Cambodia the country of big festivals
Cambodia have 25 ethnic groups. Therefore, the country’s festivals are diversified but have their own specific characteristics in each region. Although there are many festivals and customs have been lost, some special festivals have existed until now.
Choul Chnam Khmer (Cambodia New Year festival)
This is considered as the biggest festival in Cambodia. It is held annually from 14-16April (basing on solar calendar).
On the occasion, the Cambodian release beautiful and flickering lanterns onto the lake. Thousands of these shimmering lanterns make a Lantern Sparkling Night. It is believed that the people whose lanterns remain lit throughout the night will have good fortune in the New Year.
This is also occasion for youth, especially young girls, to dress in their full finery and, hand in hand, participate in traditional dances.
This festival is also celebrated in Laos, Thailand and Myanmar- agricultural civilization countries.
Royal Ploughing Day
In this year, the festival is celebrated on May 17th. This officially marks the start of the rainy season in Cambodia, and the start of the planting season. Cambodians believes strongly that ceremony tells them about the prospects of upcoming year's crops. It’s always held in royal palace to show King’s interest in his people and their crops.
Pchum Ben day (22nd -24th ,September)
Pchum Ben day is a 3 day festival where Cambodians honor their ancestors by providing food offerings to ease their burdens. Is it said that the spirits of the ancestors roam the world during this day.
Water festival ceremony (Bon Om Tuk)
This festival is held on 5th -7th, November. Water festival ceremony (Bon Om Tuk) is when the boat races are held. Phnom Penh holds races at a larger scale, but Siem Reap also has its races. During the ancient times, this is how the King chooses his most powerful warriors, by choosing champions from the boat competitions. The festival is ongoing for 3 days, and so naturally this is one of the most celebrated Cambodia holidays.
National Independence Day (9th ,November)
This national holiday was established to celebrate Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. There are more interesting festivals which you should join and experience in Cambodia in 2014.