Khmer New Year 2013: Snake Year

The Khmer New Year is one of the most important holidays in Cambodia. It is a significant event that is usually celebrated around April 13 to 15 or April 14 to 16 annually. This year, the Khmer New Year days fall on April 14 to 16 and it marks the end of the year of the Dragon and welcomes the year of the Snake.

Traditionally, Cambodian people go back to their hometowns to visit their relatives and friends, and to go to the pagodas (temples). It is also the time for joyful activities where the youth gather around to play different kinds of traditional games such as Choul Chhoung, Leak Kanseng, Chab Kon Kleng, Bos Angkonh, and Sva Donderm Slek Chher. In Phnom Penh, Cambodians regularly come together around the Wat Phnom to play games and to watch public concerts.

Khmer New Year is the beginning of the year for Cambodians. It is thanksgiving for the recent past and hope for the bright future.