Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival | Gulf of Thailand

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival – Thailand’s Grandest Buddhist Candle Celebration

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival (งานแห่เทียนพรรษาอุบลราชธานี) is Thailand’s most famous and elaborate Buddhist candle festival, held annually in Ubon Ratchathani Province. Taking place during Asalha Bucha Day and Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent), the festival features massive, intricately carved wax sculptures, grand processions, traditional performances, and deep religious significance.

This festival marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa), a time when monks retreat to their temples for three months of meditation and study during the rainy season. The event is one of the most spectacular cultural celebrations in Thailand, attracting thousands of visitors and showcasing the province’s rich artistic heritage.

Key Features of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival

1. The Giant Wax Candle Sculptures

The highlight of the festival is the gigantic, hand-carved wax sculptures that can reach heights of several meters. These masterpieces are:

• Created by skilled artisans, using traditional Thai and Buddhist artistic motifs.
• Carved with detailed figures of deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Buddhist mythology.
• Often shaped into enormous candle floats, some featuring Buddha images, Naga serpents, Garuda, and celestial beings.
• Made from pure beeswax and synthetic wax, sometimes mixed with wood or metal for structural support.

These elaborate candles are later presented to local temples as offerings, symbolizing the light of wisdom in Buddhism.

2. Grand Candle Procession & Parade

One of the festival’s most exciting events is the candle parade, held on Khao Phansa Day in central Ubon Ratchathani. The parade features:

• Massive candle floats, each representing different temples, communities, and organizations.
• Dancers in traditional Isan costumes, performing Thai and Lao-style dances.
• Musicians playing traditional instruments, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Beautifully decorated elephants, a rare and majestic sight in the parade.
• A competition for the most beautifully crafted candle sculpture, judged based on creativity and artistic excellence.

The parade route passes through the city center, allowing thousands of spectators to admire the breathtaking craftsmanship up close.

3. Cultural Performances & Local Traditions

The festival also includes various cultural activities and traditional performances, such as:

• Isan folk dances and traditional music performances.
• Candle-carving demonstrations, where visitors can watch artisans at work.
• Buddhist ceremonies in temples, including candle offerings and merit-making rituals.
• Night markets and food stalls, selling local Isan delicacies, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

This event is not only a celebration of Buddhist faith but also a showcase of Isan culture and craftsmanship.

Religious & Spiritual Significance

The Candle Festival is deeply rooted in Thai Buddhist traditions, marking the beginning of the three-month Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa). During this period:

• Monks remain in their temples for meditation and study, following an ancient monastic tradition.
• Devotees offer candles to temples, symbolizing enlightenment, wisdom, and guidance on the path to Nirvana.
• The act of giving candles is considered a highly meritorious deed, bringing blessings and good fortune.

The festival blends Buddhist devotion with artistic expression, making it one of the most unique and spiritual celebrations in Thailand.

Best Time to Visit & Festival Dates

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival is held annually in July, coinciding with:

• Asalha Bucha Day (วันอาสาฬหบูชา) – Celebrates Buddha’s first sermon.
• Khao Phansa Day (วันเข้าพรรษา) – Marks the start of Buddhist Lent.

Exact dates vary each year based on the Thai lunar calendar, but the main events usually occur over 2–3 days in mid-July.

How to Get to Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani is located in northeastern Thailand (Isan region) and is easily accessible by air, train, or bus.

• By Air:
  • Ubon Ratchathani International Airport (UBP) has direct flights from Bangkok (1-hour flight).
• By Train:
  • Trains from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Ubon Ratchathani take around 8–10 hours.
• By Bus:
  • Buses from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal take around 9–10 hours.

Once in the city, visitors can use tuk-tuks, songthaews, or taxis to reach the festival areas.

Where to Stay in Ubon Ratchathani

During the festival, accommodations fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended. Options include:

• Luxury Hotels: Sunee Grand Hotel, Ubon Buri Hotel & Resort.
• Mid-Range Hotels: The Bliss Ubon, De Lit Hotel.
• Budget Options: Local guesthouses and homestays.

For a more immersive experience, some visitors stay at temple lodgings (Wat Pa Nanachat) for meditation retreats.

Other Attractions in Ubon Ratchathani

While visiting for the Candle Festival, explore some of Ubon Ratchathani’s top attractions:

• Wat Phra That Nong Bua – A stunning white and gold temple with a unique chedi.
• Wat Thung Si Muang – Famous for its ancient wooden scripture hall on stilts.
• Sam Phan Bok (Thailand’s Grand Canyon) – A breathtaking natural rock formation along the Mekong River.
• Pha Taem National Park – Known for its prehistoric cave paintings and scenic cliffs.
• Huai Luang Waterfall – A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall perfect for nature lovers.

Conclusion

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival is Thailand’s most spectacular Buddhist candle celebration, blending artistic craftsmanship, religious devotion, and cultural heritage into one unforgettable event. Whether you’re drawn by the elaborate wax sculptures, the grand parade, or the spiritual significance, this festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Thailand’s northeastern region.