Chinese New Year 2025 in Cambodia

Although Cambodians have their own Khmer New Year celebrations in April, the Chinese New Year is also observed with enthusiasm. On the streets, Lion and Dragon dances are a central part of the festivities. These performances are thought to bring luck to spectators, with longer dances considered especially auspicious. People often give small donations to keep the lions dancing longer, adding to the festive spirit and communal joy.

Lunar New Year Traditions

In Cambodia, homes are beautifully adorned with yellow flowers like Pka Angkea Sel, which symbolize prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Another cherished Lunar New Year tradition involves giving red envelopes, or Ang Pao, containing money as gifts to relatives and children. Traditional festive foods such as dumplings, spring rolls, and Nian Gao (sweet sticky rice cakes) are believed to bring luck and abundance, adding a culinary charm to the celebrations. Firecrackers are commonly used to ward off evil spirits, creating a lively and encouraging atmosphere.

In preparation for the Chinese New Year, Cambodian families of Chinese heritage engage in symbolic rituals and thorough cleaning, decorating their homes with red "Good Wish" banners and couplets. Many set up elaborate displays for offerings and purchase food, gifts, and new clothes to welcome the year. As the festivities approach, some travel to their rural hometowns to celebrate with family and friends, making it a time of joyous reunions and cultural appreciation.

Chinese New Year in Phnom Penh

During the Lunar New Year, Phnom Penh transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration. Streets come alive with traditional lion and dragon dancers performing in front of homes and businesses, accompanied by the sound of drums and firecrackers. The performers bring good luck, while greetings of "Gong Xi Fa Cai!" (meaning "Wish You Get Rich") fill the air. This festive atmosphere continues for 12 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival, where colorful displays light up the city.

Prominent locations like Wat Phnom see heightened activity, especially at midnight on New Year's Eve. Cambodians of Chinese descent flock to the pagoda for offerings and rituals aimed at attracting good fortune. The temple grounds bustle with attendees purchasing Angkea Sel, yellow flowering bushes believed to bring prosperity if they bloom during the first three days of the New Year. Red couplets, lanterns, and floral decorations add to the festive charm of the city, making Phnom Penh an extraordinary sight during the Lunar New Year.