Thousands of Hanoians gathered on the streets outside of Phuc Khanh Pagoda since last night in order to attend the Vu Lan and the Amnesty of Unquiet Spirits Festival.

Vu Lan and the Amnesty of Unquiet Spirits are celebrated on the 15th night of the seventh lunar month, which fell on September 5. The ceremony at Phuc Khanh Pagoda was held on September 4 this year.

The pagoda was crowded since early afternoon which force other visitors to sit out by the gate or on the surrounding streets and pavements. The security had to close the entrance to the pagoda early in order to prevent disorder and regulate the traffic.

Volunteers were sent out to arrange chairs for prayers on the streets, which took up half of the width of Tay Son Street and was 300 metres long.

Thousands of people started praying when the ceremony started at 7 pm. Some parents also brought their children along to pray for their ancestors, family and themselves.

Some photos of the Vu Lan and the Amnesty of Unquiet Spirits Festival held at Phuc Khanh Pagoda on September 4:

Visitors search for a seat inside the crowded Phuc Khanh Pagoda The security close the pagoda's entrance early Arranging seats for visitors on the street The rain stops before the ceremony begins       Thousands of people praying on the street.

Dtinews/Dan Viet