ST. PAUL — Thousands of people are expected to attend this year’s Hmong New Year celebration.

The event is being held at St. Paul’s RiverCentre on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports the 38th annual event will include dance, music, food, crafts and dress.

ChuPheng Lee is president of the Lao Family Community of Minnesota. Lee says the Hmong American community is an important part of Minnesota’s social fabric.