The Yu Lan Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, is one of Hong Kong’s most meaningful cultural traditions. For centuries, it has been believed that during the seventh lunar month, the gates between the living and the spirit world open, allowing restless souls to visit. Families light incense and burn joss paper offerings to honour their ancestors and bring peace to wandering spirits.

The festival has been observed in Hong Kong since the 1860s and continues to be a reminder of respect, remembrance, and community. The official date of the Hungry Ghost Festival this year is September 6. To celebrate further, the Yu Lan Cultural Festival will run from September 12–14 at the Moreton Terrace Temporary Playground near the Hong Kong Central Library. Visitors will be able to learn about traditional customs, from tea serving and calligraphy to Chiuchow Buddhist ceremonies and puppetry.

Through these activities, the festival ensures that the city’s rich traditions continue to inspire new generations.