by Charmie Vang
The Hmong New Year’s celebration in November or December (depending on the location) is one of the most revered festivals organized each year by the Hmong people. For instance, the 2018-2019 Colorado/Denver Hmong New Year’s occurred during Fall Break this year while the Fresno Hmong New Year will be held in late December. The Hmong New Year’s festival began as a commemoration to give thanks to ancestors and spirits after the harvest season, but now extends as a cultural tradition for all people to come together to enjoy Hmong food, fashion design, and entertainment including singing and dance competitions.
One of the most popular activities during the Hmong New Year celebration is a ball tossing game called pov pob where young adults form two separate lines directly facing each other and toss a ball to one another. During this social event, people come to know each other and form new relationships. Other activities of the Hmong New Year include sports tournaments such as volleyball and soccer. Along with this, delicious food and a variety of merchandise vendors are a crucial component of the Hmong New Year celebration.
Overall, the Hmong New Year is deeply rooted in Hmong heritage and serves as a reminder of the Hmong people’s stories and traditions. Although the Hmong people live in different communities around the world including Alaska, France, and French Guiana just to name a few, the Hmong people will continue to welcome and adapt to the ever-changing integration of cultures around the world.
