The Maha Sangkran procession at Khmer pagoda Sro Lôn in My Xuyen district, Soc Trang province (Photo: VNA)

The most important activity on the first day of the New Year is the Maha Sangkran procession. People, dressed in their finest clothes, carry offerings to the pagoda and pray for blessings and peace. They exchange warm wishes for a new year with favorable weather, bountiful harvests, and a peaceful, happy life.

The festive atmosphere pervades every village. Khmer communities organize boat races, volleyball tournaments, and bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake) wrapping and five-fruit tray decorating competitions.

The central and local authorities organize visits to congratulate Buddhist monks and deliver gifts to families in difficult circumstances. Thach Phan, a resident of Tra Vinh province, said,“In recent years, there have been many incentive policies for the Khmer people. Government programs to eliminate temporary shelters have benefitted many disadvantaged households. We’re happy because our standard of living is steadily improving.”

Deputy Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Nguyen Hai Trung (Photo: baodantoc.vn)

Deputy Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Nguyen Hai Trung said, “Welcoming Chol Chnam Thmay 2025, we hope the Khmer people and Buddhist monks will continue to uphold their patriotism, promote the strength of national solidarity, and study and work hard to build prosperous and happy lives. The Khmer community stay united with the rest of the nation to achieve all economic and social development goals and contribute to building a richer and more beautiful country.”

Chol Chnam Thmay is the most anticipated festival of the year for the Khmer people. It is not only a time for family reunions and celebration but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and the determination to develop a better life.