Cambodia is a country with a rich culture and tradition. Its public holidays give us a chance to learn about its heritage. These holidays are based on religious and cultural events and allow us to experience the diverse Cambodian life. In 2024, there are some important public holidays that highlight the country’s customs and traditions. Let’s explore each of these holidays and their significance in Cambodian society.

1. Public Holidays in Cambodia for 2024

Here is a list of Cambodia’s public holidays in 2024, along with a brief description of each.

1. New Year’s Day
   • Date: January 1
   • Location: Nationwide
   • Description: The New Year is celebrated with excitement and happiness throughout Cambodia. This is shown through different cultural events, fireworks, and gatherings with loved ones.
2. Victory Day
   • Date: January 7
   • Location: Nationwide
   • Description: Recognized worldwide, this day celebrates the work of employees. In Cambodia, it is a day off for the public, and there may be different events and activities to appreciate the workforce.
3. International Women’s Day
   • Date: March 8
   • Location: Nationwide
4. Khmer New Year (Chaul Chhnam Thmey)
   • Date: April 13 to April 16
   • Location: Nationwide, with official celebrations in Siem Reap and Battambang
   • Description: This festival is celebrated for three days, marking the end of the harvest season, featuring parades, traditional games, water fights, and other activities.
5. Labour Day
   • Date: May 1
   • Location: Nationwide
6. King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday
   • Date: May 14
   • Location: Nationwide
   • Description: Celebrates the birthday of the present king who has been on the throne since 2004.
7. Visak Bochea Day
   • Date: May 22
   • Location: Nationwide
   • Description: Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Lord Buddha.
8. Royal Plowing Ceremony (Bonn Chroat Preah Nongkoal)
   • Date: May 26
   • Location: Next to the Royal Palace and Siem Reap
   • Description: This traditional ceremony signifies the start of the rice cultivation period. It is a highly symbolic occasion where the king or a representative plows furrows and plants seeds in a sacred field.
9. King’s Mother Birthday, Norodom Monineath Sihanouk
   • Date: June 18
   • Location: Nationwide
10. Constitution Day
    • Date: September 24
    • Location: Nationwide
11. Pchum Ben
    • Date: October 1 to October 3
    • Location: Nationwide
    • Description: Pchum Ben is a religious festival where people honor their deceased relatives by offering food and prayers at pagodas.
12. Commemoration Day of King Father’s Norodom Sihanouk
    • Date: October 15
    • Location: Nationwide
    • Description: This day honors the memory of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, a revered figure in Cambodian history.
13. King Norodom Sihamoni’s Coronation Day
    • Date: October 29
    • Location: Nationwide
14. Independence Day
    • Date: November 9
    • Location: Nationwide
15. Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)
    • Date: November 14 to November 16
    • Location: Nationwide, with dramatic longboat races held over three days in Phnom Penh and one day in Siem Reap.
    • Description: Also called Bon Om Touk, this festival celebrates the change in the direction of the Tonle Sap River. It’s a remarkable event with boat races, lit-up floats, and lively celebrations along the riverbanks.

2. Modern Events

• Cambodian Senate Election
  • Date: February 25
• Cambodian Provincial Elections
  • Date: May 26

Conclusion: Understanding Cambodia’s public holidays in 2024 is a great way to appreciate the country’s rich culture and traditions. Whether you’re planning a trip or just interested in learning about different cultures, these holidays give you insight into Cambodia’s identity and values. Embracing these festive occasions can help you understand the local way of life and create memorable experiences.

Keep these holidays in mind when planning your trip to Cambodia, and you might get to celebrate with the friendly people of this beautiful nation.