The Cambodian New Year, also known as the Khmer New Year, is one of the most important and colorful festivals in Cambodia, celebrated annually in April. The celebration is a time for families to come together, pay respects to ancestors, and welcome in the new year with joy and optimism.
The Cambodian New Year is a three-day celebration that starts with the cleaning of homes and the preparation of traditional foods. On the first day, families gather to make offerings to the spirits of their ancestors and to pay respects to the elderly members of their community. The second day is dedicated to the Buddha, and many people visit temples to make offerings and make wishes for the coming year. The third day is the most lively and colorful, with parades and traditional dances taking place in the streets.
One of the main highlights of the Cambodian New Year is the traditional water festival, where people throw water on each other as a symbol of purification and renewal. It’s also a way to show respect and humility to others. The streets are filled with people, young and old, dousing each other with water, and it’s a great way to cool off from the heat.
Another highlight of the Cambodian New Year is the traditional dances, which take place in the streets, in the temples and in the village squares. The dances are accompanied by live music and are a beautiful display of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can see performances of the traditional Apsara dance, as well as other traditional dances such as the Robam Tep Apsara and the Robam Choun Por.
Overall, the Cambodian New Year is a time of celebration, family, and tradition. It’s a vibrant and colorful festival that offers visitors the chance to experience the rich culture and heritage of Cambodia. From the traditional water festival to the colorful parades and dances, the Cambodian New Year is a must-see event for anyone visiting the country during April.
