Culture: Cambodian people celebrate the traditional New Year
- Editorial team
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Cambodia has just begun three days of celebration of the Khmer New Year, also known as Chol Chnam Thmey. This festive period, which will end on 16 April, marks a time of renewal, family reunions and spiritual regeneration.
Origin and meaning
Historically, Cambodia switched from a lunar to a solar calendar to ensure that New Year celebrations took place after the harvest season and before the start of the monsoon.
Celebrations across Cambodia
The festivities are widespread, and major cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and Battambang host lively events. In Phnom Penh, the Royal Palace is decorated with lights and fireworks illuminate the night sky. Street food stalls offer traditional specialities, while locals gather to pray and make donations.
In Siem Reap, the iconic Angkor Wat complex is transformed into a centre for cultural performances, traditional games and exhibitions during the Angkor Sankranta festival. This event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and features boat races along the river, live concerts and street fairs.
Kampot is renowned for its joyful water fights and traditional games, while Battambang hosts an exciting boat race on the Sangker River.
Traditional practices
Each day of the Khmer New Year is marked by specific traditions:
Maha Songkran (day 1): families prepare their homes with altars and offerings, go to temples to pray and welcome the guardian spirit of the new year
Virak Vanabat (day 2): a day of generosity, when families honour their ancestors by offering food and gifts to monks and the most disadvantaged members of society
Vearak Leung Sak (day 3): On the last day, rituals are organised, such as the washing of Buddha statues with scented water, symbolising purification and renewal
Cultural significance
Khmer New Year is an opportunity for families to get together and strengthen their bonds. Dances, music and traditional games such as ‘Chol Chhoung’ and ‘Bos Angkunh’ are an integral part of the celebrations, promoting unity and joy in the community.
Water fights, reminiscent of the Thai Songkran, are a high point, symbolising the elimination of misfortune and the welcoming of a new beginning.
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