Traditionally, it is believed that ghosts haunt the island of Taiwan for the entire month of August from dawn on the first day of the month, when the gates of the netherworld open, ending on the 29th day of the month, when the gates close. The Ghost Festival combines the Buddhist Ullambana Festival and the Taoist Ghost Festival, both of which honour dead spirits.

Elaborate ceremonies take place throughout the month in an effort to satiate the hungry ghosts, with highlights including folk art performances and the 'opening of the gates of hell' to release a variety of burning water lanterns. During the festival, Taiwanese families traditionally make offerings to their ancestors, as well as the ghosts of the underworld.

Although the Ghost Festival is celebrated throughout the country, it is the port city of Keelung that hosts the biggest and most popular event. Keelung's festival originated during the bloody feud between immigrants from Fujian's Zhangzhou and Quanzhou some 150 years ago and is now celebrated in a variety of ways.

The release of water lanterns is the climax of Keelung's ghost festival where lanterns of various shapes and sizes, including ships, houses and temples, are paraded through the city before being released into the sea. It is believed that the further the lantern floats from the shore, the luckier and more prosperous the lantern's owner will be.

Although the month includes a host of celebrations and festivals, many people throughout Taiwan still refrain from doing anything too risky in the month of August, such as starting a business or staying out after dark.

The Ghost Festival is just one event in Taiwan's packed festival calendar for 2013, known as 'Time for Celebration.' Other upcoming events include the popular Taiwan Cycling Festival and the Sun Moon Lake Music Festival.

For further information on Taiwan please visit http://eng.taiwan.net.tw

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For further information on Taiwan please visit http://eng.taiwan.net.tw

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