| January 01
International New Year’s Day
April 14-16
Cambodian New Year
A three-day celebration after the end of harvest to mark the turn of
The New Year according to the Khmer lunar.calender Every home is seen
with attractive decorations. shrines are full of food and beverages
given as offerings to God.. Other people attend Buddhist temples where
traditional games are also performed.
May 29
Visa Bochea Day Birthday of Buddha.
May 25
Royal Ploughing Ceremony. It is culturally cele-brated to alert the
nation of the commen-cement of rainy season, and farmers to be ready
for farming rice by starting to plough. The venue is a field at a wing
of Royal Palace, Phnom Penh. The scene is interesting as it depicts
real ploughing activities where cows are given a variety of crops to
eat. Based on the choices of crops eaten by the cows, prediction are
made for the coming year.
October
Pchun Ben Day or The Soul Day
A religious festival to bless the souls of ancestors, relatives and
friends alike who have passed away. Household members attend Buddhist
temples.
October 30 - November 1
Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk
A giant firework display is held close to the riverbanks in front of
the Royal Palace.
October or November
Water Festival
Not only it marks the reversing flow of Tonle Sap River but also ushers
in the fishing season. The Highlight of the event is boat races over
three days. As night falls, fireworks light the sky and a lighted flotilla
of boats sail under full moon to whom household worships. Some analysts
say the celebration is also a thanksgiving to the Mekong River for providing
the country with fertile land. People from all walks of life gather
on the bank of the Mekong River for days and nights.
Late December
International Half marathon. Held at the world renowned Angkor Wat an
event which attracts competitors from all over the world. With thousands
of spectators and the wonder of Angkor Wat, it is a spectacular setting. |