AKP Phnom Penh, December 31, 2025 --

Despite ongoing tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border and a nationwide ban on fireworks for public safety, several cities and provinces are moving ahead with New Year’s Eve celebrations to welcome visitors and sustain local economic activity.

In Phnom Penh, the capital is set to transform its riverfront into a festive hub over three days. From Dec. 31, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026, the “Chaktomuk Walk Street” will feature stalls showcasing local products and food, along with a mix of traditional and contemporary art performances.

“The opening of the ‘Walk Street’ aims to promote tourism as the world celebrates the arrival of the New Year 2026,” said Mrs. Dor Samphos, Spokesperson for the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration.

Siem Reap province, one of Cambodia’s leading tourist destinations, is also organising New Year’s Eve activities. Although the celebrations will be more modest compared to previous years, tourists can still visit attractions as usual, with the provincial administration aiming to stimulate local economic activity through tourism, officials said on Wednesday.

In recent years, Phnom Penh and the provinces of Preah Sihanouk, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampot have consistently ranked among the country’s top destinations during New Year’s Eve celebrations, drawing large numbers of domestic travellers.

According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia welcomed a total of 3.53 million tourists during the final two days of 2024, Dec. 30-31, including approximately 3.49 million domestic tourists and nearly 50,000 international visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism is continuing efforts to promote Cambodia as a safe and welcoming destination, encouraging both local stakeholders and international partners to counter negative perceptions linked to border tensions.

As part of these efforts, the ministry has launched a nationwide campaign to reassure international markets that Cambodia’s major tourist hubs – including Siem Reap province, home to the Angkor Archaeological Park – remain peaceful, safe, and fully operational.

By Chea Vannak