The highly anticipated second “Smile of Cambodia” event is set to light up Angkor Wat from October 29-30 as part of the Visit Siem Reap 2024 campaign. 

The annual celebration showcases Khmer heritage through performances, exhibitions and culinary experiences, drawing both local and international visitors. 

A key aim of the event is to boost post-pandemic tourism while promoting Cambodia’s cultural richness.

Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, with support from the Khmer Artists Association (KAA) and several key partners, the event is a tribute to Khmer art and culture. 

KAA advisor Seth Kimsoeun explained, "For this second 'Smile of Cambodia' event, the culture ministry is serving as the organiser, producer and manager. However, the association is collaborating with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia [UYFC] in Siem Reap province."

"The event is being held to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” Kimsoeun told The Post.

Khmer Artists Association (KAA) president Mao Chamnan (centre) and other artists from the association. Supplied

The celebration will be a grand spectacle with more than 500 artists participating in performances that celebrate the glory of the Angkorian Empire, specifically focusing on the royal activities of Jayavarman VII.

The event will begin with an official opening ceremony at 7:30am on October 29, followed by a full day of traditional Khmer art performances, exhibitions and a majestic parade honouring former kings of the Khmer Empire, held in front of the iconic Angkor Wat. 

Visitors will be treated to live performances that re-enact scenes from the ancient empire’s history, offering a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural past.

Guests can also explore exhibitions showcasing Khmer foods, traditional clothing and works of art. 

These exhibitions aim to preserve and promote the ancient arts, while adding a joyful atmosphere to the event. A highlight of the festivities will be the Ting Mong tournament, a traditional puppet performance unique to Cambodian culture.

Men Sam An (centre left), a member of the Supreme Privy Council to the King and Khmer Artists Association (KAA) president Mao Chamnan (centre right) at the opening ceremony of the first Smile of Cambodia event, held in August 2024. Supplied

A major highlight of the event is the celebration of Khmer cuisine. Visitors will have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of traditional Cambodian dishes. 

Foreign guests who attend the event wearing traditional Khmer attire will be offered free food as part of the hospitality extended to international visitors.

The event also engages influencers and content creators who will use social media platforms to raise awareness of Cambodian heritage. 

The celebration is part of a broader effort to revitalise tourism in Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat temple complex.

As Cambodia looks to rebuild its tourism industry, Smile of Cambodia plays a crucial role in promoting cultural tourism. 

Tourists visit food stands at the first Smile of Cambodia event in August. STPM

"The event focuses on two main activities: performances by more than 500 artists celebrating the Angkorian Empire and the Smile of Cambodia programme, which highlights Khmer arts, culture, food and clothing. It creates a happy atmosphere for tourists while promoting our cultural tourism sites," said Kimsoeun.

"It aims to promote Cambodia's natural cultural tourism sites to foreigners, as well as to boost tourism through the end of 2024 and into 2025," he added.

Running from 9am to 6pm on both days, the event promises a full day of vibrant cultural experiences set against the majestic backdrop of Angkor Wat. 

It offers a rare opportunity for locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the best of Khmer art, culture and cuisine, while contributing to the revival of the country’s tourism industry.

For those attending, the festivities at Angkor Wat will provide an unforgettable experience, blending the ancient grandeur of the Khmer Empire with contemporary cultural celebrations, all in one extraordinary event.

Khmer Artists Association (KAA) president Mao Chamnan (left) and a movie star at the opening ceremony of the first Smile of Cambodia event, held from August 12-16. Supplied

Local produce on display during the first Smile of Cambodia event at Angkor Wat in August. Supplied