| Ubon Ratchathani hosts a Candle Festival each | | | | the process involved in making these works of |
| year in July to celebrate Buddhist Lent. There are | | | | art. |
| other candle festivals but the one in Ubon is the | | | | You can also take part in the traditional procession |
| grandest and most famous in Thailand. | | | | of the people to their temple. They go to make |
| Most of the activities are held at Tung Sri Muang, | | | | merit. At the same time you will have a chance |
| the city park. There are various events at other | | | | to take in the unique architecture of the temples |
| locations around town as well. | | | | you visit. |
| The Candle Festival has its origin in the | | | | The day before the parade up to 30 main candle |
| ceremonies, traditions and rituals surrounding | | | | float submissions will be staged around Tung Sri |
| Buddhist Lent. During the monsoon season Monks | | | | Muang for visitors to see up close and take as |
| would retire to a temple. The local people would | | | | many photographs as your heart desires. You will |
| make merit by making and giving candles and | | | | be truly amazed at the attention to detail of |
| cloth. | | | | these masterpieces. |
| The event expanded to give local artisans a | | | | An international was sculpture competition has |
| chance to hone their craftsmanship by creating | | | | been added. Teams come to compete from |
| large wax sculptures commemorating the day. | | | | Europe, Australia, Scandinavia and other parts of |
| The highlight of the festival is a parade along | | | | Asia.There is strong competition in this event. To |
| Upparat Road on the day of Buddhist Lent. You | | | | be the winner is prestigious and highly sought |
| will see the creations of the different groups, | | | | after. |
| temples and organizations showcased in the | | | | In the days leading up to the parade and a few |
| procession. | | | | days after, there are vendors, games, rides and |
| During the parade you will not only have a chance | | | | other activities for your enjoyment in and around |
| to view all the wax creations but also many local | | | | the city park and provincial hall. |
| groups will be dressed in traditional clothing and | | | | While you are in Ubon Ratchathani for the festival |
| perform local dance and songs. It is very lively | | | | you can also take in other sights and attractions in |
| and colorful. An event you should definitely | | | | the area. Make the most of your visit it will be |
| experience at least once in your life. | | | | memorable. |
| Before the day of the parade you can tour | | | | You should make plans soon to visit Ubon |
| around Ubon Ratchathani and view the work in | | | | Ratchathani, Thailand and experience Ubon's |
| progress. You will have a chance to see first hand | | | | famous Candle Festival. |