BY CHRISTIAN DE JESUS BETANCOURT

CV Journalism Collaborative

One of Merced’s most vibrant and culturally-rich celebrations is currently underway.

The Merced Hmong New Year, which began Friday and continues through Sunday, has transformed the Merced County Fairgrounds into a hub of tradition, food, music, and community connection.

Hosted by Merced Lao Family Community, Inc., this annual event invites the community to experience the diverse and enduring customs of the Hmong people. 

The celebration offers everyone a packed schedule that includes traditional ball-tossing games, cuisine from the area, cultural shows, talent showcases, and sports competitions.

This year, organizers are emphasizing the traditional ball-tossing game known as “pov pob.”

The game is a centuries-old courtship ritual where young people meet potential partners, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.

“This year, we’re going to have more participants for the ball tossing,” said Paul Thao, executive director of Merced Lao Family Community, Inc. “We’re going to have the elderly come and show the ball tossing to the younger generation. Usually, the elderly don’t participate, but we want to bridge that gap.”

The inclusion of elders aims to enrich the experience and preserve the authenticity of the tradition.

Rooted in centuries-old customs, the Hmong New Year marks the end of the harvest season and a time for renewal, reflection, and reconnection.

“Back in Laos, we had this once a year only,” Thao said. “We have to have this to show family and friends to come and meet together.”

He added that the celebration back in Laos offered a rare opportunity for isolated farmers, who often spent their days toiling away on remote farms, to reconnect with loved ones, share in the joy of community, and perhaps even spark the beginnings of a lifelong partnership.

The New Year celebration highlights the values of family and community while offering younger generations an opportunity to connect with their heritage, a sentiment Thao underscored with an emphasis on inclusivity.

“I want to invite all the community — not only the Southeast Asian — but all the community to come and enjoy learning the culture,” he said. “We are here in the U.S. We are the same family. Any group, any culture — we need to participate and support each other as family.”

The festival promises a lively atmosphere with an expected attendance of 4,000 to 5,000 people daily.  Dance competitions will take center stage in the fairground’s Commerce Building today and Sunday, with last year’s event drawing an impressive 20 dance groups, according to Thao. 

The United Band’s performance set for today promises to fill the air with music and celebration. Soccer and volleyball tournaments aim to bring together players of all ages to foster camaraderie and excitement.

Attendees can also explore an array of traditional food stalls, handmade crafts, and vendors offering authentic Hmong clothing and cultural items, ensuring a feast for the senses and a chance to take home a piece of the celebration.

For more details about the Merced Hmong New Year, including a schedule of events and information about participation, visit the Merced Lao Family Community, Inc.at www.mercedlaofamily.org or call 209-384-7384.

— Christian De Jesus Betancourt is the bilingual communities reporter at The Merced FOCUS, a nonprofit newsroom covering Merced. The Merced FOCUS is part of the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative.