Bon Om Touk, the Water Festival, marks the reversal of the Tonle Sap — the point each year when the river stops draining into the Mekong and starts flowing back out of the lake. In 2026 it falls on 23–25 November, and it is a public holiday nationwide.
What happens
Longboat crews from every province race on the river in front of the Royal Palace, watched by crowds that run several deep along Sisowath Quay. In the evenings there are illuminated floats, fireworks and food stalls the length of the riverside.
Practical notes
Book early. Hotels along the river fill months ahead and prices rise sharply. If you are coming in from elsewhere, book transport well in advance too — buses and taxis are heavily booked in both directions.
Expect crowds. The riverside is closed to traffic and extremely busy. Agree tuk-tuk fares before you set off, keep valuables close, and pick a meeting point with anyone you are with, because phone signal struggles under that many people.
Getting a view. The stretch north of the Royal Palace is the busiest. Riverside restaurants with upper floors take bookings for the race days and are worth it if you would rather watch sitting down.