What is Khmer New Year?
(Choul Chnam Thmey, literally “Enter New Year”), is the name of the Cambodian holiday that celebrates the traditional Lunar New Year.
The holiday lasts for three days beginning on New Year’s Day, which usually falls on April 13th or 14th, which is the end of the harvesting season, when farmers enjoy the fruits of their labor before the rainy season begins. The Khmer New Year coincides with the traditional solar new year in several parts of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.
Khmers living abroad may choose to celebrate during a weekend rather than just specifically April 13th through 16th.
If you haven’t experienced Songkran or the New Year Celebration in South East Asia, it is like no other celebration I have seen or taken part in. Trust me, the adventures never end!
How We Celebrated Khmer New Year
For the team at the hotel it is a time to pray, think of family, do good deeds, and a time to get wet and party.
This year the festivities started with a party in front of the hotel for friends, family, neighbors and anyone walking by, and what a party it was. From the food prepared by the Chef’s team, to the beer, to the music, dancing of course and no New Years Party is complete unless there is a little water.
Needless to say it was blast and enjoyed by all. This in itself was awesome, but day three of Khmer New Year was the best.
One of our team members, Soda, asked if children from his countryside village could play water in front of the hotel and if it was ok if they used some of our water guns. The answer, a resounding YES!!!!!
This was the best part of Khmer New Year, to see children playing and having fun was unbelievable! No matter what country you are in, nothing beats the smile on a child’s face.
No water fun is complete unless you get the owner wet too!
Going for walk to town during this time is sooooo much fun but be prepared to get a little wet, a little powdered, but most of all be prepared for a great time.
Your New Year’s isn’t complete unless you go to Pub Street and take part all the water play to be had. Bounce to the beat while getting doused with water all done with a smile on the face. Encounter young adults asking if it’s ok if they put powder on your face or having them spray you with water and talcum while saying sorry at the same time, and a smile on the face.
This is what life is about, taking part and enjoying cultural experiences. Life is about having fun and Khmer New Year is definitely fun.
We are already looking forward to Khmer New Year 2020 and hope you will join us.
Khmer New Year 2020 Special Offer
To lock in a special rate, email stay@thebutterflypea.com and type:
2020 with TBP
Please include your name, email, and telephone number. We will book you a special rate of $85/night, including a 15% discount on all meals and beverages, complimentary breakfast for two daily, r/t airport transfer and water gun (limit 2 per room). Offer good for stays including April 14 – 16, 2020.
We are looking forward to seeing you!