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The Cambodian Water Festival, known locally as Bon Om Touk, is going to be an epic three-day extravaganza of boats, lights and a whole lot of splashing fun. Celebrated this year from November 15 to 17, the festival marks one of the biggest events on the Cambodian calendar, and if you haven’t been yet, prepare yourself for a wild ride.
A Bit of History: More Than Just Splashing Around
The Water Festival is one of Cambodia’s oldest and most significant celebrations, dating back to the days of the mighty Angkor Empire (9th–15th century). This wasn’t just any casual river party, this festival originally honoured the powerful connection between the people and the Tonlé Sap River. It’s a big deal because this is the time when the river, which flows in reverse for part of the year, changes its course again. It was once a sign that the fishing season was about to begin and that farmers could rejoice at the fresh flow of water into their fields. But hold up! It’s not just about agriculture.
The festival also celebrates Cambodia’s historic military victories under the Angkor kings, who would send their warships down the river for battle. That’s why today’s festival is packed with boat races – think of it as a high-stakes nod to the naval glory of centuries past, but with a bit more cheering and fewer battles.
What’s Happening in 2024?
If you’re thinking of visiting Cambodia during the Water Festival 2024, get ready for an all-out sensory overload in Phnom Penh, where crowds from across the country flock, so expect it to be busy. Here’s what you can expect:
- Boat Races: The main event. Hundreds of brightly coloured boats, each filled with a team of oarsmen paddling like their lives depend on it, will race along the Tonlé Sap River. Each boat, long and narrow, cuts through the water at breakneck speed, with crowds of onlookers cheering wildly from the banks. The energy is electric, and if you’re not in the spirit yet, you will be after watching the first race.
- Light Shows & Fireworks: If the boats aren’t enough to blow your mind, wait until nightfall when the entire city lights up with sparkling illuminations and fireworks explode over the river. Don’t forget to look up, because you’ll be seeing pyrotechnics that could rival any New Year’s Eve bash.
- Street Food & Music: As if the racing and fireworks weren’t enough, the streets around the riverside will transform into one massive food fair. You can snack on local favourites like grilled skewers, nom banh chok (Cambodian noodles), or even crispy insects – if you’re feeling adventurous. Music and dance performances will pop up all over, making it impossible not to be swept up in the celebration.
- Reversing of the River: What makes this festival extra special is the natural phenomenon behind it. During the Water Festival, the Tonlé Sap River famously reverses its flow as the water level of the Mekong River drops. It’s like nature itself joins in the celebration, adding a mystical layer to the fun.
How to Survive (and Enjoy) Water Festival
- Get Ready for Crowds: If you think you’ve seen crowds before, think again. More than one million people pour into Phnom Penh for this event, so make sure you’ve got a game plan for navigating through the swarms of festival-goers. Pro tip: bring a fan and lots of water.
- Find a Good Spot Early: Want to watch the boat races without being stuck behind 200 other people? Arrive early and snag a spot near the riverbank, especially by the Royal Palace where the view is top-notch, or reserve a spot at one of the many rooftop bars that line the river.
- Go with the Flow (Literally): The Tonlé Sap River might reverse its course, but go with the flow of the festival. Things can get crowded, sweaty and a bit chaotic, but that’s all part of the fun. Relax, embrace the festive madness, and maybe even join in on a traditional dance or two.
Cambodia’s Water Festival is more than just a celebration; it’s an explosion of culture, history and full-on fun. With thrilling boat races, stunning light displays and an atmosphere that’s buzzing with excitement, it’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years.
