lifestyle
Updated 2026-11-07 5 min
In short
- ●The Lotus Festival takes place at Lotus Silk Farm in Siem Reap from November 7 to 25, 2026, a total of 19 days.
- ●It showcases the revival of Khmer crafts and runs alongside the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh.
- ●Entry is free, every day from 8am to 8pm. The program features crafts, music and food.
- ●This year's edition is happening right now: just show up during opening hours, as no registration has been announced.
Nov 7–25, 2026 (19 days)
Edition
Open entry, no announced limit
Attendance
Lotus Silk Farm, Siem Reap
Location
Free, 8am–8pm
Cost
About the Lotus Festival
The Lotus Festival opens the lotus fields of Lotus Silk Farm to the public for nineteen days. It celebrates Khmer crafts, music and local cuisine.
- Dates: November 7 to 25, 2026, every day, 8am to 8pm.
- Audience: expats, long-stay travelers, families, the French-speaking community and anyone curious about crafts.
- Location: Lotus Silk Farm, Siem Reap.
- Group size: open entry, no announced capacity. You can come solo, as a couple or with a group.
- Cost: free entry. Craft purchases and food are extra.
The festival coincides with the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh. It gives Siem Reap a showcase for the revival of Khmer craftsmanship.
Daily Schedule
The organizers haven't published exact times for each activity. Here is a rough outline based on the 8am–8pm opening hours and the three main themes announced: crafts, music and food.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 8am – 11am | Lotus field walk | Cooler morning, good light for photos and fewer people. |
| 11am – 2pm | Crafts and lunch | Browse the Khmer craft stalls and take a lunch break on site. |
| 2pm – 5pm | Meet the artisans | A quieter time to chat, watch the techniques up close and choose what to buy. |
| 5pm – 6:30pm | Late afternoon on site | Golden light over the fields and a more relaxed atmosphere. |
| 6:30pm – 8pm | Music and food evening | Live music and dinner until closing at 8pm. Exact program to be confirmed on site. |
Tip: to find out what's on each day, check the festival's official pages or ask at the entrance.
How to Take Part
The 2026 edition runs until November 25. No registration was mentioned in the source. Here's how to plan your visit.
- Step 1: pick your day between November 7 and 25. Weekdays are often quieter.
- Step 2: follow the Lotus Silk Farm and festival pages for schedule updates.
- Step 3: check how to get there and what the ride costs. Ask your hotel or tuk-tuk driver to confirm the address.
- Step 4: arrive early, around 8am, to enjoy the lotus fields while it's still cool.
- Step 5: plan to come back in the evening if you want the music and food part, which runs until 8pm.
- Step 6: arrange your ride home in advance. Keep your driver's number or book a ride-hailing app.
- Step 7: share the info in your expat or traveler groups. Entry is free and the event works well for group outings.
What to Bring
- Hat and sunglasses — the fields are open-air and the sun is strong during the day.
- Sunscreen — essential for a visit of several hours.
- Water bottle — staying hydrated is key, even in the cooler season.
- Cash in riel or dollars — handy for small craft purchases and food.
- Comfortable shoes — the paths around the fields can be uneven.
- Charged phone or power bank — for photos, maps and calling your driver.
- Mosquito repellent — recommended near the water, especially toward evening.
- Small bag or tote bag — to carry your purchases of scarves, textiles or souvenirs.
Similar Events in Siem Reap
Siem Reap hosts events around crafts, culture and food all year round. Always check dates before heading out.
- Craft markets and night markets — designer stalls, textiles, street food and an evening atmosphere in the town center.
- Phare, The Cambodian Circus — Khmer circus and live performing arts, with regular evening shows.
- Artisan workshops in Siem Reap — silk, ceramics and sculpture, with workshop visits offered by several local organizations.
- Institut français du Cambodge — cultural programming and events for the French-speaking community, to follow on its official pages.
- Siem Reap expat Facebook and Telegram groups — a good place to spot outings, markets and last-minute events.
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to the Lotus Festival really free?
Yes, entry is free every day, from 8am to 8pm, November 7 to 25, 2026. Craft purchases and food are at your own expense. Set aside a small budget if you'd like to take home a souvenir.
Do I need to register or book before coming?
No registration has been announced. Entry is open during opening hours. If you're coming with a group or looking for a specific activity, contact Lotus Silk Farm to confirm.
What is the best time of day to go?
Mornings, from 8am, are cooler and quieter, with good light for photos. Late afternoon and evening are better if you want the music and food, which run until 8pm.
How is the festival connected to the Francophonie Summit?
The festival runs alongside the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh. It gives Siem Reap a showcase for the revival of Khmer crafts. It is also a highlight for the local French-speaking community.
Is the festival suitable for families and long-term travelers?
Yes, the event is free, outdoors and open all day. It works well for a family outing, a day with friends or a solo visit. Remember water, sun protection and mosquito repellent.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia