Cambodia & Community: A Look Back at Bastille Day Celebrations in Siem Reap
- Editorial team
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
On 12 July 2026, in Siem Reap, France's national holiday was celebrated at an evening event organised by CCIFC Siem Reap at Artisans Angkor.
To mark Bastille Day, the France-Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFC) Siem Reap section brought together the French and local communities for a convivial evening, hosted at Artisans Angkor's Living Arts Museum. The evening was held under the patronage of His Excellency Mr Olivier Richard, Ambassador of France to Cambodia, and His Excellency Mr Linne Yun, Deputy Governor of Siem Reap, in the presence of numerous distinguished guests, including Florian Bohême, elected representative for French citizens abroad, and the CCIFC Siem Reap team, which organised the event. Held under the banner of Franco-Khmer friendship, culture and sharing, the gathering brought together the French and local communities of the region. Long established around Angkor, Siem Reap's French community meets every year for Bastille Day, a highlight of its social and community life.
A Mobilised Business Community
The event drew support from many players in Siem Reap's business community, including Abacus Restaurant, Café Indochine, Elia Greek Kitchen, La Ferme de Bassac and Bayon Coffee Shop.
Bayon Coffee Shop hosted a cookie-decorating workshop in the colours of France, giving participants of all ages the chance to share a creative and delicious moment. The team was also on hand with a pastry stand, giving visitors a chance to discover its handmade creations as well as the work carried out by Bayon Coffee Shop. Through its activities, the establishment helps fund part of the professional bakery and pastry training of young women from disadvantaged backgrounds, allowing them to build their skills, shape their professional future and quickly access dignified, sustainable employment.
Beyond the official proceedings, the evening was an opportunity for the French and local communities to reconnect, in the spirit of sharing and cultural discovery that traditionally marks Bastille Day celebrations abroad. Free of charge and held indoors at Artisans Angkor, the event drew a large crowd for an evening of festivities and treats, punctuated by hands-on introductions to Khmer craftsmanship, including stone carving.
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