From the joyful chaos of Khmer New Year in April to the spectacular boat races of the Water Festival in November, here is your complete guide to every major event and celebration in Siem Reap.
Major Festivals & Events
Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)
April 13-16, 2026Cambodia's biggest celebration. Three days of water play, temple visits, traditional games, family gatherings and feasting. The entire city transforms with decorations, street concerts and community events.
Join in the water celebrations and visit pagodas early morning for the most authentic experience.
Visak Bochea (Buddha Day)
May 2026 (full moon)Celebrates the birth, enlightenment and passing of Buddha. Candlelit processions circle temples at dusk. Monks lead prayers and meditation sessions open to visitors.
Join the candlelit walk at Wat Bo or Wat Preah Prom Rath for an unforgettable evening.
Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day)
September/October 2026 (15 days)A deeply meaningful 15-day Buddhist festival honoring deceased ancestors. Families visit pagodas at dawn to offer food to monks. The final 3 days (Pchum Ben proper) are national holidays.
Visit pagodas before sunrise to witness the food offerings. Respectful dress (knees and shoulders covered) required.
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)
November 2026 (3 days)One of Southeast Asia's most spectacular festivals. Traditional longboat races on the Tonle Sap River, illuminated floats, fireworks displays and a full moon celebration drawing over 2 million visitors nationwide.
Book accommodation 2-3 months in advance. The riverfront offers the best viewing spots.
Angkor Sankranti
December 2026A cultural festival held at the Angkor Wat complex featuring traditional Khmer games, classical dance performances, live music, craft exhibitions and food stalls showcasing regional cuisine.
Arrive early to enjoy the games and performances at the Angkor Wat esplanade.
Angkor Wat International Half Marathon
December 2026Run through the Angkor Wat temple complex at sunrise. Categories include 21km half marathon, 10km run, and 3km fun run. Over 10,000 participants from 70+ countries. Registration opens mid-year.
Register by September for early-bird pricing. The 21km route passes through 5 major temples.
Siem Reap Food Festival
Dates vary (check locally)A growing annual event bringing together Siem Reap's best restaurants, street food vendors and cooking demonstrations. Local and international cuisine, chef competitions and culinary workshops.
Follow @siemreaphub for date announcements and participating restaurant previews.
Monthly & Recurring Events
Full Moon Gatherings — meditation sessions and community events at local pagodas on every full moon night. Open to all visitors.
Expat Meetups — weekly and monthly social gatherings at popular venues. Check community boards at The Bean Embassy and Sister Srey Cafe.
Charity Events — regular fundraisers, fun runs and community dinners organized by local NGOs. A great way to connect and contribute.
Practical Information
What to Wear
Cover knees and shoulders at temples and pagodas. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal. Bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor festivals.
How to Participate
Most festivals are open to everyone. Respectful observation is always welcome. Ask before photographing ceremonies.
Transportation During Festivals
Roads near major venues may be closed. Tuk-tuks remain available but expect higher demand. Book rides in advance during Water Festival.
Accommodation Tips
Khmer New Year and Water Festival are peak periods. Book hotels 2-3 months ahead. Prices can increase 50-100% during these events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which festival is the most spectacular to attend?
The Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November offers the most visual spectacle with boat races and fireworks. Khmer New Year in April is the most festive and participatory.
Are festivals in Siem Reap suitable for families?
All major festivals welcome families. Khmer New Year and Angkor Sankranti feature games and activities designed for children. Bring water and snacks for young children.
Do businesses close during major festivals?
Most tourist-facing businesses (hotels, restaurants, tour operators) remain open. Local shops and government offices close for 3-5 days during Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben.
Is it safe to visit Siem Reap during festivals?
Absolutely. Festivals in Siem Reap are joyful, community-centered celebrations. Large events have police presence and are well-organized. Streets may be busier than usual, and some roads close temporarily for parades. The atmosphere is festive and welcoming toward international visitors.
Which festival offers the best photography opportunities?
The Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) is a photographer's dream with colorful boat races, illuminated floats, and fireworks over the river. Khmer New Year also offers vibrant street scenes and traditional games. Visak Bochea features stunning candlelit processions at temples after dark. For wildlife photography, time your visit with the Prek Toal bird nesting season (December-March).
How can I participate respectfully in Cambodian festivals?
Dress modestly when visiting temples during festivals (cover shoulders and knees). Ask before photographing monks or religious ceremonies. Join in water-splashing during Khmer New Year — locals love when visitors participate. Remove shoes when entering temple grounds. Accept food or drinks offered with both hands as a sign of respect. Learning a few Khmer words like 'Akun' (thank you) goes a long way.
Where is the best spot to watch boat races during the Water Festival?
The Siem Reap River waterfront near the Royal Gardens offers excellent viewing spots. Arrive early (before 8 AM) to secure a good position. Some riverside restaurants offer reserved seating with meals. The bridge near Pub Street provides elevated views. In Phnom Penh, the Tonle Sap River banks near the Royal Palace are the prime location for the biggest races.
What should I wear to temple festivals?
Cover your shoulders and knees — this is respectful dress code for any temple visit. Loose, lightweight clothing in breathable fabrics works best in the tropical heat. Wear shoes that are easy to remove, as you take them off before entering temple buildings. A sarong or cover-up kept in your bag is practical for spontaneous temple visits. White clothing is appropriate for Pchum Ben and other Buddhist ceremonies.
When are the major festivals in 2026?
Key 2026 dates: Khmer New Year: April 14-16. Visak Bochea: May (full moon). Pchum Ben: September-October (15-day period). Water Festival (Bon Om Touk): November (full moon). Angkor Sankranti: December. Exact dates for lunar-calendar festivals vary each year — check locally as dates approach.
Do businesses close during Khmer New Year?
Tourist-oriented businesses (hotels, major restaurants, tour operators) stay open throughout Khmer New Year. Local shops, markets, banks and government offices close for 3-5 days (April 14-18). Some Cambodian-owned restaurants may close or reduce hours. Stock up on essentials before April 14. It is the busiest travel period for domestic tourists, so book accommodations in advance.
Siem Reap's festival calendar offers year-round opportunities to experience Cambodian culture firsthand. Each celebration reveals a different facet of this deeply spiritual and joyful community.