UBON RATCHATHANI, Thailand – Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society Nan Boontida Somchai presided over the opening ceremony of the 2026 Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival on July 30 at Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram, welcoming more than 10,000 Thai and international visitors. Nan presided over a traditional ceremony before the grand candle procession began. Leading the parade were the Royal Candle graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King and the Royal Kathin robe graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, followed by 48 candle floats created by temples and local communities throughout the province. The procession also featured 24 traditional dance groups along the city’s main streets.
The candle floats competed in carved, molded, and traditional categories, with sculptures portraying stories from the Jataka Tales and Buddhist teachings through traditional Thai craftsmanship. The festival has been observed for more than 125 years, evolving from the custom of offering candles during Buddhist Lent into one of Thailand’s most celebrated cultural traditions.
The festival celebrates Ubon Ratchathani’s rich cultural heritage, with candle displays and traditional performances taking place throughout the Buddhist Lent season. (NNT)
