Ubon Ratchathani, the city of the lotus flower, is famous for its spectacular Candle Festival held annually on the eighth lunar cycle usually occurring in July at Khao Pansa (the beginning of Buddhist Lent). Many tourism experts consider this event to be the equal to any other and superior to most festivals in Thailand. The highlight of the event is the contest between local artisans who exhibit their considerable carving skills on giant candle floats. The competition is based on a set of criteria and/or themes, such as the history of Lord Buddha, and traditionally involves two types of candle floats, one comprising candles with picturesque filigrees, the other consisting of solid pieces of wax with ornate patterns and designs carved directly into them.