all the sights, sounds, and flavors
at the Hmong Wausau Festival.
[energetic music]
Celebrating Hmong life in Wisconsin,
the Hmong Wausau Festival
offers a variety of family-friendly entertainment.
I caught up with the chairman of the festival,
Yee Leng Xiong,
to find out all there is to do and eat
at this two-day celebration.
- Today, we have a wide variety of activities such as,
you know, dance competition, singing competition.
We have a wide variety of sports tournaments,
such as flag football, soccer, and volleyball, as well.
[cheering]
I think what's most very important here
is the fact that we have quite a bit of vendors,
more vendors than we've had in the previous years.
So, we're just very excited about the whole activities
that are occurring today. - Wonderful!
Yeah, I appreciate that you have the sports piece
because I think that's unique
when compared to other festivals.
It looks like that's what's taking place behind us.
- Yes, so sports is a big component
in the Hmong community, as well, too.
- Hey!
- Yee Leng Xiong: The Hmong community actually went out
and created their own competitions,
tournaments, as well,
so that that way they can compete in those
and have a chance to be competitive
against other individuals, as well,
specifically from other cities, as well.
- Wow, so can you tell us the significance
of this two-day festival for the Hmong community?
- Yes, so it's very crucial and very important
to our community here
because one thing about the Hmong community
in the state of Wisconsin
is they're scattered across many, you know, many cities.
And the only time--
We only celebrate--
We celebrate the New Year.
We celebrate, you know, weddings, funerals, etcetera,
but this, you had to have a reason
for them to come and gather.
So, by having those opportunities,
now having a reason to come and gather,
they're all coming here together as a city
and as from individuals from all across the state here,
and Midwest, and country,
coming together to celebrate.
- Angela: It's an abundant festival with a wide reach,
bringing the community together to have fun.
- Yee Leng Xiong: It takes over 300 volunteers that collaborates together
to make this event a success, and key word "volunteers."
You know, honestly, that's one of my favorite parts
of this event here is being able to see a lot of individuals
gather and have fun,
be able to enjoy smiles.
That's what makes me happy and keeps me going year after year.
[traditional Hmong singing]
- A showcase of talent
from dancers, musicians, to athletes.
Now, let's meet another Wisconsinite