Ghost Month falls during the seventh month of the Chinese lunar calendar. For some Chinese and Chinese-Filipino families in the Philippines, this time is for honoring ancestors and observing traditions. They also take care when making important decisions.
Not every family observes Ghost Month in the same way. Some follow specific customs, and others follow traditions passed down in their families. If you're curious about Ghost Month, learning about its traditions can be helpful. It shows why certain activities, colors, and symbols are viewed differently during this time.
In this guide, we’ll look at colors people wear or skip during Ghost Month. We’ll also show how to use colorful charms and keychains can be used to ward off bad luck and attract good luck.
What Is Ghost Month?
Ghost Month is rooted in Chinese traditions and falls during the seventh month of the lunar calendar. In Chinese Buddhist and Taoist traditions, it is associated with the return of spirits to the living world. During this time, some families honor their ancestors. They show respect for wandering spirits by preparing food, burning incense, praying, or participating in temple rites.
Some people also observe certain dos and don'ts during Ghost Month. Be careful with big choices. Choose important dates wisely. Also, skip activities that seem unlucky.
There is no single way to observe Ghost Month. Customs vary among families, communities, and beliefs. So, it's best to follow the traditions of your own family or community.
What Colors Can You Wear During Ghost Month?
Some discussions around Ghost Month and feng shui suggest choosing calmer colors such as blue and green. These shades may be preferred over colors that some people believe should be avoided during this period.
There is no official or universally accepted color guide for Ghost Month. Recommendations can vary depending on your family, community, or tradition.
You don't have to change your entire wardrobe to incorporate these colors. A small accessory, such as a charm or keychain, can be an easy way to add a preferred shade to your everyday look.
What Colors Are Traditionally Avoided During Ghost Month?
Some cultural and feng shui traditions suggest skipping black, white, and red. They also advise against very bright or dark colors during Ghost Month.
These recommendations can vary depending on the tradition. For example, black and white may be associated with mourning or death in some Chinese cultural contexts. Red is often linked to good luck in many Chinese traditions. However, during Ghost Month, its meaning can change.
How to Incorporate Colors Into Your Routine
You don't have to change your entire outfit to incorporate your preferred Ghost Month colors. A small colored charm or keychain can be an easy way to add a touch of color to everyday items.
Here are some ways to incorporate different colors into your routine:
- Blue and green are sometimes mentioned in discussions of Ghost Month and feng shui as preferred colors. A blue or green charm can be a subtle choice for your bag, pouch, or keys.
- Yellow is often associated with warmth and positive energy. Add a yellow charm to your ID lace, pencil case, or everyday bag for a simple pop of color.
- Orange brings a cheerful burst of color to your everyday essentials. Try an orange charm on your keys, in your pouch, or on your favorite tote.
- Pink can add a softer, brighter accent to your look. Clip a pink charm onto your pencil case or bag.
- Red is traditionally associated with luck and prosperity in Chinese culture, although some Ghost Month traditions recommend avoiding it. If your family or community considers red a favorable color, a small red charm can be an easy way to incorporate it.
The best part about charms and keychains is that you can switch them around whenever you want.
Get More Charms for Less
Looking to add more color to your everyday essentials? SM Stationery's Charms and Trinkets are available in sets of 2 for ₱269 at SM Stationery stores. Mix and match your favorites and find charms you can add to your bags, pencil cases, pouches, and keys.
Promo is valid until August 31, 2026, at SM Stationery stores.
Add a Touch of Color to Your Ghost Month Routine
Ghost Month traditions can look different from one family or community to another. No matter if you practice these customs or just learn about them, knowing their meaning helps you respect the season.
If you choose to incorporate Ghost Month colors into your routine, small accessories can be a simple option. A charm or keychain lets you add a preferred color to the everyday items you already carry.
SM Stationery's Charms and Trinkets offer plenty of ways to personalize your bags, ID lanyards, pencil cases, pouches, and keys. Explore the collection at SM Stationery and find colors and designs that fit your everyday essentials.
Follow SM Stationery on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest collections, promos, and events.
You can also drop by SM Stationery’s first standalone store, Station by SM at SM Fairview, for more options. Follow Station by SM on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Order from our Stationery Specialist through our online order form or call 0917-8STATIO (0917-8782846).
FAQ
- When does Ghost Month take place?
Ghost Month falls in the seventh month of the Chinese lunar calendar, so its dates vary each year on the Gregorian calendar.
- What do people do during Ghost Month?
Practices vary, but some Chinese and Chinese-Filipino families may honor ancestors, prepare food offerings, burn incense, pray, visit temples, or observe certain customs and precautions during the month.
- What colors can you wear during Ghost Month?
There is no universal list of colors to wear during Ghost Month. Some traditions and feng shui discussions suggest choosing calmer shades such as blue and green. If you're following a specific family or cultural tradition, it's best to follow the color practices you're familiar with.
- What colors should you avoid during Ghost Month?
Some traditions recommend avoiding black, white, red, and particularly bright or dark colors during Ghost Month. These recommendations aren't universal and can vary depending on the tradition being followed.
