Candle Festival - 10 -11 July 2006
Thung Sri Muang Ground, Ubon Ratchathani

The festival features a great candle procession which reflects the devout belief in Buddhism, time-honoured traditions and rituals associated with "Khao Phansa" or the Buddhist Lent, as well as the beauty and uniqueness of the art and culture of the Northeastern region.
Ubon Ratchathani 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 adorns the temples of Ubon Ratchathani.
The magnificent wax candles highlighted during the Candle Festival shows how local artists express their artistic talent and religious faith.
During the festival, special displays, demonstrations and cultural presentations offer insight into local traditions, beliefs and way of life. For example, see how candles for religious worship are cast, learn about meditation techniques and traditional chanting.

Visit communities and temples where candles are made and crafted two or three days before the Royal Candle Procession. Learn about the techniques and methods used as well as the designs applied to the candles.

Merit-making
Another important aspect of the Buddhist Lent is to donate candles to the temples for religious worship. It is believed that this act bestows great blessings on the donor. Visitors are welcome to join in this auspicious ritual at all temples.

Wax Candle Procession
The rain retreat is marked by two major religious events : one for the entering of the rainy season called:"Wan Khao Pansa" (วันเข้าพรรษา) and for the exit of the rainy season called "Wan Ok Pansa" (วันออกพรรษา).
The rain retreat season lasts three months.

"Wan Khao Pansa" is a religious feast and a public holiday. The religion feast is described in the "Buddhist ceremonies" section. Wax candle processions take place everywhere in Thailand.

Wax candle procession

During wax candle procession, cars carry huge wax candles. The cars travel through the temple neighborhood and then end in the temple compound.
Wax candle procession

The wax candle procession
("Phitti Hae Prasat Peung" - พิธีแห่ปราสาทผึ้ง) in Ubon Ratchathani is the most famous wax candle procession in Thailand. There is a night and day parade of huge wax candles.
The huge candles are offered to the temple. Those wax candles are big enough to last three months during the rain retreat season.
Wax candle procession.