Festivals of Cambodia

Cambodia is famous for its colorful festivals, royal ceremonies, and Buddhist celebrations. Many festivals are official government holidays and bring families together for temple visits, traditional games, boat races, music, and cultural events. These celebrations show the rich Khmer culture, religion, and history of the country.

Top 10 Festivals and Special Events in Cambodia

1. Khmer New Year
   Date: April 14–16
   Time: 3 days
   Contact: Ministry of Tourism Cambodia
   Cambodia’s biggest holiday celebrating the traditional Khmer New Year with games, dancing, and water celebrations.
2. Pchum Ben
   Date: Usually September or October
   Time: 15 days
   Contact: Cambodian Buddhist temples nationwide
   A religious festival where families honor ancestors and offer food to monks.
3. Water Festival
   Date: November
   Time: 3 days
   Contact: Phnom Penh Municipality
   Famous for exciting boat races, fireworks, concerts, and river celebrations.
4. Royal Ploughing Ceremony
   Date: May
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Royal Government of Cambodia
   Ancient royal ceremony marking the start of the rice-growing season.
5. Visak Bochea Day
   Date: May
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Ministry of Cults and Religion
   Buddhist holy day celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
6. National Independence Day
   Date: November 9
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Royal Government of Cambodia
   Celebrates Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953 with parades and ceremonies.
7. King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday
   Date: May 14
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Royal Palace of Cambodia
   National celebrations honoring the birthday of the King of Cambodia.
8. Coronation Day of King Norodom Sihamoni
   Date: October 29
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Royal Palace of Cambodia
   Marks the anniversary of the King’s coronation with official ceremonies.
9. Constitution Day
   Date: September 24
   Time: 1 day
   Contact: Royal Government of Cambodia
   Celebrates Cambodia’s constitution and modern democracy.
10. Peace Day in Cambodia
    Date: December 29
    Time: 1 day
    Contact: Royal Government of Cambodia
    National event celebrating peace and the end of conflict in Cambodia.