Hmong New Year celebration set for Dec. 6 at Truax campus

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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 share the celebration at its 5th 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. Masaya Xiong, co-chair of the Madison College Hmong New Year Celebration, invites the public to join the celebration.

 

Women on stage wearing traditional Hmong clothing, a long multi-colored skirt, and headpiece.
Experience Hmong culture at the Hmong New Year celebration on Dec. 6 at Madison College Truax campus.

50th anniversary of Hmong journey in US

“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,” Xiong says. “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. 

This year's Hmong New Year 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.

Event details

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
WHERE: Madison College, Truax Campus — Cafeteria Atrium, Room D1630, and Redsten Gymnasium, 1701 Wright St., Madison, WI 
MORE INFO: Visit the Madison College event page.