The Chinese believe that in the seventh month of the Lunar calendar, the gates of hell are open and spirits are released and roam among the living. It’s a lively festival all around Penang, with various religious activities, Chinese opera performances (sometimes referred to as Ko-Tai), puppet theatres and more staged to entertain the spirits. For more information on where to catch performances, head to the Penang Tourism Board’s website.
If you don’t already have plans for the long weekend ahead, here's a list of activities to check out, including creative markets, traditional Chinese performances and the last few George Town Festival events.