Thousands of visitors to the Candle Festival celebration in the northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani to mark the beginning of Buddhist Lent are expected to carry a cash infusion of over Bt50 million to the local economy.

Weerasak Kowsurat, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony of the Candle Festival on Friday morning. The parade kicked off led by a candle adorned in the Ubon Ratchathani traditional style, followed by elaborate Buddhist candles featuring intricate carvings and bas-relief.

Over 50 meticulously crafted candles are contesting the Best Buddhist Lent Candle Award. Each team is also accompanied by traditional Thai dance and music to mark the beginning of Buddhist Lent.