Happy Khmer New Year 2026! (សួស្តីឆ្នាំថ្មី)
Khmer New Year, or Chaul Chnam Thmey (“Enter the New Year”), is a vibrant three-day celebration marking the end of the harvesting season and the start of the solar new year. In 2026, the main festivities will take place from April 14th to April 16th.
Key Highlights for Khmer New Year 2026:
- The Angel of 2026: The new year will be welcomed by Reaksa Tevy, one of the seven daughters of Kabil Moha Prum. She is associated with wearing black, which represents wisdom and protection.
- Three Days of Tradition:
- Day 1: Maha Sangkran (April 14): People dress in fine clothes, light incense and candles at homes and temples to welcome the new angel.
- Day 2: Veareak Vanabat (April 15): A day of giving charity, honoring parents/elders, and building sand mounds to seek blessings.
- Day 3: Veareak Laeung Sak (April 16): The cleansing day, involving the cleaning of Buddha statues with scented water (Pithi Chroah Teuk) and washing elders.
- Festivities: Expect traditional games like Bos Angkunh (seed tossing), Chhoung (scarf throwing), and lively dancing, alongside street water fights.
May this New Year bring you prosperity, peace, and happiness.
