The Halacha permits "Ha’avara" (kindling a flame) on Yom Tob from an existing flame, if it is done L’sorech-for a legitimate need. For example, one may light his gas range or barbecue pilot from an existing flame because it is done for the purpose of cooking. Hacham Bension rules that lighting a Yahrzeit candle is also considered a legitimate purpose, and it may be lit from an existing flame. Interestingly, the Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933) in Siman 514:30 rules that places that have the custom at a Brit Mila to light candles in honor of Eliyahu HaNavi may do so on Yom Tob. Today, this is not commonly done on Yom Tob because generally the candles are lit in conjunction with collecting Sedaka. In all case where it is permitted to light the flame, it is prohibited to extinguish it on Yom Tob.
