The Giants of Siem Reap
A night-time parade of giant puppets lights up the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia every year.
This event is considered the largest community-based arts project for children and adults in Southeast Asia.
Its aim is to promote Khmer culture, the arts, tourism, nature, and environmental awareness.
The puppets are made by hundreds of children, with the support of artists and educators.
Local NGOs actively participate in the project, which encourages teamwork and provides underprivileged children with access to the arts.
The parade is connected to the renowned Cambodian visual and circus arts school Phare Ponleu Selpak (“The Light of the Arts” in Khmer).
The event has been taking place since 2007. The 2026 edition highlights Cambodian wildlife, endangered and rare species, and environmental conservation challenges.
The parade has become a cultural symbol of Siem Reap, where children are the true creators of the artworks.
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