The Cambodian Water Festival, known locally as Bon Om Touk, is one of the kingdom’s most beloved celebrations. In Phnom Penh and across the provinces, families gather to mark the end of the rainy season and to give thanks for the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. In 2024 the festival ran from 14 – 16 November, but a lot has changed since then. The 2025 edition falls on a different set of dates and, due to a border crisis, the capital has cancelled its official celebrations. This updated guide from 1Byte explains what to expect in 2025, where to join the festivities and how to make the most of Cambodia’s Water Festival.
What’s New in 2025?
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Festival Dates
Bon Om Touk is set by the Khmer lunar calendar, so the dates shift every year. In 2025 the full moon of the month Kadeuk falls on Tuesday 4 November, and the public holiday runs through Thursday 6 November. Several reputable sources, including Cambodia’s public-holiday calendar and travel advisories, confirm that the 2025 festival will span these three days. Travellers should still double‑check closer to the time, as lunar-based dates occasionally change.
Cancellation of the Phnom Penh Celebration
In early September 2025, the Cambodian government announced that formal celebrations in Phnom Penh are cancelled. Authorities cited a border crisis with Thailand and said they needed to concentrate resources on humanitarian assistance. Boat races and ceremonies in other cities and provinces are still permitted, and the national holiday remains in place. The capital will instead host a Khmer Streat night market on Koh Norea, featuring food stalls and cultural performances from 4–6 November.
Where to Celebrate in 2025
Because Phnom Penh’s signature boat races along the Sisowath Quay are off the calendar, travellers should head to other cities to experience the Water Festival spirit. Here are some recommended venues:
| Province/City | Highlights in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Siem Reap | Boat races take place on the Tonlé Sap lake. The city is quieter than Phnom Penh but still features illuminated boats, traditional dance performances and floating candle ceremonies. Visitors can also explore nearby Angkor temples between events. |
| Sihanoukville | The coastal city uses the festival as an excuse for beach parties and boat processions at sea. Fireworks and concerts create a relaxed atmosphere. |
| Kampot | Lantern‑lit races on the river offer a more intimate experience. Food stalls here serve classic dishes such as Amok and Lok Lak. |
| Battambang & other provinces | Smaller towns often organise their own long‑boat races and lantern ceremonies. These events are less crowded and give a glimpse of rural Cambodian life. |
Even if you remain in Phnom Penh during the holiday, you can still attend the Khmer Streat Night Market on Koh Norea. The three‑day market will host shadow puppet shows, traditional dances, fashion shows and cooking demonstrations. It’s not a substitute for the river races, but it does provide entertainment during the public holiday.
Understanding the Water Festival
The Water Festival is deeply rooted in Cambodian culture. Historically, it marked the end of the rainy season and celebrated the moment when the Tonlé Sap River reverses its flow, sending nutrient‑rich water back into the Mekong. This natural phenomenon ensures fertile soil for farmers and abundant fish for local communities. The festival also commemorates 12th‑century naval victories under King Jayavarman VII; long‑boat races symbolise the training of his warriors.
Festival Highlights and Activities
Although the scale will vary by location in 2025, many traditions remain unchanged:
Long‑Boat Races
The pirogue races are the centrepiece of Bon Om Touk. Teams paddle brightly painted boats, each carrying dozens of rowers, to the beat of drums. Even in smaller provinces, hundreds of boats may compete, echoing the spectacular regatta that normally draws crowds to Phnom Penh. The racing schedule is usually tied to the tides; races typically start in the afternoon and continue through dusk.
Illuminated Boat Processions and Lantern Releases
At night, rivers across Cambodia glow with light. Illuminated barges representing government ministries or local organisations sail in procession. The Bondet Bratib (also called Loy Pratip) ceremony involves releasing lanterns onto the water and into the sky. These floating lights symbolise thanks to the river and hopes for future prosperity.
Traditional Performances and Street Food
Visitors will find live music, traditional Khmer dancing and theatrical performances in every major celebration. Street vendors offer seasonal snacks like Ambok (flattened rice mixed with banana and coconut) and Ak Ambok. In Siem Reap and Kampot, you can also sample regional specialties such as Kralan and fresh seafood. Night markets and makeshift fairs are common, particularly during Phnom Penh’s Khmer Streat event.
Cultural Etiquette and Safety Tips
Cambodians see the Water Festival as a time of gratitude and community. Dress modestly, respect temple customs and ask permission before taking photos. Large crowds and narrow riverbanks can present safety challenges: pickpockets are known to operate during boat races, so keep valuables secured. If you’re attending events outside the capital, book accommodation early—rooms near the waterfront fill up quickly during the holiday.
Key Facts for 2025
| Element | 2025 Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | 4 – 6 November 2025 (public holiday; lunar calendar) |
| Phnom Penh status | Official Water Festival events (boat races and illuminated processions) cancelled due to a border crisis; alternative “Khmer Streat Night Market” held on Koh Norea |
| Major venues | Siem Reap (Tonlé Sap races), Sihanoukville (coastal celebrations), Kampot (lantern‑lit races), Battambang and other provinces |
| Main ceremonies | Long‑boat races, Bondet Bratib/Loy Pratip lantern ceremony, Sampeah Preah Khae (moon salutation) and Auk Ambok rice feast |
| Historical roots | Celebrates reversal of Tonlé Sap’s flow and commemorates Angkorian naval victories |
| Travel tips | Confirm dates and local schedules; book accommodations early; keep valuables secure; dress respectfully; enjoy regional foods and performances |
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Planning Your Visit with 1Byte
As Cambodia’s leading cloud and hosting provider, 1Byte is proud to share the joy of Bon Om Touk with travellers and customers. While the cancellation of Phnom Penh’s official celebration may change your itinerary, the Water Festival remains a vibrant, country‑wide event. Whether you’re streaming a live feed of the boat races or sharing photos with friends back home, 1Byte’s infrastructure can help you stay connected wherever you celebrate. To explore our hosting services, domain registration, SSL certificates or cloud servers, visit 1Byte’s service page.
Mark your calendar: 4 – 6 November 2025. Join Cambodians around the country in celebrating Bon Om Touk’s centuries‑old traditions, embrace the sense of community and enjoy the food, lights and music that make this festival unforgettable.