Hungry Ghost Festival — Meaning, Rituals, and Modern Practices in Singapore
In Singapore, the Hungry Ghost Festival (中元节, Zhong Yuan Jie) is a time when the living honour their ancestors and offer prayers to wandering spirits. More than just a tradition, it reflects the deep-rooted values of filial piety, respect, and remembrance.
At Embrace Funeral Services, we understand that cultural traditions like the Hungry Ghost Festival are an important part of how families connect with their heritage — and how they keep the memory of loved ones alive.
What is the Hungry Ghost Festival?
The Hungry Ghost Festival falls on the 15th day of the 7th month in the Lunar Calendar — usually in August or September in the Gregorian calendar.
According to Taoist and Buddhist beliefs, it is the time when the gates of the underworld open, allowing spirits to roam the earth. Families prepare offerings to:
- Feed and comfort their ancestors.
- Help wandering spirits find peace.
- Gain blessings and protection.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The festival’s origins can be traced back to both Buddhist Ullambana traditions and Taoist Zhong Yuan customs. While the stories differ, the message is similar:
- Compassion for the departed — even for souls without descendants to care for them.
- Gratitude towards ancestors for the life and blessings we enjoy today.
In Singapore, this festival has evolved to blend religion, folklore, and community gatherings, often organised by neighbourhood associations.
Traditional Practices in Singapore
- Prayers and Offerings
Families set up tables with:
- Incense and joss sticks.
- Food (rice, fruits, meats).
- Drinks and tea.
- Hell money and paper effigies.
- Burning of Offerings
Burning paper offerings — such as clothes, houses, and even modern “luxuries” like paper cars — is believed to provide these items to loved ones in the afterlife.
- Street Opera (Getai)
Getai performances are a unique Singaporean twist — lively song-and-dance shows that entertain both spirits and humans.
Fun fact: The front row seats are always left empty for the spirits.
- Community Feasts
Some communities hold free meals or distribute food as a way of sharing blessings.
Modern Adaptations
Today, many families choose environmentally friendly offerings, such as:
- Online memorial platforms instead of physical burning.
- Smaller, symbolic offerings to reduce smoke and waste.
- Community remembrance events organised by temples and clan associations.
Embrace Funeral Services supports families who wish to balance tradition with sustainability, ensuring cultural integrity while being environmentally conscious.
Guidelines and Considerations During the Hungry Ghost Festival
During the Hungry Ghost Festival, many families observe certain customs and traditions that are believed to show respect and care for ancestors and spirits. Some commonly followed practices include:
- Limiting late-night outings during the festival period.
- Being mindful around offerings placed at roadside altars.
- Exercising caution when near natural water bodies.
- Considering auspicious timing for major life events such as moving house or weddings.
These practices vary among individuals and communities, reflecting personal beliefs and cultural interpretations. At Embrace Funeral Services, we respect the diversity of customs and encourage families to observe traditions in ways that feel meaningful and appropriate to them.
How Embrace Funeral Services Can Support You
While the Hungry Ghost Festival is not the same as a funeral, it is deeply tied to ancestral remembrance.
Embrace can assist with:
- Memorial set-up for home or community spaces.
- Guidance on Taoist or Buddhist rituals.
- Custom memorial events for those who wish to mark the occasion meaningfully.
Conclusion
The Hungry Ghost Festival is more than a superstition — it’s a celebration of family bonds, compassion, and gratitude. At Embrace Funeral Services, we honour these traditions while helping families adapt them to modern life.
Whether you follow every ritual or choose a simpler remembrance, the essence remains the same — to show love and respect to those who came before us.
Need help organising a meaningful remembrance during the Hungry Ghost Festival? Contact Embrace Funeral Services at 96921100 or visit https://embracefuneralservices.com.sg to speak with our experienced team.