August 07,2024
7th Month Ultimate Guide - How to Celebrate & What to Avoid
The Hungry Ghost Festival, also known as Zhong Yuan Jie, is an important traditional Chinese festival observed during the 7th month of the lunar calendar. In 2024, the Hungry Ghost month will start on 4 August and will end on 2 September. This month-long event is believed to be a time when the spirits of the deceased return to the earthly realm. In this ultimate guide, we will delve into the ways to celebrate as well as the Dos and Don’ts during this upcoming Hungry Ghost Festival in 2024.
How to Celebrate Hungry Ghost Festival
1. Fold Joss Paper Ingots
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One common practice is to fold and burn joss paper sheets as offerings to appease hungry ghosts and provide them with resources in the afterlife.
2. Make Floating Lanterns

Another tradition is to make paper lanterns and float them down a river. This is a way to lead spirits home during the Hungry Ghost Festival. You can make your own floating lantern at home - a fun and easy craft for the whole family. Get them to join!
3. Attend Community Celebrations and Performances
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Look out for special community events during the Hungry Ghost Festival such as Chinese Opera Performances, cultural displays, and other types of stage performances. Explore the significance of these theatrical shows that are believed to entertain and pacify the wandering spirits. Join in on these celebrations and immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
If you’re hosting a community event during the Hungry Ghost Festival, you may check out FoodLine’s Lunar 7th Month Buffet Catering Menus. To get special promotions for your 7th Month orders, read our article: 7th Month Catering Promotions!
4. Prepare a Family Dinner

Prepare a simple and nourishing meal and enjoy it with your family - it is a great way to pay tribute (ensure that extra place is set at the table for the departed). The focus is more on feeding the ancestors rather than on the symbolism of the food.
To make this easier, you can order mini buffets or party sets from FoodLine, allowing you to provide a variety of dishes without the hassle of cooking. This ensures your family can come together and share a meaningful meal in honor of your ancestors.
Recommended Mini Buffet Menus for 7th Month:
1. ECreative Catering Pte Ltd-Deluxe Delight Mini Buffet @ $17.90/pax (11-course)
2. FattyDaddyFattyMummy-Lunar 7th Month Mini Buffet A 10%OFF @$15.99/pax U.P. $17.77/pax (7-course)
3. Bayfront Catering Services - Mini Buffet Value Set Menu A @ $14.80/pax (7-course)
5. Prepare for Company Prayer

Begin by setting up an altar in a clean, quiet area of your office or workspace. The altar should be placed in a location that is accessible and visible to all employees. Place offerings such as fruits, tea, rice, and meat. Traditional offerings often include dishes like roast pork, chicken, and various fruits.
To make the occasion more special and convenient, you can order full buffets from FoodLine, as we have a variety of 7th Month Menus for you to choose from. The food will help ensure there is an abundance of offerings to honor the spirits.
Recommended Full Buffet Menus for 7th Month:
1. International Catering Pte Ltd-Lunar 7th Month 兴旺发 Menu A @$13.80/pax (9-course)
2. The Caterers-(FL Exclusive 10% OFF)-Economical Buffet Lavender @ $12.51/Pax U.P.$13.90/Pax (7-course)
3. Fong Fu Food Catering-Buffet A Ruby Set $13.80 /pax (9-course)
What to Avoid during Hungry Ghost Festival
Observing the dos and don’ts during this month-long occasion is essential to show respect to the spirits and uphold cultural sensitivities. This is also to avoid attracting negative energy. Some things to avoid include:
- Don’t interfere with the offerings: Respect others’ altars and offerings and avoid touching, stepping or disturbing them without permission
- Avoid negative or disrespectful comments: be mindful of your words during the festival
- Hanging clothes outside at night
- Swimming in rivers or going near bodies of water
- Taking photographs or videos at night
If you’re looking for more 7th Month menus for your celebration, click here!