May

The Visakh Bochea Day – Mid May: called “Bon Visakh Bochea” in the Khmer language, marks the anniversary of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death, or rather parinirvana. Held during the sixth full moon of the lunar calendar, it involves chanting, sermons and a candlelit procession to wats.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony – Mid May: This is an ancient royal rite held in Cambodia to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing season. The ritual is performed at the start of the rainy season in late May each year, with representatives of the king taking the role of King Meakh, who leads the yoke and plough, and Queen Mehour, who sows the seeds. After circling the field three times, the procession stops at a shrine where Brahmins invoke the protection of the gods. Sacred cows are then brought to eat from seven silver trays containing such things as rice, corn, beans, sesame seeds, grass, water and wine, and predictions are made for the coming year based upon what they select. The harvest will be good if they choose the cereals, rain will be abundant if they drink water, but trouble is feared if they eat herbs or drink alcohol.

Other Events