Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival (22-23 July)

As I visit more Buddhist Temples and Chinese Shrines scattered throughout Phuket I see more and more of these ornate candles.

These are nothing compared to the candles that are in this festival -

Amazing - image from Richard Barrow  - used with permission

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, the most elaborate of the traditional parading of candles to wats (Thai: แห่เทียน hae thian), is held in Ubon Ratchathani, Isan, Thailand, around the days of Asanha Puja (which commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon) and Wan Kao Pansa (which marks the beginning of vassa).

At the start of the Lenten period, it is traditional in preparation for the rainy season for the devout to donate to items for the personal use of monks, and of candles to dispel gloom in their quarters and elsewhere within the wat. The latter is often the core event of many village celebrations, but is at its most elaborate in the Ubon Ratchathani version, which nowadays is a major event both for residents and for tourists: giant candles are paraded through the town, each representing a local temple, district or other institution. The more elaborate versions are accompanied by scenes ofHindu and Buddhist mythology sculpted in wood or plaster and coated with wax. Of course, these candles are never burned.

the text is from Wikipedia

The candles in the Festival are never lit but the ones above (from Wat Sam Kong - just outside Phuket Town / near Tesco Lotus).

Phi Ta Khon Festival (10 - 12 July)

What can I add to this description of this vent by Richard Barrow - this looks 
FABULOUS...

The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the “Boon Luang” festival. This year it is on 10-12 July 2013.

The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha’s last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha’s penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.

In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as “spirits” wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.


The text and images are Richard Barrow's - more text here.