With Buddhist Lent kicking off mid-July, monks will need to station themselves at one temple for a period of at least three months. In the old days, when there was no electricity, candles were lit to illuminate evening study sessions and meditation sittings and were even a way to make merit. Today, the candle tradition lives on in festivals like the annual International Wax Sculpture and Candle Procession Festival held in Ubon Ratchathani from Jul 1-31. The month-long event consists of several exhibitions from local and international artists at Thung Sri Muang Park and Ubon Ratchathani National Museum, as well as Buddhist ceremonies at all temples. Expect the grandest spectacle on Jul 16 when thousands of locals march along the streets with wax sculptures and giant candles in the 1.5-km parade. More information at 045-243-770, 045-250-714, www.tatubon.org and www.amazingubon.com. More festive events can be also found in Nakhon Ratchasima (Jul 15-17, www.facebook.com/koratcandle) and Ayutthaya (Jul 15, 035-246-076/7), where there will be a candle procession on boats in the Klong Lad Chado.