Candle Festival
(10 -11 July 2008 : Thung Sri Muang Ground, Muang District, Ubon Ratchathani)
The festival features a great candle procession which reflects the devout belief in Buddhism, time-honoured traditions and rituals associated with \"Khao Phansa\" or the Buddhist Lent, as well as the beauty and uniqueness of the art and culture of the Northeastern region.
Ubon Ratchathani is home to a great number of craftsmen in several fields who continue to produce exceptional work in contemporary art, local handicrafts, Buddhist art and architecture, particularly the ornate work that adorns the temples of Ubon Ratchathani. The magnificent wax candles highlighted during the Candle Festival shows how local artists express their artistic talent and religious faith.
During the festival, special displays, demonstrations and cultural presentations offer insight into local traditions, beliefs and way of life. For example, see how candles for religious worship are cast, learn about meditation techniques and traditional chanting.
Visit communities and temples where candles are made and crafted two or three days before the Royal Candle Procession. Learn about the techniques and methods used as well as the designs applied to the candles.
Merit-making
Another important aspect of the Buddhist Lent is to donate candles to the temples for religious worship. It is believed that this act bestows great blessings on the donor. Visitors are welcome to join in this auspicious ritual at all temples.
Ubon Ratchathani
River City of Northeast Plateau
Isan is Thailand’s largest plateau. This area is surrounded by a mountain range that from the west to the south and another from the region all the way to the east.
The plateau is nourished by 3 major rivers which are the Mun from the western mountain range, the Chi from the region’ s center and the Mekhong, an international river from the People’s Republic of China. All 3 rivers converge at the lower part of the Region at Ubon Ratchathani. Thus, it can be said that Ubon Ratchathani is the only river city of the Northeast Plateau.
Ubon Ratchathani is an ancient community which grew into a city of the kingdom over 200 years ago. Ubon Ratchathani city itself is situated on the bank of the Mun near the point where it meets the Chi before both rivers flow to join the Mekhong at Amphoe Khong Chiam to the east of the province.
Due to its ideal location and long history, Ubon Ratchathani is an area rich in crops and cultural heritage, and it has a way of life that is deeply intertwined with waterways.
Though Ubon Ratchathani has evolved into a center of transportation, trade and tourism of the Lower Northeast, the people of this riverside city still retain their beautiful centuries-old identity.
