On June 18, 2025, Cambodia honours the 89th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk—a cherished national figure whose grace, philanthropy, and presence continue to inspire generations.
This public holiday brings Cambodians together through royal tributes, temple prayers, dazzling fireworks, and cultural festivities, all deeply rooted in the country’s tradition of gratitude toward the monarchy.
| 🗓️ Date | June 18, 2025 (Wednesday) |
| 🎉 Occasion | Birthday of Queen Mother Norodom Monineath |
| 📍 Celebrations | Fireworks, temple visits, and cultural shows |
| 🎁 Charitable Acts | Donations, volunteering, and community drives |
| 🛑 Public Holiday | Nationwide – schools and offices closed |
Who is the Queen Mother of Cambodia?
Born on June 18, 1936, in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), Queen Mother Norodom Monineath was the devoted consort of the late King Norodom Sihanouk and mother of the current monarch, King Norodom Sihamoni. Throughout her life, she has played a key role in Cambodia’s humanitarian efforts:
- Patron of the Cambodian Red Cross
- Advocate for education, social welfare, and women’s rights.
- A symbol of continuity, dignity, and compassion in the nation
How Cambodians Are Celebrating in 2025
🎇 Royal Fireworks at Phnom Penh
In keeping with recent years, a grand fireworks display will illuminate the sky over the Royal Palace at 7:00 PM. The spectacular light show is one of the capital’s most awaited moments and a public favourite.
🛕 Temple Visits and Religious Blessings
People across Cambodia visit Buddhist temples to pray for Her Majesty’s long life and well-being. Monks lead special chanting sessions, and blessings are offered at pagodas throughout the country.
🎭 Cultural Performances and Art Shows
Public spaces—especially from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, host concerts, traditional dance shows, and exhibitions celebrating Khmer heritage. Educational exhibits honouring the Queen Mother’s life and contributions are displayed near the Royal Palace and cultural centres.
🎁 Community and Charitable Events
The holiday is also marked as an act of service and charity. Inspired by the Queen Mother’s decades of humanitarian work, many NGOs and citizen groups organise blood donation drives, fundraisers, and community clean-up events.
👨👩👧👦 A Day of Togetherness and Family
Beyond official ceremonies, this day has become a symbol of family unity and national pride. Parks, shopping centres, and riverside walks buzz with people enjoying time with loved ones. Restaurants offer special discounts, and street vendors serve local delicacies throughout the day.
🚌Tips for Bus Travel During the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations
Travelling during this holiday via bus? Here’s what to know:
- Book Bus tickets in Advance: Buses to Phnom Penh and major towns fill up quickly, so opt for advance booking. Use a trusted bus booking platform like redBus to book intercity travel conveniently online.
- Choose the Right Operators: Opt for reputable bus operators known for their safety and comfort. Researching and reading reviews can help you make an informed decision. redBus has all the famous operators of Cambodia listed on the site, such as Virak Buntham, VET Airbus, Giant Ibis, Larryta Express, Vibol Express Bus, Go Ho Travel, Seila Angkor Khmer Express, etc.
- Pack Smart Essentials: Bring snacks, water, medications, a power bank, and entertainment options (music, books). Onboard amenities may be limited for some bus operators.
- Check and pack your belongings: To deter theft, pack valuables in a money belt or locked inner bag, especially during crowded holiday conditions.
- Anticipate Delays & Traffic: Roadworks or festival-related detours can delay trips—build buffer time into your schedule, especially if connecting to flights or tours.
- Prepare for Cross-Border Travel: If travelling internationally (e.g., Vietnam–Cambodia), have visas, passports, and proof of holiday closure date ready at border posts—processing may be slower than usual.
- Have Cash Ready: Transactions usually happen in cash; keep USD or Cambodian riel ready.
- Choose Comfort or Economy Based on Duration: For longer routes (e.g., Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with travel duration of more than 6 hours), consider VIP or luxury buses with more legroom, fewer stops, and onboard comforts.
Conclusion
Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk’s Birthday celebrates Cambodian heritage, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Queen Mother. As the country comes alive with festivities, travelling by bus offers a unique and enriching way to explore and participate in this national holiday. Embrace the journey, witness the vibrant traditions, and create lasting memories as you traverse the beautiful landscapes of Cambodia during this special time.
