Thousands of Cambodians gather at the royal gardens each May to celebrate the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, which kicks off the rice planting season and is one of Cambodia’s oldest and most sacred celebrations (and one of the most interesting!), combining elements of Buddhism with Hinduism & animism. 

The holiday is steeped in tradition, and also has some fun (and mystical) elements. A representative of the King plows a ceremonial field with a pair of oxen to open the celebration, with a Queen’s rep sowing seeds. 

But the real fun begins when the royal oxen make their predictions. The pair of sacred bovines are offered bowls of rice, corn, beans, sesame seeds, water, grass, and alcohol, and their choice will determine the years’ bounty. Tension mounts–what will the year hold? 

If they choose rice, corn, beans, or sesame seeds, a good omen is expected, predicting a year of bountiful harvest. 

However, if the oxen prefer the grass, this means poor yields and pest problems for the year. Worse yet, if the oxen choose water or alcohol, the year may be impacted by flooding. Much hangs in the balance!

Agriculture: The backbone of Cambodia  

The majority of Cambodians still rely on the agricultural industry for their health and wealth, making agriculture a mark of national identity. Events and traditions like the Royal Ploughing Ceremony hold more truth and faith than a simple choice of an ox. 

Rice is the most sacred crop in Cambodian culture, symbolizing life, prosperity, and spirituality. Rice is prevalent in the country’s rituals, celebrations, and meals. 

Beyond farming, the agriculture industry and events like the Royal Ploughing Ceremony reflect the country’s belief that Mother Earth's output is divinely impacted and deserves to be respected and cared for by its people. 

The oxen’s prediction for 2025

To Cambodia's happiness and maybe relief, the oxen of 2025 chose rice, corn, and beans as their preferred crops during the ceremony–suggesting a great year ahead! 

This year, the ceremony occurred at Preah Sre Field, where an exhibition of the country’s agricultural products and crafts was held. 

With a bountiful harvest predicted, the country celebrated the year ahead, the years past, and the cultural importance of agriculture and the earth. 

Are you interested in immersing yourself in Cambodia’s rich culture and traditions? Give us a call, and we’ll help you plan your trip!