150 soccer teams from around the world compete at Hmong Freedom Celebration

Hmong Freedom Celebration
150 soccer teams from around the world are taking part in the two-day Hmong Freedom Celebration and sports festival in St. Paul, July 4-5, 2014.
Tim Post / MPR News

Athletes from around the world are on hand for the annual Hmong Freedom Celebration and sports festival in St. Paul's Como Park Friday and Saturday.

The event, now in its 34th year, is expected to draw as many as 60,000 people over its two-day run.

One of the highlights is a soccer tournament featuring 150 teams.

Hmong Freedom Celebration
Girls dressed in traditional Hmong outfits take part in the Hmong Freedom Celebration and sports festival Friday, July 4, 2014 at Como Park in St. Paul.
Tim Post / MPR News

"We have athletes from France, Thailand, Laos, Australia, local too, so all over the country of the United States," said event secretary Maien Lee. "So we're excited that they're able to join us today, too."

The festival also features basketball, flag football and volleyball competitions along with music and dance performances and traditional Hmong food.

More: For Hmong American women, flag football breaks barriers