Candle Festival

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July 4 - 8, 2001
Venue : Thung Si Muang Park, Udon Ratchathani

Khao Phansa, or the Buddhist Lent, is the time when all Buddhist monks retreat to the temples. In Ubon Ratchathani, the unique festival which is held each year serves as a cultural showcase highlighting the skills of local artisans and folk traditions such as the various acts of religious devotion. Elaborately carved beeswax candles of various sizes and shapes are exhibited in high-spirited processions around the city before being presented to local temples. In addition to the religious rites being observed, the display of the candles at Thung Si Muang Park throughout the days of the festival. Other elements interest include cultural demonstrations of folk skills, opportunities to purchase local products made by the community, beauty contests and stage dramas re-enacting the story of the life of the Lord Buddha.

Program

- July 4, 2001 (Tuesday)
Procession of the carved beeswax candles to the Chalerm Phrakiat Court with the accompanying religious rites conducted.
"Asalha Puja" refers to the day the Lord Buddha's first sermon to his first five disciples after attaining Enlightenment more than 2,500 years ago. Candlelit processions and circumambulations around the major temples are part of the religious rituals held to mark this occasion which falls on the full-moon day of the eighth lunar month.

- July 5 - 8, 2001
Local products made by the community are available on sale at the Sala Prachakom. Beauty contests and a stage drama depicting the story of the life of the Lord Buddha.

- July 6, 2001 (Thursday)
The opening ceremony is held at the Sala Klang, the provincial centre The Candle Procession starting out from Upraj Road to Chayangkul Road Free admission to all event activities. Special arena seating is available for viewing the Candle Procession at 200 Baht per person.

Contact Information :
TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Phone : (045) 243-770-1
Fax : (045) 243-771