Childhood in Cambodia is often challenging due to poverty and the lasting impacts of conflict. These issues contribute to high rates of child abandonment and orphaning. The country also faces significant dangers from landmines, resulting in frequent amputation and explosion-related incidents among children. In response to these difficulties, various institutions provide care and support for vulnerable children, including facilities often labeled as orphanages, even if children have living parents. Boarding schools, nurseries, and activity centers also exist to assist working guardians.The Giant Puppet Project, established in 2007, emerged from an art therapy program for children in vulnerable situations. Participants create and parade large, illuminated puppets through Siem Reap's streets. This initiative equips children with artisanal skills beneficial for future employment and fosters cultural and global awareness. The parades offer a welcome distraction from their difficult routines and engage a large audience. The project experienced a pause only during the COVID-19 pandemic years of 2020-2022.Following its return, the annual event sees an estimated 400-500 children participating each spring. Like the Phare Circus, the Giant Puppet Project operates in both Siem Reap and Battambang, with puppet designs often originating in Battambang. The workshops where these elaborate puppets are brought to life are open for public visits throughout the year.