Khmer New Year
Be respectful by: Visitors should be respectful when visiting temples and participating in games.
Main steps: Families clean their homes to prepare for the new year. Then Visit temples to offer prayers and show gratitude.
Photo: Scott Semans (CC BY 3.0)
3 traditions ยท celebrated today
Traditions of Cambodia
Cambodia is full of wonderful traditions that have been cherished for many years. These special customs are bright and fun, bringing families and neighbors together to celebrate. People often dress in colorful clothes, enjoy music, and share tasty food. It's a joyful time where everyone smiles and enjoys being with each other.
Featured Traditions
Living Traditions
Cambodian traditions are a vibrant part of community life, honoring history and celebrating cultural diversity with harmony and joy.
Year Calendar
How to Join Respectfully
Water Festival
Be respectful by: Cheering is encouraged, but itโs polite to show respect to participants.
Main steps: Watch exciting boat races along the river. Then Enjoy traditional music and food with others.
Pchum Ben
Be respectful by: Dress modestly and behave respectfully in pagodas.
Main steps: Visit pagodas to pay respect and remember ancestors. Then Offer food to monks and share blessings.
Tradition Details
Khmer New Year
Chaul Chnam Thmey
People clean their homes, visit temples, and play traditional games.
Why it matters: Khmer New Year marks the end of the harvest season with joyful and grateful celebrations.
Respect tip: Visitors should be respectful when visiting temples and participating in games.
Water Pouring
Water Festival
Bon Om Touk
Boat races on rivers celebrate the reversing of the Tonle Sap River's flow.
Why it matters: This festival celebrates the unique natural phenomenon of the riverโs flow reversal, bringing community togetherness.
Respect tip: Cheering is encouraged, but itโs polite to show respect to participants.
Dragon Boats
Pchum Ben
แแปแแแแแแแปแแแทแแแ
People visit pagodas to pay respect to their ancestors and offer food.
Why it matters: Pchum Ben is a heartfelt time to remember and honor ancestors across 15 meaningful days.
Respect tip: Dress modestly and behave respectfully in pagodas.
Food Offerings
Cultural Objects
Daily Customs
In Cambodia, family meals are cherished moments for sharing stories and enjoying traditional dishes like Amok, strengthening family ties.
Arts & Expression
Cambodian arts include the Apsara Dance, featuring graceful movements that tell ancient tales and connect people to their rich heritage.
Vocabulary
Just like children worldwide enjoy their holidays, Cambodian kids look forward to their fun festivals and family traditions too!