Hmong New Year celebration at Metrodome canceled as result of roof collapse

Organizers of the Hmong New Year celebration in Minneapolis have canceled the event following the collapse of the Metrodome's roof.

The event was set for Saturday and Sunday at the Dome but has been called off altogether.

Tong Yang, president of the event, said the board of directors searched for a new venue, including the Minneapolis Convention Center. But, Yang said, "they don't have an opening for us."

An estimated 40,000 people were expected to attend the Hmong New Year celebration in Minneapolis. A Hmong New Year celebration was also held last month at the RiverCentre in St. Paul.

According to Yang, anyone who purchased advance tickets for the Minneapolis event can get a refund.

Organizers said they've lost $35,000 in advertising and nonrefundable deposits.

The Metrodome's inflatable roof collapsed Dec. 12 after a snowstorm dumped 17 inches of snow on the Twin Cities. The collapse also forced the Minnesota Vikings to move their final two home games.

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