Thanksgiving and Christmas aren’t the only holidays to mark this time of year. Another important occasion is the Hmong New Year, which is celebrated by the thousands of Chippewa Valley residents who trace their heritage to Laos. You don’t have to be Hmong to enjoy the festivities, fun, and food at the annual Eau Claire Hmong New Year Celebration, which will be held at the Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14-15, from 8am-5pm, plus Saturday from 7pm to midnight. Adult admission is just $3, and kids under 4 feet tall are free!