The entrance fee for the Angkor Archaeological Park

The eagerly awaited “Smile of Cambodia” event will return to Angkor Wat on October 29-30, as part of the Visit Siem Reap 2024 initiative.

This annual celebration honors Khmer heritage through captivating performances, vibrant exhibitions, and culinary experiences, drawing both local and international visitors. The event aims to reinvigorate post-pandemic tourism while showcasing the country’s cultural wealth.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, with the support of the Khmer Artists Association (KAA) and other key partners, it serves as a homage to Khmer art and culture.

Seth Kimsoeun, advisor to the KAA, explained that this year’s event is spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, which is acting as the primary organizer, producer, and manager, in collaboration with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia [UYFC] in Siem Reap.

The festival promises a spectacular celebration with over 500 artists bringing to life the grandeur of the Angkorian Empire, particularly focusing on the royal deeds of King Jayavarman VII.

Opening with a formal ceremony at 7:30am on October 29, the event will include a full day of traditional Khmer performances, exhibitions, and a majestic parade honoring the past kings of the Khmer Empire, all set against the iconic backdrop of Angkor Wat.

Attendees will be treated to live reenactments depicting key moments from Cambodia’s ancient history, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural legacy.

In addition to the performances, visitors can explore exhibitions showcasing Khmer cuisine, traditional attire, and art. These exhibitions aim to preserve ancient artistic traditions while creating a lively, festive atmosphere. A special feature of the celebration will be the Ting Mong tournament, a traditional puppet performance unique to Cambodia.

A major attraction of the event is the focus on Khmer cuisine. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy a variety of authentic Cambodian dishes, with international guests wearing traditional Khmer attire receiving complimentary food as a gesture of hospitality.

The event will also feature influencers and content creators who will help promote Cambodian heritage on social media, broadening awareness of the country’s rich cultural offerings.

As part of broader efforts to revive tourism in Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat temple, the “Smile of Cambodia” plays a crucial role in promoting cultural tourism.

Seth Kimsoeun noted that the event highlights two major activities: performances by more than 500 artists celebrating the Angkorian Empire, and the “Smile of Cambodia” program, which showcases Khmer arts, food, fashion, and culture, all while creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The event aims to draw international attention to Cambodia’s cultural tourism sites and help boost tourism through the end of 2024 and beyond into 2025.

Running from 9am to 6pm on both days, the event promises an entire day of dynamic cultural experiences against the magnificent backdrop of Angkor Wat.

For visitors, the festivities offer a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Khmer art, culture, and cuisine, while contributing to the revival of Cambodia’s tourism industry.

The event is expected to provide an unforgettable blend of ancient history and modern cultural celebration, all in one exceptional experience.

Discover the enchanting wonders of ancient Cambodia with the Banteay Srei & Boeng Mealea Tour. This captivating journey takes you through two of the region’s most iconic and visually stunning temples, offering a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the Khmer Empire.

Banteay Srei

Begin your tour with a visit to Banteay Srei, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women” or the “Citadel of Beauty.” This 10th-century temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone construction, which give it a unique and ethereal appearance. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Banteay Srei is celebrated for its exceptionally detailed bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple’s smaller scale allows for an intimate exploration of its exquisite artwork and well-preserved structures.

Boeng Mealea

Next, venture to Boeng Mealea, a hidden gem often described as the “Lost Temple.” This 12th-century temple, enveloped by lush jungle, offers a sense of adventure and mystery. Unlike many other temples in the region, Boeng Mealea has not been extensively restored, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty of an ancient ruin reclaimed by nature. Wander through the sprawling ruins, navigate the maze-like corridors, and marvel at the towering trees intertwining with the stone structures.

The Sea Festival 2024, marking its 11th edition, will take place in Kampot province from December 13 to 15. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Heritage and Coastal Sustainability,” reflects the festival’s focus on honoring the region’s rich maritime traditions while highlighting the importance of preserving coastal environments. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant array of activities that celebrate both cultural heritage and sustainable practices.

Organized by a coalition including the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and the Provincial Administration of Kampot, the festival is supported by various institutions and private sector partners. This collaboration underscores a unified commitment to showcasing Cambodia’s maritime heritage and promoting coastal sustainability.

A significant highlight of the event will be the official Opening Ceremony on December 14, presided over by Prime Minister Hun Manet and First Lady Pich Chanmony. Their participation emphasizes the festival’s role in fostering national pride and cultural heritage while reinforcing the commitment to environmental stewardship.

The festival promises an exciting lineup of activities, including live concerts featuring local and international artists, vibrant performances, and spectacular fireworks displays. Visitors can also participate in sports competitions, explore exhibitions showcasing tourism and local products, and indulge in a variety of food and beverage offerings. These events aim to provide a comprehensive experience of Cambodia’s coastal culture and attractions.

Since its inception in 2011, the Sea Festival has been held in rotation across Cambodia’s four coastal provinces: Preah Sihanouk, Kep, Koh Kong, and Kampot. The festival aims to highlight the tourism potential of these regions while fostering collaboration among the private sector, public entities, and various stakeholders, ultimately encouraging efforts to protect and preserve marine resources and beach environments.

With a coastline spanning approximately 450 kilometers across these provinces, Cambodia boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse marine ecosystems. The country’s dedication to its coastal areas was further recognized when it joined the Most Beautiful Bays in the World (World-Bays Club) in mid-2011.

The Sea Festival 2024 aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia’s coastal regions while promoting sustainable tourism practices. By blending cultural festivities with environmental awareness, the festival seeks to enhance public understanding and involvement in preserving these vital natural resources.

This year’s event in Kampot promises to be a memorable celebration, combining entertainment, culture, and sustainability to highlight the beauty and significance of Cambodia’s coastal regions