As in almost everywhere else in the world, Christmas is as an important religious festival in Cambodia. Though Phnom Penh has only a few Christians; most of them being expatriates and tourists Christmas is a religious celebration that transcends all ethnic and cultural boundaries. The Christmas season brings with it a feeling of hope and good cheer, coupled with the fact that the year is drawing to a close; there is a feeling of optimism and hope of better things to come in the New Year.

Gift giving is an integral part of Christmas in Cambodia, like it would be everywhere else. People give thoughtfully picked out Christmas gifts to their families and loved ones. At this time of year gifts are ways of telling them that you appreciate their role in your life and that they are loved. Shopping malls and stores across Phnom Penh get into the seasonal mood by offering great discounts and seasonal sales; be warned however that the malls are jam packed at this time of the year.

However, the first signs of Christmas are found in the colorful decorations around Phnom Penh, in particular shopping malls and store fronts. Almost the entirety of Phnom Penh is gaily decorated with colorful fairy lights and fresh flowers in full bloom.

Special Christmas dinners can be enjoyed at a Phnom Penh hotel, with traditional Christmas delicacies such as Christmas pudding, minced pies and roast turkey. Dances and other Christmas parties are also organized at many a luxury hotel in Phnom Penh and lets you spend an unforgettable Christmas in Cambodia with your loved ones.