The Ghost Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, is observed in China, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam every year on the 15th day of the 7th month in the Chinese calendar, with South China celebrating it on the 14th day. This festival is rooted in Buddhist, Taoist, and Chinese folk traditions, commemorating the time when the realms of Heaven and Hell are believed to be open, allowing spirits of the deceased to wander among the living. During the month, practitioners engage in special rituals to appease these hungry ghosts, including burning joss paper, which symbolizes goods that the spirits can use. The festival culminates with offerings of food for the ghosts, and loud entertainment shows, such as Chinese opera and dramas, are organized to attract them. Additionally, people float water lanterns or place them outside their homes to guide the spirits back. Various taboos are observed during this time, such as avoiding nighttime strolls and refraining from swimming or moving to a new house.