Each year guided by the moon’s cycle, Vietnam celebrates a version of the Christian Old Soul’s Day. On the 15th day of the 7th lunar month Vu Lan day or ‘Wandering Souls’ day is commemorated by the nation when the gates of hell are opened to allow the ghosts and spirits of the dead to return to earth and visit their families and homes. Traditionally a Buddhist festival, Wandering Souls Day is the second biggest festival in Vietnam. Families make special offerings to the spirits, they visit the graves of their ancestors, visit pagodas and burn votive offerings. People seek forgiveness of the sins of the dead so that they can be spared the tortures of hell. Offerings are also provided for the lonely spirits who have no one in order to placate the angry and hungry ghosts. Dr Trần Đoàn Lâm, Editor in Chief of The Gioi publishers in Hanoi explains the reason for this festival, how it originated and the important role it plays in the annual lives of the Vietnamese people.
