Your Guide to Kampot's Vibrant Festival Schedule in 2025

Having explored Kampot's vibrant cultural scene for years, I've seen firsthand how its festivals truly bring the city to life. Planning your visit around these celebrations offers an unforgettable experience, immersing you in local traditions and joyous community spirit. This guide provides a comprehensive Kampot festival schedule 2025, ensuring you won't miss out on any of the exciting events. From major national holidays to unique local gatherings, knowing the key dates helps optimize your travel plans. Prepare to discover the lively atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry that makes Kampot a truly special destination for festival-goers. Enhance your Kampot experience with our Kampot accommodation guide. Explore festival culture with our Kampot festival guide.

Bon Om Touk: The Water Festival in Kampot (November 2025)

The annual Bon Om Touk, or Water Festival, stands as one of Cambodia's most significant public holidays, and Kampot celebrates it with particular enthusiasm. Typically held over three days around the full moon of the Buddhist month of Kadeuk, which falls in November 2025, this event marks the reversal of the Tonle Sap River's flow and the start of the fishing season. The city buzzes with activity, featuring boat races along the Kampot River, parades, and spectacular fireworks displays. From my experience, securing accommodation early is essential, as the city fills up quickly. It's a truly mesmerizing cultural spectacle, showcasing the unique Cambodian spirit. For precise dates and more details, explore our guide to the Water Festival Kampot 2025 dates. Discover event magic with our Kampot festival guide.

Kampot International Film Festival (Late 2025)

While still a relatively new addition to Kampot's event calendar, the Kampot International Film Festival has quickly gained traction, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from across the region. Usually held in late 2025, around November or December, this festival showcases a diverse range of independent and international films, offering a refreshing cultural alternative to traditional celebrations. It provides a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary arts and enjoy screenings in various venues across the city. As a film enthusiast, I always look forward to discovering new talent here. Keep an eye on official announcements for specific dates and Kampot Film Festival tickets, as programming details typically emerge closer to the event. Discover event magic with our Kampot festival guide.

Choul Chnam Thmey: Cambodian New Year (April 2025)

Choul Chnam Thmey, the Cambodian New Year, is a joyous and widely celebrated festival taking place over three days, typically in mid-April 2025. It's a time for family gatherings, temple visits, and traditional games, marking the end of the harvest season. While not as publicly grand as the Water Festival, the energy in Kampot during this period is palpable, with locals engaging in spirited water splashing and talc throwing. This is a deeply cultural holiday where you can observe authentic Cambodian traditions. I particularly enjoy seeing the local temples adorned with colorful decorations. Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere and learn more about Cambodian New Year Kampot traditions.

Other Notable Annual Events in Kampot

Beyond the major celebrations, Kampot hosts several smaller but equally engaging annual events throughout the year that contribute to the lively Kampot festival schedule 2025. These often include local sports tournaments, smaller cultural performances, and community-led art exhibitions. For instance, the annual Durian Festival celebrates Kampot's famous durian fruit with a lively market and tastings. While dates for these might fluctuate, they offer a deeper insight into local life and community spirit. It's always worth checking local listings upon arrival for current happenings. Discover more about the diverse array of festivals and events that make Kampot a compelling destination year-round. Discover the best local cuisine with our Kep food guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring Kampot's vibrant festival schedule in 2025 offers a unique window into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. From the exhilarating boat races of the Water Festival to the intimate family gatherings of Cambodian New Year, each event provides an authentic glimpse into the heart of the community. Planning your visit around these key dates ensures you don't miss out on unforgettable experiences. Always remember to book accommodations early, especially during peak festival times. Dive into the local celebrations and create lasting memories in this charming riverside city.