Khmer New Year, also known as Cambodian New Year, is celebrated in Cambodia in April. For 3 days, towns and villages are turned upside down and Cambodians party. We ourselves celebrated the Khmer New Year in 2023 in Phnom Penh and this was amazing. We’ll tell you more about the Cambodian New Year, its dates and details in this article.
Content of this blog:
When is the Khmer New Year in Cambodia?
The Khmer New Year starts every year on April 13 or 14. This is based on the position of the sun and thus varies each year. Khmer New Year is traditionally celebrated for 3 days.
How is the Khmer New Year celebrated?
Many Cambodians get 3 days off work for this holiday. Most people travel back to their villages to celebrate the Cambodian New Year with family. Others travel to Siem Reap to attend a large celebration. In fact, Siem Reap is where the Cambodian New Year is celebrated at its greatest. We were unfortunately not in Siem Reap but in Phnom Penh and can tell you that Cambodian New Year is also celebrated very grandly in Phnom Penh. Around the Wat Phnom Daun Penh traffic circle(Google Maps Location), the party erupts every day from 2 p.m. onwards.
Celebrating during the Khmer New Year is different from what we are used to in the Netherlands. During the Khmer New Year, two items are very important: water guns and baby powder. Baby powder is used to lovingly rub your face with. In fact, ancient Cambodians believe that baby powder drives away evil spirits and lets in good spirits. Today it is mainly used to smear each other and laugh among themselves. Note that some of these baby powders contain tiger balm. Your head will feel burning after this. It is very painful when you get this in your eyes so always close your eyes tightly.
In addition, water guns are a must-have during the Khmer New Year. In fact, all Cambodians spray each other all wet. Wherever you walk, prepare to be sprayed under by the water guns. They don’t do this in swimming trunks, by the way; the Cambodians just wear their long shirt and long jeans. As a tourist, you can wear shorts and a top but not a swimsuit or bikini. You will be soaked to the bone and completely smeared with baby powder.
In addition, at the Wat Phnom Daun Penh roundabout, there is also a festival of sorts featuring local Cambodian music. The locals here dance the traditional way and enjoy teaching it to you. Even while dancing, you will be sprayed wet and blessed with the baby powder.
What should you wear and bring during Khmer New Year?
Below is a summary of what it is best to wear and bring with you during the Khmer New Year.
- Top
- Shorts
- Slippers
- Possibly an old/cheap pair of sunglasses
- A drybag for your wallet and phone
- GoPro to film
It is wise not to bring any additional items beyond this. After all, everything will get dirty and wet.
The Cambodian New Year is a great celebration to attend if you have the chance. Will you be in Cambodia around April 13/14? Then go to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh and enjoy 3 days with the locals. However, it is wise to book your accommodation at least one week (preferably longer) in advance. The good and cheap accommodations are quickly booked up during this period.
0 Comments