Cambodia Independence Day for the year 2024 is celebrated/observed on Wednesday, November 9th. There are until the next observance.

Every year on November 9, Cambodians commemorate their independence. This day is notable because it marks the independence of Cambodia from France on November 9, 1953. Cambodians observe this day in various sections of the nation. The Independence Monument, located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, is the primary location for the ceremony’s formal ceremonies. Every year on this day, a high-ranking official lights a ceremonial flame inside the Independence Monument, and others lay floral tributes on the monument’s stairs.

📆 When is Cambodia Independence Day?

This year, Cambodia Independence Day is on November 9th. It is the 2nd Wednesday in November; in 2023, it is on Thursday.

Countdown to Cambodia Independence Day

Did you know: The Cambodian flag is the only one in the world that features a building!

You can also view all fascinating things you didn’t know about and facts about November 9, 2022.

📜 History of Cambodia Independence Day

During World War II, the Japanese attacked and conquered Cambodia. Cambodian King Norodom Sihanouk declared Cambodia an independent kingdom on March 9, 1945, following a formal request from Japanese soldiers. The Japanese government, too, supported Cambodia’s independence and withdrew its soldiers.

The French, on the other hand, had not granted Cambodia full independence. Cambodia was given self-rule inside the French Union in 1946. Cambodia’s treaty-established protectorate status was revoked by the French in 1949. In 1949, the French abolished Cambodia’s protectorate status, which had been created under the treaty. By June 1952, King Sihanouk of Cambodia had decided to start working for Cambodia’s official independence. He did this by getting rid of his cabinet, putting the constitution on hold, and becoming prime minister.

King Sihanouk travelled to France in March 1953 to urge the French to grant Cambodia total independence. His effort was successful, as the French government proclaimed on July 3, 1953, that it was ready to grant Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos total independence. The military, police, international and trade relations, the judicial system, and the country’s finances were all regained by King Sihanouk. The French gave over control of the Cambodian police and military. As a result, King Sihanouk became a national hero, and his independence struggle is remembered every year on Independence Day. He was dubbed “the Father of Independence.”

☑️ Cambodia Independence Day facts

Cambodian New Year is celebrated in April
The Cambodian New Year, or Choul Chnam Thmey, is celebrated in April each year and also marks the conclusion of the agricultural season.

Geckos are considered to bring good luck
Cambodians think that seven or more gecko chirps spell good luck for one’s future marriage prospects.

Cambodians eat different kinds of insects
Cambodians prepare a variety of insects, including crickets, ants, and even tarantulas.

Things to do on Cambodia Independence Day

Brush up on your history
Are you unfamiliar with Cambodia? Now is the time to get some history books and learn more about this lovely country.

Plan a trip to Cambodia
Cambodia has many beautiful scenes. Plan your next vacation to Cambodia and explore the top tourist attractions.

Visit a local museum
If you are a Cambodian native, visit a neighboring museum to learn more about your country’s rich history. There is always something new to learn.

📅 Cambodia Independence Day Observances

YEAR DATE DAY
2023 November 9 Thursday
2024 November 9 Saturday
2025 November 9 Sunday
2026 November 9 Monday
2027 November 9 Tuesday

See all November holidays, including Federal and other Civic holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Cambodia Independence Day. So be sure to check back soon.