The Hmong New Year is one of the most meaningful celebrations in Hmong culture, a time to gather, give thanks, and mark the end of the harvest season. Traditionally, it’s a joyful period for families to reunite, honor ancestors and welcome new beginnings.
Madison College invites the community to its fifth annual Hmong New Year event on Dec. 6 at the Truax Campus. The event will feature Hmong food vendors, a marketplace of Hmong arts and crafts, children’s activity stations, live performances, singing competitions and community resource tables offering information and opportunities to get involved. As co-chair of the Madison College Hmong New Year Celebration, I invite the public to join the celebration.
“As we celebrate 50 years of the Hmong journey in America, we’re reminded that our stories, traditions, and values continue to strengthen the Hmong community here in Madison and across Wisconsin. Education has opened doors, inspired growth, and created new opportunities for Hmong families. Madison College is proud to continue supporting Hmong students in achieving their goals through learning and skill-building. We invite everyone to join us, bring your friends and family, and celebrate the Hmong New Year with us.
Across the U.S. and internationally, Hmong communities celebrate with sports, singing, dancing and pageantry that showcase talent, creativity and leadership. The Hmong clothing seen during the New Year beautifully blends traditional designs with today’s evolving fashion culture, reflecting how heritage continues to inspire new generations. Each style, from classic embroidery to modern reinterpretations, tells a story of identity, artistry and belonging.
Honoring 50 Years of the Hmong journey in America
This year’s celebration carries special meaning as Hmong Americans mark 50 years since the first Hmong families resettled in the United States following the Vietnam War and the Secret War in Laos. Alongside other Southeast Asian communities, Hmong refugees began rebuilding their lives in a new country while preserving their language, traditions and cultural pride.
Wisconsin has one of the largest Hmong populations in the country, where communities continue to thrive through strong family values, cultural traditions, shared leadership, and mutual support that strengthen and connect generations.
Join the Hmong New Year celebration
Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 am–4 pm, at Madison College, Truax Campus, Cafeteria Atrium, Room D1630, and Redsten Gymnasium, 1701 Wright St.
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to register online (https://forms.office.com/r/XMCZeZyJjG) to assist with planning.
Follow updates and event details on the Madison College Hmong New Year Facebook page (facebook.com/share/1Bj7UHL6Uh).
