets and joss paper is burnt.
I’ve attended lively getai shows and quiet prayers because it’s a mix of spectacle and solemnity.
A little respect goes a long way at the Hungry Ghost Festival. Here’s how you can respectfully participate in this tradition.
History of the Hungry Ghost Festival
The Hungry Ghost Festival traces its roots to ancient Taoist and Buddhist beliefs that, during the seventh lunar month, the gates of the afterlife open and spirits are allowed to roam the earth.
To appease these wandering souls, families prepare food offerings, burn joss paper, and hold rituals for blessings and protection.
Traditional Customs and Modern Rituals
Making Offerings to Ancestors
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During the Hungry Ghost Month, I join my family in setting up food, incense, and joss paper offerings for our ancestors and wandering spirits. It’s our way of showing respect and making sure they are remembered and well taken care of in the afterlife.
Pro tip: Some common offerings include rice, roasted meats, fruits, and treats, along with joss paper, money, clothes, and even paper houses.
Attending Community Performances (Getai)
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I’ve always found getai to be the festival’s liveliest tradition because of the colourful, loud, and often over-the-top performances. A memorable one was a getai extravaganza on Orchard Road back in 2011 with a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees!
With glitzy costumes, catchy tunes, and playful banter, it’s a mix of superstition and pure entertainment for all crowds (spirits included).
Pro tip: Never sit in the front row of a getai, as it’s reserved for wandering spirits!
Past Public Events and Performances
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In recent years, Singapore hosted several notable getai performances during the Hungry Ghost Festival:
- Yishun Street 71 Getai Performance (August 19, 2024): Held at the public square next to Block 724, this event featured vibrant performances from 6 PM to 10.30 PM, attracting both locals and visitors (and even the police!).
- Chinatown Business Association’s 7th Month Dinner (August 2024): This immersive experience included a walking tour of Chinatown, live getai performances, auctions, and an 8-course dinner.
- Community Heartland Getai Shows (August 2024): Various neighbourhoods across Singapore organised getai events featuring lively music, dance, and theatrical performances.
While specific getai events for the year may not yet be announced, they are traditionally held in various neighbourhoods across Singapore, so keep an eye on local listings and community boards as the festival approaches.
Avoiding Taboos
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Growing up, I was always told to avoid swimming, whistling at night, or stepping on roadside offerings during the Hungry Ghost Festival. It was bad luck, they said.
Whether you believe in these taboos or not, it never hurts to play it safe and show a little respect. That’s why I still find myself steering clear of certain activities, even at my age.
Pro tip: Stick to foods offered during the festival like roasted meats, fruit, and rice, but avoid eating from the roadside offerings for the spirits.
Guidelines to Observing the Festival
To respect this tradition, here’s how to mindfully observe the Hungry Ghost Festival.
Respectful Participation
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- Avoid stepping on offerings: Be mindful of joss paper, food, and food on sidewalks and open spaces.
- Do not disturb rituals: If you see people praying or burning offerings, observe from a quiet and respectful distance.
- Dress modestly at rituals: If attending temple prayers or rituals, avoid overly revealing or flashy outfits.
- Be mindful at getai shows: Don’t heckle performers and don’t sit in the front row.
- Lower your voice at night: Many believe that spirits are more active after dark, so avoid loud or disrespectful behaviour near offerings.
- Do not point at or joke about rituals: Even if you’re unfamiliar with the customs, treat them with respect.
- Respect no-touch zones: Some ritual areas or tables with offerings are meant for spirits only. Avoid disturbing them.
Safety Measures
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- Watch out for open flames: Joss paper burning can create sudden bursts of fire, so keep a safe distance, especially in crowded areas.
- Be cautious of hot ashes: Avoid stepping near or touching recently burned offerings, as embers can stay hot for a while.
- Stay alert on roads: Some offerings are placed near sidewalks and roadsides, so be mindful of walking or cycling.
- Avoid playing with incense or candles: These are sacred items and mishandling them can offend worshippers or cause accidents.
- Keep children and pets close: Curious hands or paws can accidentally step on offerings or get too close to fire pits.
- Be aware of smoke sensitivity: If you have respiratory issues, consider wearing a mask when near heavy incense burning.
