The largest annual in Kansas, Neewollah spelled backwards is Halloween! This festival is meant to be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
Celebrated in the small city of Independence in Kansas, the Neewollah Festival began in October 31, 1919 as a way of providing positive activities to the local kids during Halloween. At its onset, the festival showcased parades of decorated cars and carriages all throughout the day and night of Halloween. It also featured a Queen Neelah who was selected based on how many votes she got by selling votes for a penny each. The only times that the festival was not celebrated were during the great depression, World War II, and in the 70’s. The festival has upheld its traditions and vision, so instead of scary and spooky stuffs, it is celebrated with family fun-filled events. The town of Independence is 76 miles from Tulsa, Oklahoma, 95 miles from Wichita, Kansas, and 144 miles from Kansas City, Missouri.
Neewollah Festival lures in thousands of visitors to Independence during the last week of October. It is a ten-day festival featuring wholesome activities and events including a Grand Parade, Kiddies Parade, a Doo Dah Parade, Queen’s Pageant, Hometown Musical, 5K - 10K Fun Run, Marching Band Festival, Live Shows, Chili Cook Off - Dessert Contest, Great Pumpkin Contest, Carnival, Arts & Crafts, Food Vendors, Nightly Shows, and the newest addition to the festival, the Medallion Hunt.
If you are looking for an alternative to the typical Halloween celebration, bring the entire family to the Neewollah Festival where fun is spelled in capital letters! Consult your travel agent for more details.