The Cambodian New Year, also known as Khmer New Year or Chol Chnam Thmay or Maha Sankrant, is a vibrant celebration of the country’s rich cultural heritage. It is the most important holiday in the Cambodian calendar, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year. It is deeply rooted in religious and spiritual traditions, with many aspects of the celebration reflecting the country’s strong Buddhist beliefs. 

The celebration takes place over three days in mid-April, coinciding with the end of the harvest season. It is a time to pay respect to ancestors, seek blessings from the gods, and honor the natural world. As such, it is a time for reflection, renewal, and community building. During the three days of the Cambodian New Year, locals participate in a range of events and activities that reflect the festival’s importance and energy. 

Three days of Khmer New Year: The first day of Cambodian New Year is known as Moha Sangkran. This day marks the end of the old year, and the arrival of the new. On this day, locals will often visit temples to offer prayers and blessings. The second day of the festival is called Wanabat, a time for charity work and offering food to monks. The third and final day of the festival is called Tngai Leang Sak, a time for families to gather together and enjoy traditional foods and music.


 

Traditional Games and Entertainment: Cambodian New Year is a time for celebration and fun, with many traditional games and activities taking place throughout the festival. One popular game is chhoung, where participants throw a ball back and forth. There are also traditional dance performances, music concerts, and parades.

Visiting Temples and Offering Prayers: Visiting temples and offering prayers is an essential part of the Cambodian New Year. During the festival, many temples will be decorated with flowers and devotees will offer incense, candles, and food as a sign of respect for the gods. This is a time for reflection and spiritual renewal, as locals seek guidance and blessings for the coming year.