Taiwanese people launch paper lanterns into to the sea during the Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival, Monday, Aug. 27, 2007, in Keelung, Taipei County, north of Taiwan.

Video. Watch: water lantern festival for the dead

Residents in northern Taiwan released blazing water lanterns to invite ancestors and everyone who perished at sea to come ashore and feast during Hungry Ghost Month.

Residents in northern Taiwan released blazing water lanterns to invite ancestors and everyone who perished at sea to come ashore and feast during Hungry Ghost Month.

Filled with incense papers, these colourful water lanterns resemble ancient Chinese guest houses, an invitation to all underworld spirits to come wash and freshen up before the grand feast.