15 things you’re ‘not supposed’ to do during the Hungry Ghost Festival

Avoid staying out late

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It is commonly believed that spirits are more active after dark, which is why many choose to avoid outdoor or late-night activities during the Hungry Ghost Festival.

Don’t open umbrellas indoors

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It is believed that spirits may take shelter under open umbrellas. To avoid the possibility of “bringing one home,” people are advised not to open umbrellas indoors – especially within their own homes.

Avoid wearing red

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It is said that hungry ghosts are drawn to the colour red. While it may be a festive shade during National Day, it’s best to keep your red outfits tucked away until after the month has passed.

Don’t talk to yourself alone

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It is believed that speaking aloud when you’re alone may invite unwanted attention from spirits, as they may see it as an opportunity to interact.

Postpone important decisions, like surgery

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This period is traditionally considered inauspicious, so many people prefer to postpone major events or important decisions until after the month has passed.

Avoid group photos of three

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Avoid taking a picture in groups of three. It is traditionally believed that the person in the middle may attract bad luck.

Don’t take photos at night

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Because cameras are traditionally thought to “trap” spirits, it’s often advised to avoid taking photos at night during Hungry Ghost Month.

Apologise before relieving yourself outdoors

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It is customary to apologise before answering the call of nature outdoors. While public toilets are readily available in Singapore, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to relieve yourself outside, tradition says it’s best to say “sorry” first as a sign of respect.

Don’t harm moths, butterflies, or grasshoppers

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Insects such as moths, butterflies, or grasshoppers are traditionally believed to be manifestations of ancestors’ spirits. If one enters your home, it’s advised to let them be.

Avoid whistling at night

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Avoid whistling at night, as it is traditionally believed to attract the attention of spirits.

Don’t hang your clothes out to dry overnight

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According to tradition, Pontianaks –female spirits from Malaysian and Indonesian folklore – are said to linger around clothes left out to dry overnight, especially on racks or bamboo poles.

Keep your forehead uncovered

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In Chinese tradition, the forehead is considered the centre of qi, or life energy, helping to protect you. Pin up your bangs or wear a hairband to keep this area unobstructed.

Avoid talking about ghosts

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Talking about spirits – whether in person or over text – may draw their attention, potentially leading to unwanted experiences.

Don’t look over your shoulder unnecessarily

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If you ever feel a tap on your shoulder or hear your name while alone, tradition advises turning your whole body around, as the “light torches” on your shoulders are believed to offer protection.

Don’t peek under the altar

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It’s considered disrespectful to stare at or disturb items on the altar. Even if you’re curious, it’s best to avoid looking underneath, as this area is meant for offerings and ancestral rituals.

This article was first published in The Singapore Women’s Weekly.