Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 2026: July 28–30
Ubon Ratchathani’s annual Candle Festival - one of northeastern Thailand’s most significant cultural events - takes place July 28–30, 2026, marking the start of Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent). Tens of thousands of visitors travel to this Isan city each year to watch elaborately carved wax floats make their way through the city streets in one of Thailand’s most visually striking processions.
What Happens at the Festival
The festival centres on a candle float parade that moves from Thung Si Mueang public park through the heart of the city on the evening of July 28. Temples and civic institutions construct massive wax sculptures - some reaching several metres tall - carved with mythological figures, nagas, and scenes from Buddhist scripture. These floats are paraded with accompanying music, traditional dancers, and merit-making ceremonies.
Over the three-day period, the festivities include a candle beauty contest, folk performances, an artisan market, and a light-and-sound show at Thung Si Mueang park. The city fills up quickly; if you plan to stay overnight in Ubon rather than day-trip from elsewhere, book accommodation at least two weeks in advance.
Practical Notes for Festival Weekend
July marks the rainy season in Isan. The main candle parade takes place in the evening, which reduces the heat, but afternoon thunderstorms are common and the ground around the park can be wet and slippery. Bring lightweight waterproof clothing and shoes with grip.
Transport into Ubon Ratchathani is available by domestic flight from Bangkok (around one hour), overnight train from Hua Lamphong (about ten hours), or long-distance bus. Traffic in the city increases significantly during festival days - arrive by train or bus if possible, or park well outside the central area and walk in.
Food stalls and street markets expand across the city during the festival, with vendors selling Isan staples including som tam (papaya salad), grilled chicken (kai yang), and sticky rice. Vegetarian options are more limited at outdoor stalls than in restaurants.
Beyond the Festival
Our Ubon Ratchathani city guide covers the year-round highlights of this underrated Isan destination - including the Mekong River viewpoints at Kaeng Kut Khu, the prehistoric cliff paintings at Pha Taem National Park, and the border crossing into Laos at Chong Mek.
The Candle Festival is part of a wider calendar of Thai lantern and candle celebrations. Our Loi Krathong and Yi Peng guide covers the November festivals in northern Thailand, giving you a fuller picture of the country’s Buddhist festival traditions. If you’re combining the Candle Festival with time elsewhere in Thailand, GetYourGuide’s Thailand tours cover guided cultural experiences, temple visits, and day trips across the country.