The Histrory of Hmong New Year

The Hmong New Year celebration has existed thousands of years and in recent years has changed considerably.  The heritage of this unique celebration was celebrated on the last day of the 12^th Lunar Moon each year.  Hmong ancestors celebrated this event in their native country of Laos through many traditional activities.

a.   The beginning ceremonies in the Hmong villages in Laos included all family members to pass under a vine symbolizing leaving behind all that was evil  and welcoming all that is good

b.   Families would conduct a soul calling ceremony which would eliminate all bad spirits and provide only good to enter their home

c.   A cleansing of their bodies were then completed

d.   Immediately after Midnight the women would go to water wells to collect the “new and clear water” for their families

e.   Village populations would not work for three days and would partake in special New Year activities-Top (Tuj Lub), and cultural dances.  Hmong folk music and song, traditional ball tossing, and other special events

Since immigration to the United States and for the past 23 years, the Hmong population has celebrated their annual New Year in Merced County.  Many traditional and cultural activities have changed and the New Year celebrations have lost its original meaning for the young generation.  The original purpose of the Hmong New Year celebration was to gather family and friends together for days of rest and relaxation; to bring young generations together; and to call for a prosperous New Year.  The New Year celebration is a most important time for the Hmong population and is a very special event in the social lives of the Hmong in Merced County.