In the Philippines, especially those in the construction and real estate industry, August is more than just a rainy month. It’s a time when groundbreaking ceremonies are put on hold, new property sales slowdown, and even renovation projects hit a pause. This is the period of Ghost Month, and while it’s steeped in tradition, there’s a practical side to understanding its impact.
But what exactly is it, and how does it relate to your next home project?
What Is Ghost Month?
The Hungry Ghost Festival, or more commonly known as Ghost Month, is a deeply rooted Chinese tradition that occurs during the seventh month of the lunar calendar. In 2025, it begins on August 23 and ends on September 21.
According to ancient belief, the “gates of the afterlife” are opened during this time, allowing spirits to roam the human world. These wandering spirits, particularly those without families to care for them, are known as “hungry ghosts”. People make offerings of food, incense, and joss paper to appease them and ensure a peaceful return to the spirit world.
A Filipino-Chinese Tradition with a Nationwide Impact
Chinese culture has been deeply engrained in the Philippines with Chinese immigrants and traders having arrived even before the Spanish colonization. The Philippines’ Chinatown in Binondo was also the oldest one in the world, having been founded in December 8, 1594. Even Philippine national hero Jose Rizal was of Chinese descent in his ancestry.
While the tradition originates from Chinese culture, its influence is widespread throughout the Philippines, particularly in the business and real estate sectors. For many Chinoys, observing Ghost Month is a matter of respect and a way to avoid bad luck. Large business deals, grand openings, and other major transactions are often postponed until after the month has passed.
This sentiment has permeated beyond the Filipino-Chinese community. The respect for spirits and pamahiin (superstitions) is a deep part of Filipino-Chinese culture. You’ll hear many people say it’s bad luck to start anything big, like a new business or a home renovation, during this time.
Ghost Month and Your Next Project: What to Do (and What to Avoid)
Understanding Ghost Month isn’t just about superstition; it’s about smart project management. Here’s a quick guide to navigating this quiet period:
What to Avoid:
- Buying or Selling a Property: Many people, especially those involved in real estate, believe that major property transactions during Ghost Month can lead to financial misfortune. It’s often advised to wait until after the period to close a deal.
- Starting a New Construction or Renovation: The noise and disruption of a new build are believed to be disrespectful to the wandering spirits. It’s why many contractors and developers delay groundbreaking ceremonies or major renovation starts until September.
- Major Home Improvements: Even for small-scale DIY projects, starting a new, significant improvement is often discouraged. It’s thought to bring bad fortune to the new build.
What You Can Do:
- Plan and Design: The downtime during Ghost Month is the perfect opportunity to focus on the things you can do. Finalize your design plans, gather your materials, and get all your permits in order. This is a great time for research, budgeting, and detailed project planning.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Smaller, essential maintenance tasks are not discouraged. Use this time to fix minor leaks, patch up a wall, or do some landscaping.
- Clean and Organize: Decluttering and organizing your space can be a great way to prepare for a renovation without the risks associated with a new start. A clean space is a welcome space, and that’s good energy regardless of the month!
In conclusion, Ghost Month is a period of reflection and respect. Instead of seeing the slowdown as a setback, we at JuanToBuild.com see it as an opportunity. It’s a chance to pause, plan meticulously, and ensure that when the time is right, your project will begin with a strong foundation and a clear vision. By honoring tradition, you’re also giving yourself the gift of a well-planned, successful build.
