身在异乡，心系高棉：肯特市的柬埔寨新年庆典

**Far From Home, Still Khmer: New Year Spirit Thrives in Kent City KENT, Washington — It may be smaller and a little colder than the pagodas back in Cambodia, but when Khmer New Year arrives, the energy in Kent feels instantly familiar. Step inside, and you can feel it. The garden is lined with statues of spiritual and historical figures, while bright religious flags ripple in the breeze. Inside, the kitchen fills up fast—shoulder to shoulder with donors preparing food—while monks chant blessings for families and friends who’ve come together to celebrate. The setting might look different, but the spirit doesn’t. Cambodian-Americans show up in beautifully worn traditional outfits, carrying a quiet pride that makes the whole space feel unmistakably Khmer. And it’s not just about the rituals. The celebrations spill into performances too—classical dances that echo Cambodia’s cultural roots, and even a Kun Lbokator demonstration by Mao Leakhena, the 2023 Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, bringing a piece of living heritage right into the heart of Washington state. Because life here runs on work schedules and weekday commitments, most of the big ceremonies are pushed to the weekend. In nearby Tacoma, organizers have adapted even further—structuring events in a flexible, practical way so more people can take part. It’s a different rhythm from back home, but the intention is the same: to gather, to honor tradition, and to keep a sense of belonging alive—no matter how far from Cambodia you are.** **Follow us on: **[**Facebook**](https://www.facebook.com/CambodianessTTN/)** **[**X**](https://www.facebook.com/CambodianessTTN/)** **[**Telegram**](http://t.me/cambodianess)** **[**Instagram**](http://instagram.com/cambodianess)** **[**Linkedin**](http://linkedin.com/company/cambodianess)** **[**Youtube**](https://www.youtube.com/@cambodianess)** **[**Threads**](https://www.threads.net/@cambodianess)** **[**Tiktok**](https://www.tiktok.com/@cambodianess?_t=8nCThfAFnvj&_r=1)