Brief History of Bon Om Tuk

In Cambodian (Khmer) Bon Om Tuk literally means the festival of boat races. It has a long interwoven history and connection with religious legends and Cambodian navy practices as part of military preparedness for invasions from her neighboring countries. It was held annually at the Chaktomuk River in front of the Royal Palace in the Capital City of Cambodia, Phnom Pehn.

Long after, civilians picked up this tradition and converted it into a well-known, favorite competitive sport, i.e., Pranang Tuk or boat races that drew thousands of spectators from across the country. They celebrate this event annually from late October until early of November when the water revolves from Tunlae Sap river and levels off.

There are a bunch of activities happening at the same time beside boat races, namely Awk Ambok (eating flatten sticky rice with coconut juice and banana), Sampeah Preah Khae (worshiping the moon), and Bandaet Pratip (floating the lights). Having done the 2nd part of the event make Cambodians feel that they had kept the promise to give thanks to the mother earth, especially the Mekong river that brought plenty of water and fertile soil to their fields. Moreover, since the majority of Cambodians are Buddhists, they made a connection between Buddhist legends to the 2nd part of the event.

Similar festivals are seen celebrated in Cambodia's neighboring countries, such as Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, ...

SPECIAL THANKS .....

With permission from Mr. Daran Kravanh, president of CASNET, I'm sharing the pictures from the 2005 Asian American Water festival held at Thea's park Tacoma Washington. These pictures from the 2005 Water Festival is a reflection of the hardwork of all the volunteers who willingly contributed in time and donations to make this event a success. On top of the volunteers, this event would be difficult without the kindness and generosity of all the sponsors and donors alike.

This yearly event brought unity among the many cultures by promoting friendship and respect among the rich Asian cultures in the great state of Washington. Great Job CASNET for your commitment and contributions to a better community, to a better society here in America.