Similar to Halloween and Dia de los Muertos in North America, Chinese, Tawainese and Buddhist traditions have a “Ghost Month,” which takes place in the seventh lunar month. During Ghost Month (in August), it is believed that the spirits of ancestors leave the Underworld and wander the Earth visiting relatives and descendants. The living celebrate and pay homage to the dearly departed with elaborate meals and the releasing of miniature paper boats and lanterns on water – which signifies giving directions to the lost ghosts and spirits.
