The 2026 Giant Puppet Street Parade is scheduled for February 21, 2026. The theme for 2026 is “Wildlife of Cambodia – The Wild Parade”. Mark your calendars and witness this enchanting display of artistry and community bonding. Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia.
- Date: 21 February 2026
- Start time: 6:30pm (estimated)
- Starting point: Wat Damnak
- Ending point: Royal Gardens
- Stage with more entertainment
The Giant Puppet Project is a community arts event held in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It was created to bring children, artists, and communities together through creativity, storytelling, and cultural expression. The project allows children to design and build large puppets that represent Cambodian identity, history, dreams, and social messages.
History
The Giant Puppet Project began in 2007 in Siem Reap. It was started by a group of artists and educators who wanted to give children a chance to express themselves through art. Many children who joined the project came from local schools and NGOs.
Each year, workshops are organized where children learn to create giant puppets using bamboo, paper, and fabric. These puppets are later shown in a public parade in Siem Reap, usually in the evening, attracting both locals and tourists.
The project helps children gain confidence, teamwork skills, and creative thinking while also preserving Cambodian storytelling traditions.
Purpose
- Encourage creativity and artistic skills among Cambodian children
- Provide a positive learning activity for youth
- Promote community cooperation
- Support cultural tourism in Siem Reap
- Attract tourists to Siem Reap
- Share stories about Cambodian life, environment, and society
When It Happens
The Giant Puppet Parade is usually held once a year in Siem Reap.
It often takes place around February and is presented as a night parade through the city.
Why It Is Important
- It connects art with education
- It supports child development
- It creates a unique cultural event for visitors
- It helps promote Siem Reap as a creative and cultural destination
