This July, the province of Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand, will be celebrating its annual Candle Festival from 11-21 July, 2014. The festival which traditionally marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent shows the local people’s devotion to Buddhist traditions while allowing them to showcase their renowned candle-carving skills.
The highlight of the much-anticipated events is the parade of beautifully-carved candles and floral floats which takes place on the day of Khao Phansa Day, the starting date for lent when the Monks take to their temples for the rainy season. The procession also features a special Royal Candle sent by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, as well as ornately carved beeswax candles and sculptures made by the local people especially for the festival.
The stunning parades start out from the front of Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram and head along the road as far as Thung Sri Mueang. Taking part in the parade are dancers and musicians in traditional costume. In addition, there is also an International Wax Sculpture Competition in which artists from all over the world come here to display their works of art gracefully.