Next week will see the return of the annual Ubon Wax Festival at Ubon Ratchathani town center. This long-running festival aims to conserve the age-old art of candle carving as a form of Buddhist devotion. According to tradition, Buddhists present these beautifully-carved candles to temples during the period of Lent, when monks are required to remain inside the temple for three months and need additional light for their studies. The highlight is a parade of floats and cars finely decorated with wax and candles on Jul 23. More information at TAT Ubon Ratchathani, 045-243-770, www.tatubon.org.