Hailey
Every October, the small city of Independence, Kansas, transforms as the remarkable Neewollah festival arrives.
That’s “Halloween” spelled backwards—a twist that reflects the festival’s roots in turning Halloween mischief into something positive.
Over nine days, the town swells, lights up, and becomes a destination for families, bands, and visitors from across the region.
This article dives into the festival’s history, schedule, highlights, and what makes it uniquely Kansas-friendly.
A Unique Name and Heritage
The festival began back in 1919 as a creative response to Halloween pranks: the community decided to channel energy into parades and positive events rather than mischief.
Over time, with interruptions during the Great Depression and World War II, the event was revived and expanded, and now stands as one of the largest annual celebrations in the state.
Today, the name “Neewollah” is a reminder of fun turned purposeful.
The tradition: three parades (Doo Dah, Kiddie, and the Grand Parade), a carnival, music, a pageant, a marching-band contest, and hundreds of volunteers make it possible.
When & Where It Happens
In 2025, Neewollah is scheduled for October 17–25, 2025—nine full days in late October.
Independence has a resident population of just around 8,500 people, yet during the festival the town welcomes tens of thousands of visitors.
Downtown becomes the heart of the action: Penn Avenue, Main Street and the surrounding blocks turn into carnival space, food courts, and parade routes.
What Happens- Signature Events & Highlights
Here’s a breakdown of the major happenings you’ll find at Neewollah:
| Event / Feature | Date & Time | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Musical Production | Early nights of the festival | A Broadway-style family-friendly musical opens the festival week. |
| 5K / 10K & Fun Run | Saturday of opening weekend morning | Runners and walkers take part before the main events begin. |
| Chili Cook-Off | Saturday of opening weekend | Teams compete in a fun cook-off—great for food lovers. |
| Carnival & Food Vendors | Mid-week through to the end | Typical fireworks-atmosphere with rides, games and food stands. |
| Queen Neelah Pageant | Monday/Tuesday of festival week | Contestants vie for the title; part of the local tradition. |
| Parades: Doo Dah, Kiddie, Grand Parade | Thursday (Doo Dah), Friday (Kiddie), Saturday (Grand) | Three parades of increasing scale, culminating in the Grand Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday. |
| Marching Band Festival | Saturday, field competition | High school bands from several states compete; the Grand Parade ties into this event. |
| Arts & Crafts Fair & Evening Concerts | Saturday & later evenings | For shoppers, music-lovers, families wanting a relaxed finish to the day. |
Why It Matters To Kansas
Several key reasons make Neewollah stand out:
- Community & heritage: The festival has roots nearly a century old. It reflects the small-town spirit of Independence and the desire to build positive traditions.
- Economic boost: With tens of thousands of visitors in a town of thousands, local hotels, restaurants and shops see big upticks during the week.
- Arts & youth involvement: From the musical to the marching band competition and parades, many students and young people participate, building skills and memories.
- Family-friendly fun: Unlike typical big city Halloween events, Neewollah retains a warm, safe, inclusive atmosphere—rides, treats, pageants, parades, food—something for all ages.
Useful Facts & Figures
- The festival was founded in 1919.
- In 2025 it takes place from October 17 to October 25 (nine days).
- Independent downtown becomes the hub: the Grand Parade starts at 11 a.m. Saturday at the corner of Penn & Chestnut and winds through Main, Sixth, Maple and Ninth Street.
- The town’s usual population (~8,500) expands dramatically during the festival’s end-week days.
- Signature events include over 30 food vendors, the carnival, three parades, a major band competition, and pageants.
The Neewollah festival in Independence, Kansas is a rare gem: a small-town event with big-city atmosphere, rich heritage, broad appeal and something for everyone.
From the musical kickoff to the chili cook-off, from the carnival rides to the grand parade and marching bands, it’s easy to see why visitors return year after year.
If you plan to visit Kansas in late October, Neewollah is a standout experience — a celebration of community, creativity and fun.