The Cambodian calendar for 2024 is going to be jam-packed with holidays, festivals, and special events that you definitely don’t want to miss. From New Year’s to the Water Festival to the King’s birthday, mark your calendars now for all the celebrations coming your way this year. And don’t forget about those international holidays too; we’ve got all the details on which dates Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and more fall in 2024. Whether you want to plan ahead for your vacation days or simply know when the parties are happening, we’ve put together everything you need to know about the Cambodian calendar and major events this year.
Overview of the Cambodian Calendar
History and Origins
The Cambodian calendar closely follows the lunar calendar and has been in use for over 2000 years. It originated in India and was later adopted by the Khmer Empire. The calendar is used to determine Cambodian holidays and festivals, most of which are based around the Buddhist religion.
Months and Seasons
Cambodia’s year is made up of 12 months, and each one has either 29 or 30 days. The Cambodian New Year, also called Chaul Chnam Thmey, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the rainy season around mid-April. The rainy season lasts until October, followed by the cool dry season from October to January and the hot dry season from February to April.
Important Holidays and Festivals
Some of the biggest Cambodian holidays are Chaul Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year), Pchum Ben (Festival of the Dead), and Bonn Om Touk (Water Festival). Chaul Chnam Thmey is celebrated for three days in April with street parties, dancing, and Buddhist rituals. Pchum Ben is a 15-day festival in September honoring deceased relatives. Bonn Om Touk, held in November, marks the end of the rainy season and features boat races, fireworks, and street parades.
Additional Celebrations
Cambodia also celebrates some international holidays, like International Women’s Day on March 8th and International Children’s Day on June 1st. And of course, the Gregorian New Year is celebrated on January 1st, though not as enthusiastically as Chaul Chnam Thmey.
With a mix of cultural traditions, Buddhist rituals, and modern influences, the Cambodian calendar has something to offer all year round. The vibrant festivals and holidays provide a glimpse into the rich history and beliefs of the Cambodian people.
Major Cambodian Holidays and Celebrations in 2024
Cambodian New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)
The biggest celebration of the year! Chaul Chnam Thmey, or Cambodian New Year, usually falls in mid-April and lasts for three days. During this festival, Cambodians clean their houses, visit pagodas, and sprinkle water on each other as a blessing. You’ll see colorful parades, traditional Apsara dancing, and fireworks. Wish your Cambodian friends “Soksabay Teav Pisey!” which means “Happy New Year!”
Pchum Ben Festival: Honor the dead
Pchum Ben, or Ancestors’ Day, is a 15-day Buddhist festival in late September or October where Cambodians honor their late relatives. Offerings like sticky rice, fruit, and candles are made at pagodas and temples. Many Cambodians believe that during Pchum Ben, the gates of hell are opened and spirits can briefly return to find nourishment from the offerings. Families gather at temples and pagodas to make food offerings to monks in the name of spirits and ancestors.
It’s believed that during Pchum Ben, spirits of the dead return temporarily to this world, so families make every effort to appease them with lavish feasts and gifts. The festival culminates on the 15th and final day, when crowds gather at temples for evening candlelight vigils.
Water Festival (Bonn Phum)
The Water Festival, held in November, celebrates the reversing of the Tonle Sap River. There are boat races, fireworks, and parades in this three-day festival. Phnom Penh comes alive with food stalls, carnival rides, and pop-up markets along the riverfront. The boat races are the highlight, with each team representing their province or organization. Cheer on your favorite team!
International New Year
While not an official Cambodian holiday, Cambodians still celebrate the International New Year on January 1st. There are parties, fireworks shows, and special events, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Bars and clubs stay open late, and there are promotions at many hotels and restaurants. Wish your Cambodian friends a “Happy New Year” or “Sou Sdey Chnam Thmey”
International Events and Holidays Observed in Cambodia in 2024
Cambodia observes many international holidays and events, along with its own traditional festivals. Here are some of the major ones you can experience in 2024:
Chinese New Year
In late January, Cambodia celebrates Chinese New Year, with festivities lasting up to two weeks. There are big cultural shows, parades, and fireworks in big cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Some businesses and schools close for the holidays as people gather with family. On January 25, 2024, the Year of the Rat starts.
Valentine’s Day
On February 14, lovers in Cambodia exchange gifts like flowers, chocolates, and cards to express their affection. While not an official holiday, Valentine’s Day is popular among youth and provides an opportunity for romance.
International Women’s Day
On March 8, Cambodia recognizes the achievements and contributions of women through public events and social campaigns promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. Government offices, schools, and businesses remain open.
International Labor Day
On May 1, workers in Cambodia are honored with a public holiday celebrating labor rights and the working class. While there are no major public festivities, most government offices and schools close for the day. Some businesses may also close or have reduced hours.
Christmas in Cambodia
The Christian community in Cambodia celebrates Christmas in a unique and special way. The Gregorian calendar, which is used a lot in Cambodia, says that Christmas will be on December 25. Even though Christians are a small minority in Cambodia, they enjoy Christmas with a lot of joy. People start the parties on Christmas Eve by going to church for midnight masses. With lights, Christmas trees, and ornaments, the buildings look beautiful. The nativity scene is meant to show how Jesus Christ was born. On Christmas Day, families get together to share gifts. For Christmas in Cambodia, people eat “Num Ansom Chek,” which is a sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves and filled with pork, beans, and other things. During the holiday season, Cambodian Christians also take part in charity events to help people who are less wealthy. Overall, Cambodian Christmas is a happy time, and the date on the Khmer calendar makes the party even more unique.
With a mix of cultural traditions, religious festivals, and international observances, 2024 promises to be an exciting year in Cambodia, filled with opportunities for celebration. The diverse events on the calendar showcase the heritage, values, and modern influences that shape this vibrant country.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cambodian Calendar 2024
What are the major holidays in Cambodia during 2024?
Cambodia celebrates many holidays and festivals throughout the year. Some of the biggest are Chinese New Year (late January), Cambodia’s Independence Day (November 9th), Bonn Om Touk, the Water Festival (November), and Pchum Ben, the Festival of the Dead (September). During festivals, many Cambodians travel to be with family, so hotels may fill up.
What events should visitors be aware of?
If you’re traveling to Cambodia in 2024, be aware of the major holidays and events, as some public services may be closed or have limited hours. Chinese New Year in late January is a popular time, with colourful celebrations, dancing, and fireworks. Independence Day on November 9th also sees parades and festivities. The Water Festival in November is an exciting time, with boat races, live music, and dancing.
What are some lesser-known Cambodian celebrations?
Some other cultural events in 2024 include Meak Bochea Day in February, honouring Buddha’s teachings; Visak Bochea in May, celebrating Buddha’s birth; and the mid-April Khmer New Year, a three-day celebration with music, dancing, and water fights. The King’s Birthday on May 13th and Constitution Day on September 24th are also public holidays.
What international days are celebrated in Cambodia?
Cambodia also recognizes some international days, like International Women’s Day on March 8th and World Environment Day on June 5th. International celebrations like Valentine’s Day (February 14th), Mother’s Day (May), Father’s Day (June), and Halloween (October 31st) are becoming more popular, especially among younger Cambodians.
With vibrant cultural traditions and growing global connections, Cambodia’s calendar of events offers visitors a glimpse into this captivating country. By understanding the significance of the many holidays and festivals in 2024, you can gain deeper insight into Cambodia’s rich heritage.
You might also want to read:
The Cambodian Calendar 2025 Explained: What to Expect This Year
Planning a Trip for Khmer New Year 2024: Your Essential Guide