Candle Festival
The Candle Festival starting the Buddhist Lent
The Buddhist Lent, is the time in Thailand when all Buddhist monks remain in the temples. In Ubon Ratchathani, the beginning of this three month period is observed by a unique candle-lit festival which highlights artistic skills as well as religious devotion. Beautifully carved beeswax candles, some several metres tall, are exhibited in high-spirited colourful processions around the city before being presented to local temples.
candle1
The festival reflects the devout belief in Buddhism, time-honoured traditions and rituals associated with "Khao Phansa", as well as the beauty and uniqueness of the art and culture of the North-eastern region.
The city is home to a great number of craftsmen in several fields who continue to produce exceptional work in contemporary art, local handicrafts, Buddhist art and architecture, particularly the ornate work that adorn the temples of Ubon Ratchathani. The magnificent wax candles highlighted during The Candle Festival is the media by which local artisans express their artistic talent.
During the days of the festival, special displays, demonstrations and cultural presentations offer insight into local traditions, beliefs and way of life. Visitors can see how candles for religious worship are cast, learn about meditation techniques at Wat Nong Pa Phong Temple, and traditional chanting.