The seventh month of the lunar calendar marks what’s known as the “Ghost Month” in Taiwan. During this month, the gates of the underworld open and spirits are released with the freedom to visit their family, loved ones, or just roam around. The 15th of the month is also known as “Ghost Day” when the Zhong Yuan Pudu Festival (中元普渡), or the Hungry Ghost Festival, is held at night. Though traditionally Taoist, the festival also has Buddhist roots.
Since Ghost Month marks the month when ghosts can roam amongst the living, this month is often avoided for any weddings or childbirths, in fear that it may be inauspicious.
While Western societies often view spirits as malicious, in Buddhist Taoist culture, they are but passed away spirits that have not reincarnated yet. Any deceased, good or bad, will become a spirit.