Iconic candles light the way

Iconic candles light the way

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Iconic candles light the way
A wax candle procession in Ubon Ratchathani. (Photos courtesy of IconSiam)

See award-winning carved wax candles from Ubon Ratchathani on display during the "Iconic Candle Festival" at the River Park of IconSiam, Charoen Nakhon Road, until Wednesday.

Held to mark Wan Khao Phansa, the first day of Buddhist Lent, which this year falls on July 17, the festival features two spectacular displays of wax candles from Ubon Ratchathani, a province famed for hosting the biggest and most elaborate candle festival in Thailand.

One of the displays, standing over 5m tall, won the top prize in last year's contest; the other was recently created for this event by craft master Weera Meesook. Both portray the story of Lord Buddha's mother, Queen Maya of Sakya, having a vision in her dream.

The lavish displays are surrounded by 77 exquisitely carved wax candles, representing 77 temples from each province. Buddhists are also encouraged to bring small candles used in daily prayer for donation. All of the 77 carved candles and donated candles will be given to temples in need across the 77 provinces.

Wax carver Weera Meesook.

In the evening, there will be performances from Isan, including contemporary dance, music and literature from 6pm every day.

At Rasada Hall on the 1st floor, there will be an exhibition on the history of Buddhist Lent, a daily candle carving demonstration by craftsmen from Ubon Ratchathani and a daily workshop on how to make wax candle flowers from the Portia tree fruit. These flowers are used to decorate castle wax offerings, according to Isan tradition at the end of Buddhist Lent.

All visitors who wish to take part in the festival are encouraged to dress in traditional Thai costumes. There is no admission fee.

Call 02-495-7000.

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