Cambodian Holidays and Traditions

Cambodian holidays are deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhist rituals. The essential holidays reflect Buddhist origins, showing resilience through history, including during the Khmer Rouge regime. Even amidst modern Western influences, Cambodians retain core celebrations that highlight religion, tradition, and the joyful essence of life.

February – Meak Bochea

Meak Bochea celebrates the unplanned visit of 1,250 monks paying homage to the Buddha. This day, occurring on the full moon of the third lunar month, symbolizes the teaching of fundamental principles: To do good, abstain from wrongdoing, and purify the mind. Candlelit processions take place in local temples, fostering a sense of community.

The corresponding Gregorian calendar dates for Meak Bochea fall on the following:

• 2019 – February 19
• 2020 – February 8

April – Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)

Khmer New Year transforms Cambodia into a festive atmosphere as families gather to celebrate. Initially, houses are cleaned, special foods are prepared for blessings, and traditional games commence. As the last day of festive celebrations arrives, youths splash water, similar to festivities in Thailand and Laos.

Celebrated for three continuous days from April 13 to 15, this is a key holiday that enhances cultural identity and community bonding.

April/May – Royal Ploughing Ceremony

The Royal Plowing Ceremony marks the onset of rice planting, where the King’s representatives plow a field guided by sacred cows, divining the season to come based on their choices. Rooted in ancient Hindu practices, this ceremony symbolizes agricultural prosperity and community hope.

The plowing ceremony traditionally occurs on the fourth day of the sixth lunar month, corresponding to the Gregorian calendar as follows:

• 2019 – May 7
• 2020 – April 25

May 13-15 – King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday

King Norodom Sihamoni celebrates his birthday through simple offerings to monks and the less fortunate. Conversely, the nation celebrates this occasion with a three-day holiday where vibrant decorations adorn the streets, showcasing appreciation for the monarchy.

September – Ancestors’ Day (Pchum Ben)

Pchum Ben, the Khmer Festival of the Dead, engages Khmers in a fifteen-day observance known as Dak Ben, encouraging visits to pagodas for offerings. It highlights the cultural significance of honoring deceased ancestors, particularly meaningful for families affected by the Khmer Rouge atrocities. Celebrated on the 15th day of the 10th lunar month, festivities typically span over the preceding and following days:

• 2019 – September 27-29
• 2020 – September 16-18

November 9 – National Independence Day

This day commemorates the anniversary of Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953. Celebrations take place around the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh, with the King lighting a symbolic victory fire, attended by officials, military leaders, and diplomatic figures. Parades, cultural displays, and fireworks mark this significant national event.

November – Water Festival (Bonn Om Touk)

The Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) celebrates the annual reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. This festival offers an exciting three-day lineup filled with boat races, cultural festivities, and fireworks. Large crowds, often exceeding a million attendees, gather in Phnom Penh, creating a lively carnival atmosphere, complete with food, music, and entertainment.

Bon Om Touk usually occurs on the full moon of November, with potential cancellations that require attention. When celebrated, the corresponding Gregorian dates include:

• 2018 – November 22
• 2019 – November 11
• 2020 – November 31

May – Vesaka Bochea (Buddha’s “Birthday”)

Vesaka Bochea commemorates three significant events in the Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment, and passing into Nirvana. Celebrated on the full moon of the sixth month of the Khmer lunar calendar, this holiday is widely cherished. Buddhists engage in reflecting upon the Buddha’s principles and supporting their local monastic community through offerings.

The corresponding Gregorian calendar dates for Vesaka Bochea are:

• 2019 – May 18
• 2020 – May 6