The end of this month will see the start of the 7th International Wax Sculpture and Thai Candle Wax Carving Festival (aka Ubon Wax Sculpture 2012) held in in Ubon Ratchathani town center. This long-running festival takes place Jul 20-Aug 5 and 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 at a temple for three months and need additional light for their studies. The festival also features a parade of floats and cars finely decorated by wax and candles on Aug 3. More information at TAT Ubon Ratchathani, 045-243-770. www.tatubon.org