Happy Pchum Ben

October 31, 2013 by DickH Posted in Culture 2 Comments

Today may be Halloween, but it is also a big holiday for our Cambodian neighbors. Pchum Ben is a month-long festival in October that culminates on the final day of the month. It is a tradition that comes from both Buddhism and animism and it allows people to respect and remember their ancestors. A major component of the celebration are flavored balls of rice which are shared, especially with Buddhist monks. At least that’s my elementary understanding of Pchum Ben. For a more detailed explanation, check out this article in the Phnom Penh Post.

2 Responses to Happy Pchum Ben

  1. John Quealey says:

    We had cider, dunked for apples,tried to take a bite of an apple that was hanging from the door on the end of a string at home parties.We walked around the Grove and the first treets I recall were offered to us from from Mrs.Sweeney mother-in-law of “The Blogger.”

  2. Sambath says:

    thank you for writing this and acknowledging our culture and tradition. its always good to see positive press on our community.