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