Top 10 Best Festivals & Events in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is one of Cambodia’s most exciting cultural destinations, where ancient traditions and modern celebrations come together throughout the year. From sacred ceremonies at Angkor Wat to vibrant riverside festivals and street parties, 2026 offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
1. Angkor Sankranta (Khmer New Year) – April 14–16, 2026
Location: Angkor Archaeological Park & Siem Reap city center
Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Celebrate Cambodia’s biggest holiday with traditional games, apsara dance performances, temple blessings, and evening concerts. Thousands gather around Angkor temples to welcome the Khmer New Year with joy and community spirit.
Contact: Siem Reap Provincial Hall | Tel: +855 63 760 141
2. Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) – November 23–25, 2026
Location: Siem Reap River
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
This spectacular river festival features colorful long-boat races, floating lanterns, food stalls, and evening fireworks celebrating the reversal of the Tonle Sap River.
Contact: Siem Reap Tourism Department | Tel: +855 63 963 100
3. Angkor Wat International Half Marathon – December 6, 2026
Location: Angkor Wat
Time: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Run through one of the world’s most iconic temple complexes during this internationally recognized charity race. Distances include 21K, 10K, and 5K events.
Contact: Cambodia Events Organizer | Email: info@cambodia-events.org
4. Giant Puppet Parade – February 21, 2026
Location: Wat Damnak Area
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A magical evening parade featuring giant illuminated handmade puppets created by local artists and students, accompanied by live performances and music.
Contact: Phare Ponleu Selpak | Tel: +855 92 330 671
5. Angkor Photo Festival & Workshops – Jan 30 – Feb 8, 2026
Location: Various galleries in Siem Reap
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
An international photography festival showcasing exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops led by global photographers.
Contact: info@angkor-photo.com
6. Khmer Giant Kite Festival – February 20–22, 2026
Location: Old Airport Field
Time: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Traditional giant kites fill the sky while families enjoy cultural shows, music, and local food vendors.
Contact: Siem Reap Cultural Department | Tel: +855 63 760 142
7. Visak Bochea Day – May 31, 2026
Location: Local Pagodas
Time: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
A sacred Buddhist holiday commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha with candlelight processions and merit-making ceremonies.
Contact: Ministry of Cults & Religion | Tel: +855 23 726 257
8. Royal Ploughing Ceremony (Local Observance) – May 2026 (TBC)
Location: Provincial Grounds
Time: Morning Ceremony
An ancient agricultural ritual predicting the farming season ahead, performed with traditional royal customs.
Contact: Ministry of Agriculture | Tel: +855 23 211 351
9. Pchum Ben (Ancestors’ Day) – October 9–11, 2026
Location: Pagodas across Siem Reap
Time: 4:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Families gather at temples to honor their ancestors with food offerings and prayers during this important 15-day religious observance.
Contact: Local Pagoda Committees
10. Pub Street New Year Celebration – December 31, 2026
Location: Pub Street, Siem Reap
Time: 6:00 PM – Midnight
Ring in 2027 with live music, DJs, countdown parties, and fireworks in the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife district.
Contact: Siem Reap Tourism Police | Tel: +855 12 402 424
