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Get ready to ring in the Cambodian New Year with vibrant colors, traditional dances, delicious food and a day filled with joy and happiness!
Get ready to ring in the Cambodian New Year on April 14 with vibrant celebrations and traditions! This holiday, also known as "Choul Chnam Thmey" in Khmer, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year. It is a time for families to gather, exchange gifts and well wishes, and pay respect to their ancestors. The three-day event is filled with colorful parades, lively music and dance performances, and delicious traditional dishes. So mark your calendars and join in on the festivities – it's a celebration you won't want to miss!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>802</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Beginning of Angkor Era</div><div class='timeline-text'>The beginning of the Angkor Era under the reign of Jayavarman II. Cambodian New Year celebrations can trace their origins back to this time, with the festivities marking the end of the harvest season.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1431</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>End of Angkor Era</div><div class='timeline-text'>The end of the Angkor Era and the start of a more localized celebration of Cambodian New Year, with rituals more closely resembling modern traditions.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1863</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Under French Rule</div><div class='timeline-text'>Cambodia comes under French rule. French colonial rulers observe Cambodian New Year celebrations and adopt certain aspects into their own cultural exchanges.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1953</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Cambodian Independence</div><div class='timeline-text'>With Cambodia gaining independence from France, Cambodian New Year celebrations see a revival and a return to traditional customs.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1975-1979</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Khmer Rouge Regime</div><div class='timeline-text'>During the Khmer Rouge regime, public celebrations of Cambodian New Year are largely suppressed. Many traditional rituals and customs are kept alive in private homes.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1993</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Post-Civil War</div><div class='timeline-text'>Following the end of the civil war, public celebrations of Cambodian New Year make a major comeback, with an emphasis on traditional customs and rituals, and the holiday being officially recognized by the state.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a traditional dance performance</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Experience the vibrant and colorful culture of Cambodia by attending a traditional dance performance during the New Year festivities. Enjoy the beautiful costumes, music, and storytelling through dance.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Visit a Cambodian temple</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Pay your respects and soak in the spiritual atmosphere by visiting a Cambodian temple during New Year. Take part in the traditional rituals and ceremonies and learn about the country's rich history and traditions.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Join a water festival</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Join in on the fun and excitement of a water festival, a popular tradition during Cambodian New Year. Take part in water fights, boat races, and other festive activities to celebrate the arrival of the new year.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Try traditional Cambodian cuisine</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Indulge in the delicious flavors of Cambodian cuisine during New Year. From savory dishes like amok and lok lak to sweet treats like sticky rice and mango, there's something for everyone to enjoy.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a street fair</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Experience the lively and festive atmosphere of a street fair during Cambodian New Year. Browse through local vendors selling traditional handicrafts, try out some street food, and enjoy live music and performances.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's a celebration of culture and tradition</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Cambodian New Year, also known as Choul Chnam Thmey, is a time for Cambodians to honor their heritage and celebrate the customs of their ancestors. From traditional dances and music to elaborate parades and ceremonies, this holiday offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the fascinating culture of Cambodia.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>The food is delicious</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Like any good celebration, Cambodian New Year involves plenty of delicious food. From aromatic curries to sticky rice dishes and fresh fruits, the cuisine reflects the vibrant flavors and spices of Southeast Asia. It's the perfect opportunity to indulge in some new and tasty dishes!</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's a time for family and community</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Above all, Cambodian New Year is a time for bonding with loved ones and strengthening community ties. Families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in traditional rituals. It's a heartwarming and joyful time that reminds us of the importance of family, culture, and connection.</p></div></div>
Cambodian New Year is celebrated on April 14th every year. In 2024, Cambodian New Year will fall on a Sunday.
2023
Apr 14
Friday
2024
Apr 14
Sunday
2025
Apr 14
Monday
2026
Apr 14
Tuesday
2027
Apr 14
Wednesday
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