If you think Cambodia is all temples and tuk tuks—just wait until you land in the middle of a full-blown water fight, or watch an entire village light up with glowing lanterns by the river. From big national celebrations to hyper-local traditions you won’t find in any guidebook, Cambodia’s festivals are a whole adventure on their own.

Here’s everything you need to know about Cambodia’s festivals—and how to catch the ones that most travelers miss.

1. Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey) – April

This is the big one. Celebrated over three days in mid-April, Khmer New Year is basically Cambodia’s version of Songkran, but with its own flair.

• Expect: Epic water fights, street parties, traditional games, and every city shutting down to celebrate.
  
  
• Where to be: Siem Reap is the party capital, but smaller towns offer a more traditional vibe with temple visits and ceremonies.
  
  
• Pro tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting drenched in, and pack your waterproof phone pouch!
  
  

2. Pchum Ben – September/October (dates vary)

A more spiritual festival, Pchum Ben is when Cambodians honor their ancestors by offering food at temples and pagodas. It’s deeply meaningful and a chance to see Cambodia at its most reflective.

• Expect: Early morning chants, offerings of sticky rice and fruit, and a peaceful, respectful energy across the country.
  
  
• Where to be: Anywhere with a pagoda—just walk quietly, observe respectfully, and you might be invited to take part.
  
  
• Hidden tip: Visit a countryside temple during Pchum Ben for an authentic, moving experience.
  
  

3. Bon Om Touk – The Water Festival – November

This one’s big and beautiful. Held during the full moon in November, Bon Om Touk marks the natural reversal of the Tonlé Sap River’s flow—yes, it’s the only river in the world that does that!

• Expect: Longboat races, riverside celebrations, concerts, and food stalls galore.
  
  
• Where to be: Phnom Penh is the heart of the action, but smaller races happen in Battambang and Kampong Cham too.
  
  
• Adventure tip: Book ahead—accommodation fills up fast, and the riverfront gets packed.
  
  

4. Meak Bochea & Visak Bochea – Lunar Calendar Buddhist Holidays

These two Buddhist holidays are lesser-known but incredibly important here. They mark key events in the Buddha’s life and are celebrated with peaceful candlelit processions at pagodas across the country.

• Expect: Monks chanting, quiet rituals, and glowing temples under the moonlight.
  
  
• Where to be: Ask a local where the nearest pagoda is holding a ceremony—most are open to respectful visitors.
  
  
• Hidden magic: Seeing a line of candle-holding monks walking around a pagoda in silence? Unforgettable.
  
  

5. Local Village Festivals – Anytime, Anywhere

Here’s where the real secret lies. All over Cambodia, especially in rural areas, small festivals pop up around harvests, village anniversaries, or even just local pride. You won’t find these on TripAdvisor—but if you’re with a local guide or staying in a homestay, you might just get swept up in one.

• Expect: Loud music, traditional dancing, food, and warm invitations to join.
  
  
• Where to find them: Kampong Thom, Mondulkiri, and the islands often surprise travelers with random community festivals.
  
  
• Local tip: Ask your guide or guesthouse host if anything is happening nearby—they’ll know where the party’s at.
  
  

Whether it’s a nationwide celebration or a tiny temple gathering, Cambodia’s festivals are where the country’s heart really beats. They're colorful, chaotic, joyful, and full of meaning—and they’re a perfect way to dive deeper into the culture while you're here.

So if you’re planning your trip, consider syncing it with a celebration—or just stay open to surprises. Around here, you never know when a quiet night might turn into a dance party under the stars.

Discover Cambodia's hidden festivals and you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll take home the feeling of being part of something special.

Want help timing your trip around a festival (or finding one that’s totally off the radar)? Give us a shout. We’re always happy to help you join the celebration.