The 14th day of the 7th lunar month is suitable for burning paper. It mainly depends on the local customs. Some places celebrate it on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, while others celebrate it on the 14th. It is best to burn the paper after dinner, when the sun has set and it is completely dark, usually between 9 p.m. and midnight. During the day, the paper cannot be collected. It is better not to use printed paper in stacks; instead, yellow grass paper is recommended.
For example, people in Guangxi usually celebrate earlier on the 14th day of the 7th lunar month. Customs vary by region. Generally, people believe that the night of the 14th day of the 7th lunar month to the 15th day is considered the Ghost Festival. Some say that the 14th day is the Ghost Festival, while the 15th day is the Zhongyuan Festival. The earliest records of the 14th day can be traced back to Taoism.
Do not go out at night on the 14th day of the 7th lunar month
It is best not to go out at night on the 14th day of the 7th lunar month, especially not to take children out. Because the ritual activities are held at night, with firecrackers and burning paper money everywhere, people who are easily frightened might get scared. On the other hand, the temperature difference between day and night gradually increases, and the sudden cold weather brings a chilly wind. If you stay outdoors too late, it is easy to catch a cold. Therefore, it is better to avoid going out. If you do go out, make sure to return early.
Do not touch others' shoulders randomly
This taboo is related to folklore. It is believed that everyone has three fires on their body, gathered on the shoulders and head, which prevent ghosts from approaching. Therefore, randomly touching someone's shoulder during the Ghost Festival, when ghosts are most active, is considered as trying to extinguish their fire, which could bring trouble from ghosts.
Do not take photos at night
The Ghost Festival is not only a way to remember ancestors but also a time to pay homage to the deceased and pray for blessings. Therefore, it is best not to take random photos at night during the festival. This is not only disrespectful to ancestors but could also result in capturing something unlucky.
Do not insert chopsticks vertically into the center of the rice
This action resembles the way incense is placed in an incense burner, and such behavior might be interpreted as a form of worship.
