If you plan to visit Cambodge. You will need a Cambodia visa to enter the country. Unless you are from a Cambodian visa-exempt country. You need to learn about Cambodia public holidays and when they are celebrated. Cambodia has 23 public holidays in 2024, which means you have plenty of opportunities to experience Cambodia’s culture, traditions and celebrations. The Cambodian government issued a decree in August 2023 to officially declare Cambodia public holidays in 2024. There will be 23 public holidays spread over 15 international, national, cultural and religious festivals.
The total number of public holidays in Cambodia still has the highest number of public holidays compared to the rest of the world. This is something to consider for every business interested in or currently operating in Cambodia.
Cambodia Public Holidays – Explored
Make sure you have a Cambodian visa for entry and know all official public holidays in Cambodia in 2024 so you can plan your vacation accordingly. Check the public holidays below.
International New Year’s Day – January 1
This is the first day of the calendar and is a general holiday around the world. In Cambodia, people celebrate by hanging out with friends or family, watching fireworks and making resolutions to start the cambodian new year.
Victory Day – January 7
Cambodia national holiday that commemorates the end of the Khmer Rouge regime in 1979, which left an estimated 1.7 million people dead. On this day, people pay their respects to the victims and heroes of the Holocaust.
International Women’s Day – March 8
An international day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. In Cambodia Women’s rights organizations and activists organize events and campaigns in support of gender equality. Raising Awareness and Empowerment.
Khmer New Year – April 13-16
It is the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. It is also called Songkran or Chon Chanam Thamei, which means “entering the new year”. Each day has a different theme and ritual. The first day is called Maha Songkran Day, which means “Big Change”: People clean their homes. Dressed in a new outfit Pray and pay homage to ancestors Visit the temple to receive blessings from the monks. The second day is called Virak Vanabati, which means “Charity Day.” People donate things to temples or the poor. showing kindness. The third day is called Tung Leng Saka, which means “new beginning.” People wash Buddha statues, elders, and relatives with fragrant water. It is a symbol of forgiveness and purity. There are also traditional games such as throwing water and talcum powder, as well as dancing and singing.
International Labor Day – May 1
A day to honor the contributions and achievements of workers and unions in Cambodia. Workers often organize rallies and demonstrations to demand better working conditions, wages and rights.
King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday – May 14
The day celebrates the birth of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, who ascended the throne in 2004. He is respected and loved by the Cambodian people and is a symbol of national unity. On this day, people will join in displaying the national flag, lighting incense sticks and candles, and asking for blessings for the King’s long life.
Visak Bochea Day – May 22
Buddhist holiday commemorating the Buddha. It is also called Visakha Bucha Day. On this day, Buddhists will observe the 5 precepts, meditate, listen to sermons, pray, offer flowers, incense sticks, candles, food, and release animals such as birds and fish to show kindness.
Royal Plowing Ceremony – May 26
Ancient rituals of the rice planting season, Also called Bonn Kho Phra Nong Khlo with the king or his representative presiding. He plowed a furrow with a sacred plow in a symbolic field near the palace. Afterwards, the cows are fed seven types of food, including rice, corn, beans, sesame, grass, water and wine, used to predict the weather, harvest and other events. It will depend on what the cow chooses to eat.
Queen Mother’s Birthday – June 18
The day celebrating the birth of King Norodom Sihanouk, wife of King Norodom Sihanouk and mother of King Norodom Sihanouk. Respected by Cambodians for humanitarian work, education and healthcare. People pay their respects by sending flowers, cards and gifts to the Mother.
Constitution Day – September 24
The day commemorates the promulgation of Cambodia’s current constitution in 1993, which established a constitutional monarchy and multiparty democracy, including human rights, the rule of law, and national sovereignty.
Pchum Ben – October 1-3
A Buddhist festival that honors the souls of the deceased. It is known as Ancestors Day. Duration: 15 days, with the last 3 days being Cambodia holidays. People would visit temples and offer food, flowers, incense and candles to the monks and spirits. Praying and making merit for the betterment of the souls of deceased relatives in rebirth.
Commemoration day of Late King Father – October 15
Today is a day to remember King Norodom Sihanouk, a revered figure in Cambodian history. He led the country to independence from France in 1953 and through various periods of turmoil and peace. Today, people will remember his legacy and achievements. Participating in ceremonies in honor of His Majesty.
Coronation Day of King Sihamoni – October 29
Today is the anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni in 2004. He succeeded his father, King Norodom Sihanouk, who abdicated due to ill health. On this day, people celebrate the king’s reign and wish him happiness and success.
National Independence Day – November 9
The day celebrates Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953 after nearly a century of colonial rule. It is also known as National Day or Liberation Day. On this day, people display the national flag, join the parade, cultural performance and watch the fireworks.
Water Festival – November 14-16
Traditional Festival of the Tonle Sap River which connects the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake. Also known as Bon Nom Tuk or Boat Racing Festival. It is one of the most popular and colorful events in Cambodia. It attracts millions of people from all over the country.
The highlight of the festival is the boat races held on the river. The festival also has other activities such as concerts, fireworks displays, and lantern floats.
Peace Day in Cambodia – December 29
The day commemorates the complete end of the civil war on December 29, 1998 by the Win-Win Policy, which brought peace and national unity to Cambodia, and expresses gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives for peace and national reconciliation. This inspires people to work together to promote peace, which is the life of the nation and is the most valuable foundation for national development and people’s happiness.
Here are the Cambodia public holidays 2024 that you can look forward to if you visit this amazing country. They give you the opportunity to learn more about history, culture, religion, and join in the fun and excitement of the locals. Be sure to book your accommodations and travel plans in advance as holidays tend to be very busy and crowded.
