Celebrating Hmong New Year

The Hmong community celebrates the end of the harvest season and the start of a new year with Noj Peb Caug, a tradition based on the agricultural cycle rather than the standard January-to-December calendar. Observed in late fall, Hmong New Year is a time to honor the harvest, give thanks, and prepare for the year ahead.

For many Hmong families, the celebration often overlaps with Thanksgiving, creating a unique blend of cultural and holiday traditions.

Armstrong High School senior Sharmila Vue shared how her family uniquely celebrates this dual occasion, saying her family spends the day preparing an elaborate feast while children and young adults engage in family games.

“For Hmong folks, the New Year isn’t based on the calendar, but on the seasons,” Vue said. “Because of this, we usually combine both Thanksgiving and New Year together. We go all out with our foods, cooking both traditional Thanksgiving and Hmong food!”

Family celebrations aren’t the only opportunity to recognize the Hmong New Year.

A Vibrant Community Event

The 44th Annual Minnesota Hmong New Year is set to take place from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1, 2024, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. This event is one of the largest Hmong New Year celebrations in the country, attracting thousands of attendees from across the state.

The two-day celebration includes dance and singing competitions, beauty pageants, and cultural exhibits. It’s also an opportunity for families and friends to connect over food, games, and traditional customs like ball tossing, a courtship ritual among young Hmong adults. 

Attendees often wear intricate Hmong traditional attire, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of their cultural heritage.

“Hmong New Year is a time to show off your beauty,” Vue said, referring to the vibrant outfits that are a hallmark of the celebration. “People come to simply enjoy the vibes.”

For more details about the Minnesota Hmong New Year, visit the event website.