Cambodia is set to host an exciting lineup of festivals, cultural celebrations, sports events, and international tourism activities in 2026. Released by the Ministry of Tourism Cambodia, the official 2026 event calendar aims to help travelers plan unforgettable experiences across the Kingdom.
Whether you’re visiting Phnom Penh, exploring Angkor Wat, or discovering coastal and rural destinations, here’s your month-by-month guide to Cambodia’s top events in 2026.
January 2026: Fresh Starts & Cultural Traditions
The year opens with important holidays and traditional celebrations:
– New Year’s Day (Jan 1): Celebrated nationwide with visits to pagodas and blessings.
– Victory Over the Genocidal Regime (Jan 7): A key day of national remembrance.
– Ultra-Trail Angkor Marathon (Jan 17–19, Siem Reap): An international trail race through the Angkor temple complex.
– Bon Da Lien (Harvest Festival): A rural celebration of agricultural prosperity.
February 2026: Arts, Culture & Religion
– Meak Bochea Day (Feb 2): A major Buddhist observance marked by candlelight ceremonies.
– Angkor Photo Festival (Feb 12–16, Siem Reap): An internationally recognized photography event.
– Giant Puppet Parade (Feb 22): A lively and artistic street performance.
– Khmer Traditional Skirt Gala (Feb 24): Showcasing traditional fashion and culture.
March 2026: Festivals, Sports & Film
– International Women’s Run (Mar 8, Phnom Penh)
– Kep Half Marathon (Mar 8)
– River Festival (Mar 27–29, Kratie): Celebrates river life with performances and boat races.
– Angkor Equinox (Mar 21–23): A rare sunrise alignment at Angkor Wat.
– Cambodia International Film Festival (Mar 21–29): Featuring both local and global cinema.
April 2026: Khmer New Year & Cultural Highlights
– Khmer New Year (Apr 14–16): The country’s biggest celebration with traditional games and water festivities.
– Nokor Sangkranta (Apr 14–19): Events celebrating Khmer identity and heritage.
– Bonn Phum Festival: A contemporary take on traditional village culture.
– Arts & Cultural Exhibitions: Spotlighting emerging Cambodian artists.
May 2026: Royal Ceremonies & Tourism Events
– Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May 5): Marks the beginning of the rice-growing season.
– King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday (May 14)
– Visak Bochea Day (May 22): Honoring the life of the Buddha.
– Phnom Penh Designers Week: Promoting fashion and creative industries.
June 2026: Sports & Royal Celebrations
– Phnom Penh International Half Marathon (June 14): A major race through the capital.
– Queen Mother’s Birthday (June 18): Nationwide celebrations honoring the royal family.
July 2026: Heritage & Cultural Commemorations
– Preah Vihear Temple Run (July 5): A unique race at a UNESCO World Heritage site.
– UNESCO Heritage Anniversaries: Celebrations at Sambor Prei Kuk and Preah Vihear.
August 2026: Trade & Sports
– Angkor Empire Marathon (Aug 2): A scenic run through ancient temple grounds.
– CAMBO AGROTECH Expo (Aug 6–9): Highlighting advancements in agriculture and technology.
September 2026: Tourism & Natural Wonders
– World Tourism Day (Sept 27, Siem Reap): Featuring cultural showcases and tourism promotion.
– Angkor Equinox (Sept 21–23): Another opportunity to witness the iconic sunrise alignment.
– International Travel Expos: Connecting Cambodia with global tourism markets.
October 2026: Religious Festivals & National Holidays
– Pchum Ben (Oct 10–12): Honoring ancestors through Buddhist traditions.
– Commemoration Day of King Father Norodom Sihanouk (Oct 15)
– Coronation Day (Oct 29): Celebrating the King’s coronation.
– Smile of Angkor Festival: Cultural performances near Angkor.
November 2026: Major Festivals & Global Events
– Independence Day (Nov 9): Celebrated nationwide.
– 20th Francophonie Summit (Nov 14, Siem Reap): A major international gathering.
– Water Festival – Bon Om Touk (Nov 23–25): Cambodia’s most famous festival, featuring boat races in Phnom Penh.
– Film, Art & Circus Festivals: Including Tini Tinou Circus Festival and urban art events.
December 2026: Year-End Celebrations & Culture
– Angkor International Half Marathon (Dec 6)
– Sea Festival (December, coastal provinces): Promoting seaside tourism.
– National Book Fair (Dec 17–20)
– Celebrating Cambodia (Dec 31): Year-end festivities and performances.
– UNESCO Cultural Heritage Days: Showcasing traditions such as Krama, Chapei Dang Veng, and Bokator.
Source: Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia
