Cambodian people sure have a penchant for holidays, but for good reason. It’s a time when locals and travelers converge to celebrate the good nature of existence. Oftentimes, these holidays serve as an opportunity to express gratitude toward people or nature. The annual Siem Reap Water Festival is no different.

Set to take place from Saturday, March 16th to Sunday, March 17th 2024, the 8th Water Festival in Siem Reap will be celebrated in Siem Reap Province and organized by The Ministry of Tourism under the theme of “River for Peace and Development.”

The History of the Siem Reap Water Festival

At its core, Bon Om Touk celebrates a time when two of Cambodia’s most crucial rivers, the Mekong and Tonle Sap, reverse their flow. Previously, this natural wonder typically occurs in October or November, which is just after Cambodia’s rainy season. More specifically, it happens on the full moon of Kadeuk (a Buddhist month), the 12th day of Khmer’s lunar calendar.

On any normal day, the Tonle Sap river runs into the Mekong. After all the rain, both water sources become chock full of water. As a result, the Tonle Sap actually switches its direction, instead flowing upstream toward a lake of the same name. Eventually, the water levels lessen and the river returns to its typical course. This is a clear symbol of the end of the monsoon season, and is precisely what the Water Festival seeks to celebrate.

Since the river provides fertile soil and a surplus of fish, it’s a cultural metaphor for prosperity. That’s what led people to begin celebrating its thriving state in the first place. Ever since the 12th century, communities have used boat races to provide entertainment during the holiday. It was a testament to the start of fishing and farming seasons, both of which have given innumerable Cambodians a reliable livelihood for generations. Since its dawn, the festival has only grown, turning into a celebration that just cannot be missed.

Photos by David Anderson Stirling – The Little Red Fox Espresso

How Does Siem Reap Get Down?

Just like the rest of Cambodia, Siem Reap reserves a total of three days to celebrate the Water Festival. The festivities themselves consist of boat races, fireworks, musical shows and plenty more.

In this upcoming March 2024, the festival will also feature joyful activities including exhibition of tourism products and general products, The Mekong Food Festival and other entertainment line-ups along the Siem Reap River and Pub Street.

The holiday includes a trio of unique ceremonies. The first is Loy Pratip, when people bring boats into the waterways and illuminate them for all to see. Ultimately, it’s a parade that takes place on the water.

The second ceremony is Sampeas Preah Khe, a salute to the moon. Considering the full moon plays a critical role in the festival and the river itself, Cambodians believe it’s important to express gratitude to this key player.

Finally, Auk Ambok is when Buddhists come together to eat fried rice that’s been flattened in the husk and marinated with coconut and banana. It’s a traditional holiday dish that symbolizes a whole lot more than calories.

As a traveler visiting Siem Reap during Bon Om Touk, you’ll definitely want to witness some—if not all—of these meaningful ceremonies. All the while, be sure to catch the boat races each day, and stop by the carnival, concerts and dance shows while you’re at it.

The Aviary Hotel Welcomes You During Bon Om Touk

If you plan on traveling to Siem Reap during the Cambodian Water Festival, you’re definitely not alone. Thousands of other travelers, as well as a slew of locals, will be right alongside you. Whether in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh or another legendary locale, you’ll be setting your sights on festivities that reach the culture’s core.

At The Aviary Hotel, we couldn’t be more honored to pave the way for your experience through a cultural excursion as meaningful as Bon Om Touk.