If you’re planning a trip to Thailand and want to experience something truly unique—make sure the Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani is on your radar.
Held every year around the start of Buddhist Lent (usually mid-July), this laid-back northeastern Thai city comes to life with glowing candle sculptures, traditional music, and a whole lot of cultural pride. Here’s everything you need to know about one of Thailand’s most breathtaking festivals.
What is the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival?
The Candle Festival (or Khao Phansa) marks the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, when monks retreat to temples for a three-month rainy season meditation period.
But in Ubon, this religious occasion becomes a full-blown cultural celebration—and the star of the show? Giant, hand-carved beeswax candles unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
These aren’t just candles. They’re towering sculptures—some several metres high—carved with intricate scenes from Buddhist mythology. Each one is crafted by local artists, monks, and even school communities in the weeks leading up to the event. It’s a true labour of love.
When is the Candle Festival?
It usually takes place in the second week of July, aligning with the start of Buddhist Lent. But dates can vary slightly each year depending on the lunar calendar, so it’s best to double-check before booking flights.
Pro Tip: Arrive a Few Days Early
One of the best parts of this festival? You can actually watch the candles being made. If you arrive a few days before the procession, you’ll be able to visit local temples and artist villages where the carving takes place. Some even let visitors try their hand at shaping wax.
What to Expect at the Festival
The main event is the Grand Candle Procession, where these jaw-dropping candles are paraded through the city streets on colourfully decorated floats. Traditional Isaan dancers perform alongside live music, and the entire city comes alive with celebration.
Expect:
- Floats that look like moving sculptures
- Dancers in vibrant regional costumes
- Local musicians playing traditional Isaan instruments
- Food stalls and cultural exhibitions along the parade route
It’s loud, colourful, and completely captivating—a sensory experience in every way.
Things to Do in Ubon Ratchathani
Beyond the Candle festival, there is also plenty to explore around Ubon Ratchathani:
Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao Temple
It is popularly known as ‘The Fluorescent Temple,’ and its highlight is the illuminated Ubosot with stunning architecture.
Pha Taem National Park
Home to ancient cliff paintings and sweeping sunrise views over the Mekong River. An early morning here is pure magic.
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
A striking white-golden pagoda inspired by Lanna-style architecture. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and worth a stop.
Wat Tham Khuha Sawan
A riverside temple nestled inside a cave, surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a beautiful spot for quiet reflection, and locals often visit to meditate.
Where to Eat: A Taste of Isaan Cuisine
Let’s talk food—because Ubon does not mess around when it comes to flavour. From humble street stalls to Michelin-recognised gems, the city is packed with places that showcase the bold, spicy, and addictive tastes of northeastern Thai cuisine.
Somtum Jinda
A humble local spot with a Michelin Bib Gourmand that delivers on all the Isaan classics—sticky rice, grilled chicken, spicy papaya salad, and Tom Saab.
Ruen Chan Phen
This long-standing local favourite serves up authentic Isaan dishes in a charming, traditional Thai house. Try the Larb Moo (spicy minced pork salad) and Nam Tok (grilled meat salad)—they’re packed with flavour.
Guay Jub Ubon
For over 70 years, this little gem has maintained strict quality control, carefully selecting offal from more than 10kg of offcuts each day. Their specialty is Guay Jub rice noodles with pork offal in a dark five-spice soup. They also serve delectable egg noodle and wonton soups.
Samchai Coffee (Thepyothi Road)
The menu boasts a tasty dried shredded pork and a range of sausages. A highlight is the Indochina pan-fried egg served with a side sandwich. The eggs are cooked sunny side up with margarine, then topped with sweet and salty Chinese sausage and peppery Vietnamese sausage slices
Why this Festival needs to go on your Bucket-list
Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival isn’t just a festival—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and community. You’ll not only walk away with beautiful photos, but with a deeper appreciation for Thai tradition—and probably a strong craving for sticky rice.
If you’re ready to experience this country beyond the usual tourist trail- put the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival on your bucket list!
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