Cambodia festivals and events 2026: dates
Festivals and events in Cambodia in 2026: the dates of each one and what it means for your trip — celebrations, closures, high prices and when to book ahead.
Khmer New Year 2026
ClosuresThree-day new year (mid-April). Cities empty as locals head home; many shops and services close.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2026
CelebrationAncient royal rite in Phnom Penh marking the start of the planting season. Usually May.
Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day) 2026
ClosuresFifteen days honouring ancestors; Phnom Penh empties as people return to home provinces. Lunar dates, Sep–Oct.
The 15 waning-moon days of the Khmer month of Photrobot (the 10th), ending on the new moon of late September or October; the last three are public holidays.
Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) 2026
Book aheadBoat races on the Tonlé Sap draw huge crowds to Phnom Penh. Lunar dates, usually November.
Three days around the full moon of the Khmer month of Kadeuk (the 12th), between late October and late November.
