Cambodia was a French protectorate for 90 years before it gained independence from France on November 9, 1953. Independence Day, which marks that event, is a national holiday. The principal celebrations are held in the capital city of Phnom Penh, beginning with a morning ceremony at Independence Monument on the crossroads of Norodom and Sihanouk Boulevards, usually with the King of Cambodia in attendance. Later in the day, there is a gala parade held in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, with colorful floats and marching bands. Shops are adorned with national flags. After dark, the Royal Palace and other important buildings and monuments are lit up. A large fireworks display is held near the riverbanks of the Royal Palace.

CONTACTS:
Royal Embassy of Cambodia
4530 16th St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20011
202-726-7742 or 202-726-8268; fax: 202-726-8381
www.embassyofcambodia.org
Tourism of Cambodia
262 Monivong Blvd.
Khan Daun Penh
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
www.tourismcambodia.com
(c)