Cambodian Independence Day

When is Cambodian Independence Day?

This national holiday is celebrated from 13 May to 15 May each year. The dates may vary if one or more of the three days fall on a weekend. The holiday was established to celebrate the Royal Birthday of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Baromneath Norodom Sihamoni, the King of the Kingdom of Cambodia

History of Cambodian King's Birthday

HM King Norodom Sihamoni is the son of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, Preahmahaviraksat. He was born on 14 May 1953 in Phnom Penh Capital.

His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni has been the sovereign of Cambodia since 29 October 2004.

He was made king after being chosen by a nine-member throne council to become the next king after his father Norodom Sihanouk abdicated in 2004 due to ill health.

Even though King Norodom Sihamoni's father was King, the King of Cambodia is an elected monarch, making Cambodia one of the few elected monarchies of the world.

The King is elected for life and is chosen by the Royal Council of the Throne. The only stipulations are that the candidates must be part of the royal family and at least 30 years old.

Did you know?

King Norodom Sihamoni is the only ruling monarch who speaks Czech

How is Cambodian King's Birthday Celebrated?

To mark the holiday, the King makes offerings to monks and those less fortunate in society. Many government buildings are covered in lights and pictures of the King, while people will fly the flag of Cambodia from their houses. Celebrations take place inside the Royal Palace with a fireworks display on the nearby Tonlé Sap river.

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