April 14 marks the beginning of the Khmer New Year (Joul Chnam Khmer), which is officially a three-day holiday that extends from April 14-16. But much like Christmas in the states, locals celebrate Joul Chnam Khmer for at least one week, if not 2-3 weeks. Celebrations include big meals, traditional games, and dancing, as well as giving gifts of money.
Joul Chnam Khmer is a celebration of the solar new year, which is also observed by most countries across south Asia. Interestingly, Cambodians also mark the new year with the same Zodiac system observed in east Asia. This year is the year of the Ox.
Welcoming the new year includes several traditional Buddhist customs. On the first day, April 14, families prepare an offering at their household shrine for the visit of the new year’s angel. The offering includes fruit, cans of soda, and flowers, and they burn incense until the angel comes. According to Khmer tradition, the country has seven guardian angels that protect the country over the next year and bless households that provide an offering. There is one angel for each day of the week, so they alternate depending on what day April 14 falls on. In addition to awaiting the angel at the household shrines, families also spend time at the temple praying, remembering their ancestors, and celebrating.
Despite the religious significance of the holiday, Khmer Christians still consider Joul Chnam Khmer to be one of the most important holidays of the year. Even though they do not celebrate with the traditional Buddhist customs, it is still one of the few times that whole families gather. Cambodia is still quite a rural society and typically city dwellers use this holiday as an opportunity to return to the provinces to celebrate with family. Unfortunately, this year, due to a recent Covid outbreak, the government has restricted travel across provinces. This, of course, is a huge bummer for those who live in Phnom Penh who are prevented from seeing family.
It’s a lot of fun hanging out with family and friends. Malachi sure thinks so!