Atlas Obscura · People & society

Giant Puppet Parade in Siem Reap

The Giant Puppet Project, established in 2007 in Siem Reap, Cambodia, uses art therapy to engage children in vulnerable situations.

Children in Cambodia face challenges including poverty, landmines, and abandonment, leading to various care institutions like orphanages and activity centers.

The project, inspired by art therapy, allows children to create and parade giant, themed, lit-up paper puppets through Siem Reap's streets.

Participation offers children skills for future employment as artisans, cultural knowledge, and a break from routine.

The parade benefits both the participating children and the spectators.

The annual event was only paused from 2020 to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Currently, an estimated 400-500 children participate in each parade.

Puppet design and building occur in both Siem Reap and Battambang, with workshops open for visits year-round.

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