As Buddhist Lent begins in Thailand, so does the Candle Festival of Ubon Ratchathani.
According to Tourism Authority of Thailand, “As the province prepares for the Buddhist Lent, men folk, ordained as well as laymen, with artistic skills set about the task of molding and sculpting Lenten candles. As these works of art are to be presented as Buddhist merit-making offerings, the artisans pour their heart and soul into their craft.”
The international candle and wax sculpture festival takes place July 1, 2011 – July 31, 2011. There will continue to be candle exhibitions, wax sculpture contests and craft fairs. The sculptures appear to be made out of beeswax and are quite intricate. For more information see 6th Thailand International Wax Sculpture Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession Festival.
