Khmer New Year, also known as Choul Chhnam Thmey, is the most important holiday in Cambodia. It is a time for families to come together, celebrate the end of the harvest season, and welcome in the new year with fresh starts.
The Khmer New Year is celebrated on the 13th or 14th of April each year, according to the solar calendar. The celebrations last for three days, and each day has its own special traditions.
On the first day of Khmer New Year, people wake up early to clean their homes and temples. They also prepare special foods to offer to their ancestors and monks. In the evening, people gather at temples to pray and listen to sermons.
People praying at a temple during Khmer New Year
On the second day of Khmer New Year, people visit their elders and exchange gifts. They also give money to children and poor people. In the evening, people gather to play traditional games, sing songs, and dance.
Family and friends gathering to play games and celebrate Khmer New Year
On the third day of Khmer New Year, people release animals from cages as a symbol of letting go of the past and welcoming in the new year with a fresh start. In the evening, people gather at temples to water Buddha statues and pray for good luck in the coming year.
People releasing animals from cages during Khmer New Year
Khmer New Year is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate their culture and traditions. It is also a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year with hope and optimism.
Khmer New Year traditions
Khmer New Year celebrations around the world
Khmer New Year is celebrated not only in Cambodia, but also by Cambodian communities around the world. In the United States, there are large Khmer New Year celebrations in cities such as Lowell, Massachusetts; Long Beach, California; and Seattle, Washington.
There are many different traditions associated with Khmer New Year. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Building sandcastles: On the first day of Khmer New Year, people build sandcastles around pagodas and banyan trees. The sandcastles are decorated with flowers, candles, and incense sticks. They are believed to bring good luck in the new year.
- Water blessing: On the third day of Khmer New Year, people pour water over Buddha statues and monks. This is a way to cleanse themselves of the past year’s bad luck and to pray for good luck in the new year.
- Traditional games: People of all ages enjoy playing traditional Khmer games during Khmer New Year. Some of the most popular games include chol chhoung (a ball throwing game) and sbek thom (a stilt walking race).
- Traditional food: Khmer New Year is a time to enjoy special foods that are only prepared during this time of year. Some of the most popular dishes include bai sach chrouk (grilled pork wrapped in rice paper), amok (fish steamed in banana leaves), and khao khmer (fried rice).
No matter where you are in the world, you can celebrate Khmer New Year by joining in on the festivities or by simply enjoying a delicious Khmer meal with your family and friends.
