Every summer, the City of Neola comes alive with the energy, heart, and tradition of the Hoo Doo Days Celebration—a beloved tradition that’s been bringing the community together since 1946. What started as a heartfelt homecoming for World War II veterans has grown into a vibrant weekend of connection, gratitude, and fun for all ages. With live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a strong mission to support local causes, Hoo Doo Days is more than just a festival, it’s a reflection of Neola’s spirit.
This year’s theme, Stayin' Alive in ’25, brings extra flair and fun to the festivities, celebrating resilience, community pride, and a whole lot of good times. Rooted in tradition, driven by community, and fueled by joy, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss.
Here’s what’s happening Friday through Monday to help you make the most of Hoo Doo Weekend!
Friday, August 29
Kick off Hoo Doo Weekend with a laid-back, family-friendly movie night on Friday! Head to Neola City Park at dusk for an outdoor showing of Alvin and the Chipmunks. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks—it's the perfect way to ease into the weekend fun!
Saturday, August 30
- 3 VS 3 Soccer
8 AM | Neola Park Soccer Fields - Bike Ride
9 AM Registration | Blue Moon | $10 Entry - Learn to Kayak at Arrowhead Park
Session 1: 11 AM - Register here
Session 2: 2 PM - Register here - Tug-of-war contest
11 AM | Neola Park Volleyball Court
Register your 8-person team (4 men & 4 women, ages 13+) for the tug-of-war contest with a $500 grand prize—sign up here! - Groovy Market Vendor Fair
3 PM - 6 PM | 4th Street - Boogie Down BBQ Battle
4 PM - 6 PM | 4th & Pearl Street
Features live music by Perfectly Off, drinks and beer, cash prizes for the best BBQ, and $10 wristbands for public sampling! - Teen Dance
8 PM - 10 PM | Neola Park
Get ready to dance the night away at the Teen Dance, open to 6th grade and up, with concessions to keep you fueled all night!
Sunday, August 31
- Hoo Doo Hustle
5K Run - $25 Entry | 8AM - 9AM
Kids 1 Mile - $10 Entry | 8:15AM - 9AM
Lace up for the Hoo Doo Hustle! Every participant gets a fun prize, and top finishers in each category take home medals—sign up now! - Pancake Breakfast
8 AM - 12 PM | Neola Area Community Center - Sand Volleyball Tourney
9 AM | Bucksnort - Slow Pitch Softball Tourney
10 AM | Neola Park - Disco Dash Scavenger Hunt
2 PM - 3:30 PM | Neola Community Center - Fireman Dinner
5 PM - 7:30 PM | Neola Fire Hall - Adult Street Dance
7 PM - 11 PM | 4th Street
Get ready to groove all night at the Adult Street Dance! Doors open at 8 PM with WRECKED BECKY live, just $10 to dance the night away!
Monday, September 1
- Parade
10 AM | Neola Ball Field - Car Show
12 PM - 3PM | 4th & Pearl Street - Chuck a Luck
12 PM - 4 PM | Beer Garden on 4th Street - Carnival
12 PM - 4 PM | 3rd Street
Step right up to the Neola Carnival, enjoy thrilling rides, bouncy houses, and fun games with a $25 wristband for unlimited access to all the excitement! - Bean Bag Tournament
12 PM - 6 PM | Beer Garden on 4th Street
Show off your skills at the Bean Bag Tournament and score a chance to win custom Hoo Doo boards—plus, don’t miss the auction to take one home! - Beer Garden
12 PM - 7 PM | 3rd Street - Live Entertainment by Logan Corbino and Shadow Ridge Band
12:30 PM - 7 PM | Beer Garden on 4th Street - Pig Bingo
2 PM | 3rd Street
Support a great cause, enjoy some laughs, and take your shot at $1,000! - Bingo
2 PM - 4 PM | Neola Fire Station
Food Vendors Available on Monday 12 PM - 6 PM
Neola City Hall
- J's Coffee & Donuts
3rd Street
- NAMI - Drinks & Ice Cream
- Ohana Ice
- Food Trough - Funnel Cakes
- Pims Thai
- Johnny Riccos Brooklyn Pizza
- Streetside Foods
- Los Tres Tacos
- Hippo Hot
4th Street
- Bucksnort
- Wine Slushies
Hoo Doo Weekend is all about celebrating what makes Neola special—our strong sense of community, proud traditions, and the joy of coming together. Whether you're dancing, volunteering, cheering at the parade, or catching up with neighbors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check the Hoo Doo Days Facebook page for real-time updates, last-minute changes, and highlights throughout the weekend. Let’s keep Stayin’ Alive in ’25!
