Pchum Ben

This Cambodian ritual, also known as the "Festival of the Dead" or the "Hungry Ghosts Festival," honors seven generations of ancestors with food offerings at pagodas (shrines). Cambodian Buddhists believe that their ancestors' souls are liberated for 15 days every year.

Pchum Ben is one of the most famous festivals in Cambodia, usually held in September or October. Expect prices to rise around this time, and establishments will close for the duration of the festival.

It's been compared to the Cambodian version of Halloween. According to legend, ghosts return to the earth on this day, and food must be served to them. Pchum Ben represents the beginning of a soul's trip to purgatory, a realm that is neither paradise nor hell. Their karma and the offerings made by their living family during Pchum Ben will determine the course of their journey. This event takes place at the conclusion of Buddhist Lent. Food is cooked for the monks during this time in order to generate virtues for the dead.

Date: 15th day of the 10th Khmer month