GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Green Bay Hmong New Year celebration returned this weekend with special significance, marking 50 years since Hmong families first resettled in the United States following the Vietnam War.
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The two-day celebration, held at the UW-Green Bay Kress Center and organized by Peb Yog Hmoob (We Are Hmong), brought together local nonprofits, community leaders, and families for cultural performances, ceremonies, veteran honors, and traditional New Year festivities.
Event Chair Mai Lu Vang says the celebration represents one of the most important annual traditions for Hmong families in the region.
“This is a collaboration of local Hmong organizations to create a Hmong New Year,” Vang said. “It’s one of the few holidays that the Hmong people celebrate… It’s this weekend we are celebrating.”
The event opened with a symbolic two-ribbon ceremony. One ribbon signifies the closing of the old year, while the other welcomes the new.
“There are two ribbons… one for bringing out the old and the other bringing in the new so we can keep the bow as a symbol of the blessing bestowed upon us,” Vang said.
Organizers say this year’s celebration is especially meaningful, marking five decades since the first Hmong refugees arrived in the U.S. after aiding American forces during the Vietnam War.
“It’s been an amazing 50 years living here in the United States, being able to grow from being refugees all the way to what we are now,” Vang said. “It’s a blessing to be in America and grow ourselves.”
Mayor Eric Genrich says the Hmong community has become an integral part of Green Bay’s identity.
“I don’t know a Green Bay without the Hmong people… they are such a big part of who we are,” Mayor Genrich said.
This year’s New Year celebration features cultural dancing and talent competitions, traditional ball-tossing, sports tournaments, Hmong vendors, food stands and performances from local Hmong artists. A night party at Riverside Ballroom also highlights musical talent and community gathering.
The event continues through Sunday at the UWGB Kress Center.
