Phuket City Municipality held its annual candle casting ceremony for Khao Pansa (the beginning of Buddhist Lent) at Wat Khajorn Rangsan on Wednesday, July 22. The event, led by Mueang Phuket District Chief and Acting Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer Siwat Rawangkul, brought together local officials, Buddhist clergy, students, and residents to preserve one of Thailand’s longest-standing religious traditions. Phuket City Mayor Supachoke La-ongphet welcomed participants, noting the municipality’s collaboration with Wat Khajorn Rangsan and other organisations. The ceremony was presided over by Phuket Provincial Chief Monk Phra Udom Wachiramongkol.
During the ceremony, participants joined together to create large candles that will be used throughout the three-month Buddhist Lent period. A highlight of the event was the traditional candle casting, symbolising community unity and devotion. The municipality has scheduled further activities, including a candle blessing ceremony at Wat Khajorn Rangsan on Sunday, July 26, and a ceremonial presentation of the candles to six temples within the Phuket City Municipality area on Monday, July 27.
Mayor Supachoke emphasised the municipality’s commitment to preserving cultural traditions and supporting Buddhism as an integral part of community life. The event aimed to encourage merit-making, religious participation, and awareness among younger generations. Officials also encouraged people to refrain from harmful habits and practise Buddhist principles.
Khao Pansa officially begins on Thursday, July 30, marking the start of the annual three-month Buddhist retreat during the rainy season when monks traditionally remain at their temples for study and meditation. The holiday forms part of a three-day public holiday period from July 28-30, with nationwide alcohol sales prohibited on Asarnha Bucha Day (July 29) and Khao Pansa (July 30), except at licensed entertainment venues, hotels, and international airports. Government offices, including Phuket Immigration, will be closed during the holiday period, reopening on Friday, July 31.
Article and image source: thephuketnews.com
