Long Beach celebrates Cambodian New Year with vibrant cultural events and community unity

The Long Beach City Council meeting on April 15, 2025, kicked off with a vibrant celebration of Cambodian New Year, highlighting the cultural significance of this important event. Councilmember Suely Saro led the presentation, emphasizing the New Year as a time of renewal, reflection, and gratitude for the Cambodian community. The festivities, which began on April 14 and run through April 16, are not only a celebration of Cambodian heritage but also recognize the broader Southeast Asian cultures that partake in similar traditions.

Saro passionately described the rituals associated with the New Year, including the symbolic act of sprinkling water on family members as a gesture of respect and blessings for the year ahead. She noted the importance of these celebrations, especially in light of the historical challenges faced by the Cambodian community, including the devastating genocide that nearly erased their cultural practices.

The meeting also acknowledged the upcoming 50th anniversary of the genocide on April 17, a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Cambodian people in preserving their identity through arts, culture, and community events. Saro highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Cambodian American Cultural Center and the success of the recent Long Beach Synchron festival, which brought together thousands of attendees to celebrate this rich heritage.

Sam Limon, interim chair of the Cambodian American Cultural Center, shared insights into the festival's success and the importance of community support. He expressed gratitude to local officials for their presence and encouragement, reinforcing the value of unity and cultural pride within the community.

As the meeting progressed, the council members and attendees were invited to embrace the spirit of the New Year, fostering understanding and solidarity among diverse communities in Long Beach. The celebration of Cambodian New Year not only honors the past but also strengthens the bonds that define the city's multicultural identity.