Visit Hmong New Year in Inola and you’ll be struck by the smells of smoky sausages and sticky rice, vibrant traditional clothing and the jingling sounds the attire makes with each step.
Every October, thousands of Hmong people nationwide travel to rural Oklahoma for a celebration full of dancing, food and tradition. Organizers say it’s the largest unifying event for all Hmong Oklahomans. This year’s event was Oct. 10.
People take a shot of sparkling juice and an egg upon entering the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. These symbolize replenishing spirits and welcoming in the new year. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer 
Jai Vang plays the Qeej, a traditional Hmong instrument, while dancing at the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Hmong American Association of Oklahoma organized the event. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer 
Traditional clothing at the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Hmong American Association of Oklahoma organized the event. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer 
People play in a volleyball competition at the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Hmong American Association of Oklahoma organized the event. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer 
Shots of sparkling juice at the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Hmong American Association of Oklahoma organized the event. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer 
Cinsta Thao poses for a photo at the annual Hmong New Year celebration in Inola, Oklahoma, Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The Hmong American Association of Oklahoma organized the event. Credit: Libby Hobbs / Tulsa Flyer
Tulsa’s first Hmong immigrants arrived 50 years ago. While many have come and gone since then, Hmong Tulsans now number in the thousands. Read more in the Flyer about how this community and the Hmong American Association of Oklahoma has evolved over the years.
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