International New Year’s Day in Cambodia: Visitor Guide

International New Year’s Day in Cambodia is celebrated on 1 January, especially in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and major tourism centres. It is separate from Khmer New Year in April, but hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and entertainment districts often welcome the Gregorian new year with countdowns and special programmes.

How Cambodia marks 1 January

Public celebrations vary by city and year. Phnom Penh riverside venues, central squares, malls and hotels may offer live music, dinners or fireworks. Siem Reap’s visitor districts often hold outdoor entertainment, while beach destinations organise resort and restaurant events.

New Year’s Day is a public holiday, so banks, government offices and some businesses may close or shorten their hours. Tourist attractions usually publish their own schedules.

Planning for New Year’s Eve

• Reserve accommodation and dinner early in popular districts.
• Use licensed transport and agree on a meeting point.
• Expect traffic controls and large crowds near countdown venues.
• Confirm whether a ticket includes food, drinks or a reserved seat.
• Follow local rules for fireworks and public drinking.

International and Khmer New Year

International New Year follows the global calendar on 1 January. Khmer New Year, or Chaul Chnam Thmey, is the major traditional celebration in April and has distinct religious, family and cultural customs.

Related guides

• New Year countdown events in Cambodia
• Cambodia events and festivals calendar
• Christmas in Cambodia

Frequently asked questions

Is 1 January a holiday in Cambodia?

It is generally listed as a public holiday, but travellers should confirm the official calendar for the relevant year.

Where are the largest countdowns?

Programmes commonly appear in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and coastal tourism areas, but locations change annually.

Sources

• Tourism Cambodia: Events in Cambodia

Original KhmerKeys editorial guide. Verify each year’s programme with official organisers.