Steung Market: A Riverside Water Festival Experience in Siem Reap
- Emma Ji
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Every November, Cambodia bursts to life with one of its most joyful celebrations: the Water Festival, or Bon Om Touk. It’s a time when the Tonlé Sap River reverses its flow — a rare natural event caused by the Mekong’s swollen waters at the end of the rainy season. For Cambodians, this isn’t just a river changing direction; it’s a moment to give thanks, celebrate the season, and come together as a community.
The Traditional Water Festival Cambodia
In the past, riversides in Phnom Penh would be packed with excitement. People from all over the country would gather to watch:
Long boat races, with beautifully decorated boats representing different provinces.
Evening illuminated boat parades, where boats glow with colorful lights as they drift along the river.
Cultural rituals and traditional foods, like Ambok—flattened rice with banana or coconut—shared among families and friends.
It’s a festival full of energy, color, and a deep sense of connection to Cambodia’s rivers and heritage.
2025 Update: A New Twist
This year, due to national concerns, the main Water Festival in Phnom Penh has been cancelled. But the festival’s spirit is far from lost. Across Cambodia, provinces are finding creative ways to celebrate — and Siem Reap has emerged as a vibrant alternative.
📷: Van Dela
Introducing the Steung Siem Reap Festival, a fresh take on the traditional Water Festival that combines local culture, riverside fun, and community spirit. This year, the festival will take place on November 4th, 5th, and 6th, offering visitors a chance to enjoy boat rides, friendship races, lively markets, and cultural performances along the beautiful Steung River.
What to Expect A Riverside Water Festival Experience in Siem Reap ?
Instead of massive national boat races, Siem Reap’s celebration focuses on intimate, enjoyable experiences along the Steung Siem Reap River:
Leisure Boat Rides: Cruise along the river while taking in the sights, sounds, and festive atmosphere.
Friendship Boat Races: Local teams compete in friendly races, creating excitement without the high-stakes pressure of national competition.
Steung Market & Fair: Explore stalls filled with local crafts, street food, and handmade souvenirs — a perfect way to experience authentic Cambodian life.
Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional dance, music, and evening entertainment along the riverside.
This festival keeps the essence of Bon Om Touk alive while offering something new, personal, and community-focused.
Why Visit the Steung Market Festival in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap this festival season is the perfect place to:
Experience the Water Festival spirit without the overwhelming crowds of Phnom Penh.
Discover local markets, food, and crafts in a relaxed riverside setting.
Join river activities that are fun for both families and friends.
Witness how tradition and community come together in a modern, creative way.
Even though Phnom Penh won’t host its usual grand celebration, Cambodia’s Water Festival spirit continues to flow — and Siem Reap’s Steung River Festival is proof of that.
From leisurely boat rides to lively markets and cultural performances, it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and the enduring joy of Khmer traditions.
So this November, head to Siem Reap, soak in the festive atmosphere, and enjoy the new face of Bon Om Touk along the beautiful Steung River. See you there!
A Riverside Water Festival Experience in Siem Reap
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