Discover the magic of Ubon Ratchathani’s Candle Festival
Tucked away in northeastern Thailand, Ubon Ratchathani comes alive each year with its renowned Candle Festival—a vibrant celebration that highlights the region’s rich culture and artistic heritage.
This year’s festival will take place on 20 and 21 July, transforming the city into a dazzling display of light, colour, and intricate artistry.
The Candle Festival signifies the start of the three-month Buddhist Lent, a period dedicated to deep reflection and spiritual renewal for Buddhists.
Long before the advent of electricity, Thai people would offer candles to illuminate the darkness, allowing monks to study Buddhist teachings.
The wax sculptures and candles featured in the festival represent offerings and the pursuit of merit, integral to Buddhist practice during Lent.
While the candle festival is celebrated across Thailand, Ubon Ratchathani province always takes centre stage with its spectacular wax sculpture procession.
Embracing tradition
To fully appreciate the essence of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, a visit to the local temples is a must. Before the grand procession, temples become the epicentre of festivities, adorned with intricate wax sculptures that illustrate the dedication and craftsmanship of the local community.
Wat Thung Si Muang is a must-visit during the festival. Known for its beautiful wooden library perched above a pond to safeguard ancient manuscripts, this temple becomes a vibrant hub of activity.
The grounds are adorned with stunning wax sculptures, often depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and the life of the Buddha.
Traditional music and dance performances further enrich the experience, making a visit to Wat Thung Si Muang both visually and culturally captivating.
Another temple well worth visiting is Wat Phrathat Nong Bua, notable for its architecture inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India.
During the festival, Wat Phrathat Nong Bua showcases elaborate wax sculptures renowned for their intricate details and thematic depth.
The serene environment of the temple allows visitors to appreciate these artistic masterpieces in a tranquil setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the main procession.
Once the wax sculptures are complete with beautiful and elaborate floats, the candle floats are set for the parade around the city centre.
The breathtaking procession showcases magnificent wax sculptures, crafted with meticulous precision by local artisans.
These sculptures depict various Buddhist themes and mythical scenes. The procession is not merely a display of artistic prowess but also a profound expression of cultural and spiritual devotion.
Visitors are treated to a visual feast as they witness these elaborate creations parading through the streets, each telling a story from the life of the Buddha or intricate Jataka tales.
A feast for the eyes
During the festival, Wat Thung Si Muang transforms into a gallery of wax sculptures, attracting visitors to witness its artistic and cultural grandeur.
The temple, already known for its serene surroundings, becomes a focal point of the festival, showcasing elaborate wax creations that highlight the skill and devotion of local artisans.
The candle displays at Wat Thung Si Muang are meticulously carved to depict intricate scenes from Buddhist mythology and the life of the Buddha.
Each piece tells a story, capturing moments from the Buddha’s journey towards enlightenment and various significant episodes from Buddhist teachings.
The level of detail in the carvings is extraordinary, with every figure, expression, and element crafted to perfection.
As dusk falls, Ubon Ratchathani transforms into a vibrant cultural celebration. The evenings are filled with traditional Thai music and dance performances, where local artists in colourful costumes captivate the audience with their graceful movements to the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments.
Interactive cultural showcases, including demonstrations of traditional crafts such as candle carving and local weaving provide a deeper appreciation for the intricate details that go into the festival’s centrepiece sculptures.
Food stalls line the streets, offering a variety of local delicacies from spicy Isaan sausages to refreshing som tam (papaya salad), creating a night market atmosphere where visitors can sample diverse dishes while enjoying the festive ambience.
A spectacle of light and sound
Enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the candle festival, the dazzling “VIJITR 5 @Ubon Ratchathani” light art exhibition brings a splash of colour and artistic flair to the city.
This spectacular event features a mesmerising light and sound show that seamlessly blends Projection Mapping techniques with modern multimedia.
Brilliant beams of colourful light illuminate historical landmarks such as Thung Si Muang, the City Pillar Shrine, the Ubon Ratchathani National Museum, Wat Supattanaram Worawihan, and the Ho Trai Klang Nam library.
The exhibition beautifully showcases the rich heritage and local traditions of Ubon Ratchathani, making it a must-see attraction for culture and art enthusiasts.
Engaging with the local community during these nighttime activities provides a richer understanding of the traditions and significance behind the celebrations.
Many temples hold special evening prayers and ceremonies, offering profound insights into the religious aspects of the festival and the local way of life.
From the grand Candle Procession to the intricate wax sculptures at local temples and the vibrant night activities, the candle festival offers a diverse and immersive experience.
Whether you are a cultural enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere, the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival is an event not to be missed.
By Thai PBS World Feature Desk
