Showcase your talent, inspire our community — become the next Hmong Idol. Submit an audition video, and 15 contestants are selected to compete live at Cal Expo over two rounds.
Hmong Idol is a singing competition that highlights the vocal artistry and musical intelligence of the Hmong community. This competition serves as a platform for participants of all ages.
Entry runs through an audition video. Up to 30 entries are accepted, and the Hmong Idol coordinators review every submission to select the Top 15 contestants who advance to the live competition at Cal Expo Fairgrounds on November 28–29, 2026.
The winner takes home $2,000 and a trophy, with $1,000 for second place and $500 for third — plus the opportunity to collaborate with 1 of the 4 judges. Presented by SHNY in partnership with KD Entertainment.
Winners also receive the opportunity to collaborate with 1 out of the 4 judges.
Sign-ups open Friday, September 18, 2026. Registration runs through this page — up to 30 entries are accepted.
Starting September 18, record and submit your audition video. Email it to hmongidol@sacramentohmongnewyear.com.
All audition videos must be received by October 16, 2026. Late submissions are not considered.
The Hmong Idol coordinators review all submissions and select the Top 15 contestants to advance to the live competition.
Pitch accuracy, breath control, vocal range, and the precision of musical execution across the chosen piece.
The ability to connect with the audience through interpretation, storytelling, and emotional authenticity.
Confidence, charisma, and command of the stage — how a performer carries themselves before the audience.
Selecting a piece that showcases the performer's range while respecting the cultural significance of the festival.
Bringing a fresh interpretation or personal voice to a familiar song — making it your own without losing its essence.
The total package: how the performance moves the audience, the judges, and the broader community watching.
Sign-ups open Friday, September 18, 2026. Record your audition video and email it to hmongidol@sacramentohmongnewyear.com.
All audition videos are due. Coordinators review every submission and select the Top 15 contestants to advance.
The Top 15 perform live at Cal Expo Fairgrounds before a panel of four judges and the festival audience.
Finalists return for the championship round. Winners are crowned and awarded $2,000, $1,000, and $500 plus trophies.