Thailand

The Udon Ratchathani Candle Festival takes place annually to mark the beginning of the Buddhist Lent. It is held on Wan Asanha Bucha, a festival that commemorates Buddha's first sermon.

This festival is a true testament to the population's attachment to traditions and will provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the magic of Thai festivities during your stay.

History of the Candle Festival

It's important to know that the Buddhist Lent lasts for 3 months. During these months, monks confine themselves to temples and focus on texts, meditation, and prayer.

Initially, the population donated not only food to them but also candles to provide them with a more spiritual light. Over the years, some began to carve the candles to give them an even more symbolic appearance.

It was during the reign of King Rama V that the Candle Festival was born, along with the competition for the most beautiful candle.

Attending the Candle Festival

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival now offers an almost magical spectacle. If you have the chance to attend during your trip to Thailand, you won't miss the parade of floats decorated with intricately carved beeswax candles by artists from around the world.

Each float represents a temple, a district, or an institution and showcases the candles that are then entered into the international competition for the most beautiful candle. These artists prepare their meticulous work months in advance to be ready on the big day. The parade is accompanied by dancers and musicians dressed in traditional attire.

In addition to the parade, you'll witness sometimes vibrant performances and cultural shows of sound and light.

Udon Ratchathani is not the only city to host this festival, but it is certainly the largest and most renowned in the country.