Chol Chnam Thmay, or the Khmer New Year, is one of the most significant festivals for the Khmer ethnic group in Vietnam. This vibrant celebration marks the start of a new year, blending religious rituals with joyful community gatherings.
What is Chol Chnam Thmay festival?
Chol Chnam Thmay, meaning “Enter New Year,” is the Khmer New Year festival celebrated by the Khmer ethnic group. This vibrant event marks the beginning of a new year, symbolizing renewal, blessings, and the importance of family togetherness. Deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, the festival blends religious rituals with joyous celebrations, reflecting gratitude for past blessings and hopes for prosperity in the year ahead.
When is Chol Chnam Thmay?
Chol Chnam Thmay is celebrated annually in mid-April, following the solar calendar rather than the lunar calendar. The exact dates may vary slightly each year but typically fall during the hottest days of the year. This timing aligns with the traditional harvest season, allowing the community to give thanks for a bountiful crop and usher in a prosperous new year.
A Regional event of the Mekong Delta
The festival is closely tied to Khmer communities in provinces like Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, and An Giang. These regions, home to a significant Khmer population, come alive during Chol Chnam Thmay with vibrant celebrations that reflect deep cultural roots. It’s a key event in the Mekong Delta, showcasing the Khmer’s rich traditions and community spirit.
Who are the Khmer ethnic people?
The Khmer ethnic group has a long history in southern Vietnam, with roots tracing back to the ancient Angkor civilization in Cambodia. Their presence in the Mekong Delta dates back centuries, predating Vietnamese expansion into the region. Preserving traditions like Chol Chnam Thmay is vital for maintaining their cultural identity and passing it on to future generations within the diverse context of Vietnam.
How do they celebrate Khmer New Year?
Traditional rituals: Cleaning and sand stupas
In preparation for the New Year, Khmer families thoroughly clean their homes and ancestral altars. A unique tradition involves building sand stupas at pagodas or riversides, symbolizing merit-making and spiritual cleansing.
Buddhist ceremonies: Monks and blessings
A central part of Chol Chnam Thmay is visiting pagodas to offer food to monks, light incense, and participate in prayers. These rituals invite blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness in the coming year.
Community activities: Games and music
The festival is a time for joyous gatherings, featuring traditional Khmer games, cultural performances, and music. Water fights, reminiscent of Songkran in Thailand, are a playful way to symbolize renewal and happiness.
Tips for travelers
Best places to experience
The most vibrant Chol Chnam Thmay celebrations take place in Tra Vinh and Soc Trang, home to large Khmer communities and stunning pagodas like Kh’leang Pagoda and Bat Pagoda.
Travel tips
- Book Early: Accommodations fill up quickly during the festival, so reserve your stay well in advance.
- Dress Respectfully: Opt for lightweight, modest clothing appropriate for temple visits, and avoid overly revealing outfits.
- Getting There: The Mekong Delta is a 4-6 hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City by car or bus. Consider booking a private car for convenience if traveling in a group.
Other unique festivals in the Mekong Delta
Ok Om Bok Festival
This moon worship festival celebrates gratitude for a bountiful harvest and features exciting events like the famous Ngo boat races. Read more about: Ok Om Bok Festival.
Bay Nui Ox Racing Festival
Held in An Giang province, this thrilling festival showcases traditional Khmer ox races, drawing large crowds of spectators. Read more about: Bay Nui Ox Racing Festival.
Ba Chua Xu Festival
A major pilgrimage event in Chau Doc, this festival honors the Lady of the Holy Land with vibrant rituals and ceremonies. Read more about: Ba Chua Xu Festival.
Tao Dan Spring Festival
Taking place during Tet, this festival in Can Tho features flower displays, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities. Read more about: Tao Dan Spring Festival.
