Hmong New Year Celebration

For generations, Hmong families have marked the end of the harvest season by giving thanks to their ancestors and welcoming the year ahead. This November, that celebration comes to Seattle Center as Seattle Hmong New Year Festival returns for a free celebration of Hmong culture, from embroidered dress and silverwork to music, dance, and food. The festival runs 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14 in the Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall as part of Seattle Center Festál.

The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony program at 12:00pm on the Armory stage, followed by an afternoon of song and dance starting with returning dance groups, Stella Luna and Nkauj Hmoob Spokane. This year’s program will feature a special performance by an elder and an exciting segment highlighting cultural practitioners. The evening closes with a night concert with live band performances, beats from a local DJ, and four incredible guest artists: Coolaycoo, Treasure, Johnny Lo, and J.A.M.E.S.