What Is Second Day of the Cambodian New Year?
The Second Day of the Cambodian New Year, officially known as Vearak Vanabat (វារៈវ័នបត), is the middle day of the three-day Choul Chhnam Thmey festival. This annual observance is a significant cultural event in Cambodia, focusing on acts of devotion and respect within families and the community. It is a designated public holiday across the country, allowing for widespread participation in its customs.
Vearak Vanabat is primarily dedicated to acknowledging and honouring elders, including parents, grandparents, and teachers, for their contributions and guidance. It also involves community-wide practices of making offerings at pagodas, reinforcing communal bonds and traditional values. The day serves as a period for reflection and upholding generational respect within Cambodian society.
History and Origins of Second Day of the Cambodian New Year
The Cambodian New Year, Choul Chhnam Thmey, has ancient origins rooted in Cambodia’s agrarian past and Theravada Buddhist traditions. The timing of the festival historically aligns with the end of the harvest season, allowing farmers to rest and celebrate before the next planting cycle begins. Vearak Vanabat, as the second day, evolved to serve specific functions within this broader celebratory period.
Historically, this day formalised the tradition of gratitude towards those who provide wisdom and support. The practice of offering food and donations to monks and temples, central to Vearak Vanabat, reflects the deep-seated influence of Buddhism in Cambodian culture. These customs have been passed down through generations, maintaining their relevance in contemporary society as expressions of cultural identity and continuity.
How Second Day of the Cambodian New Year Is Celebrated
On Vearak Vanabat, Cambodian families observe specific traditions that reinforce community and familial bonds. A central practice involves paying respects to parents, grandparents, and other elders. This is often done through formal visits, special meals, and the offering of small gifts or symbolic gestures of gratitude, such as bowing in deference.
Many individuals and families visit local pagodas (wats) on Vearak Vanabat. Here, offerings of food, money, and other essentials are presented to the monks, a practice known as ‘bonn phka’. This act of merit-making is believed to bring positive outcomes. Additionally, sand mounds are often constructed in pagoda courtyards, sometimes adorned with five religious flags, symbolising the stupa where the Buddha’s hair and diadem are interred. This activity is believed to generate good fortune for the new year.
Traditional games and entertainment may also continue from the first day, although the second day often takes on a slightly more reflective and devotional tone. These activities contribute to the festive atmosphere while upholding the day’s core themes of respect and merit.
When Is Second Day of the Cambodian New Year?
The Second Day of the Cambodian New Year is not fixed on the Gregorian calendar but is determined by the Khmer lunar calendar. It typically falls in mid-April each year, often on 14th or 15th April. The entire Choul Chhnam Thmey festival spans three days, and Vearak Vanabat is consistently the second day of this three-day period.
The exact dates vary slightly annually due to the differences between the Khmer lunisolar calendar and the Gregorian solar calendar. The Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training officially announces the dates for the public holidays each year, ensuring clarity for observances across the country.
Second Day of the Cambodian New Year Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Holiday |
| Date | Variable (mid-April, determined by Khmer calendar) |
| Countries | 1 (Cambodia) |
| Also known as | Vearak Vanabat (វារៈវ័នបត) |
| Calendar system | Khmer Lunisolar Calendar |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Second Day of the Cambodian New Year called?
The Second Day of the Cambodian New Year is traditionally known as Vearak Vanabat. It is an integral part of the Choul Chhnam Thmey celebration, which lasts for three days in Cambodia.
What are the main activities on Vearak Vanabat?
On Vearak Vanabat, Cambodians primarily focus on showing respect to their elders, including parents, grandparents, and teachers. Many families also visit pagodas to make offerings to monks and honour their ancestors.
Is the Second Day of the Cambodian New Year a public holiday?
Yes, the Second Day of the Cambodian New Year, Vearak Vanabat, is observed as a public holiday throughout Cambodia. This allows individuals and families to participate fully in its traditional customs and observances.