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Cambodia Independence Day 2026

Cambodia’s Independence Day is observed every year on 9 November, marking the day in 1953 when the Kingdom regained full sovereignty from France under King Norodom Sihanouk. It is one of Cambodia’s most important national holidays and a public day off across the whole country, including throughout Siem Reap province.

The grandest ceremonies take place in Phnom Penh, where a formal flag-raising and wreath-laying is held at the Independence Monument, followed by parades, marching bands and an evening fireworks display. Government buildings, boulevards and roundabouts are dressed in the blue-red-blue of the national flag.

In Siem Reap you’ll see the city decorated for the occasion — Cambodian flags lining the main roads and bridges, public buildings lit up after dark, and smaller civic flag-raising ceremonies held at provincial offices. It is a relaxed, patriotic atmosphere rather than a tourist spectacle, which makes it a genuine window into local life.

Plan for government offices, banks and some local businesses to close for the day, though hotels, restaurants and the Angkor temples operate as normal. Traffic around ceremonial sites can be heavier in the morning, so the evenings are the best time to wander and enjoy the illuminations.

Visitor tip: bring a camera for the flag displays and lit-up landmarks after sunset, and ask your hotel whether any local flag-raising or community events are planned nearby. These are free, open to everyone, and a real slice of Cambodian national pride.