Neewollah Festival: Halloween Fun in Independence, Kansas
During the Spooky season each year the small town of Independence, Kansas becomes the epicenter of one of the most unique and spirited Halloween celebrations in the United States – Neewollah. The strange name is just Halloween spelled backward.
What makes Independence truly special during Halloween is the way the entire community embraces the spirit of the season. The town's rich history blends seamlessly with modern Halloween traditions, creating an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and thrillingly modern.
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Independence's Haunted History & Legends
The Neewollah 11-day extravaganza has been bewitching visitors since 1919, making it the largest annual celebration in Kansas. As Halloween nears, Independence's population grows from 8,500 to a staggering 75,000, as revelers from far and wide descend upon the town to partake in the ghostly festivities.
The town of Independence, Kansas has a rich haunted history with several spooky locations and ghostly legends surrounding the town. The land the town was settled on was purchased (some could say stolen) from the Osage Tribe in 1869 for $50 before the tribe was forced to relocate to Oklahoma.
Just outside Independence lies the abandoned town of LeHunt, considered one of the top 10 most haunted locations in Kansas. This former cement company town is now overgrown ruins, but reportedly still active with paranormal activity.
The land seemed cursed from the start because the cement company was plagued with financial troubles throughout its short life span. In only 15 years the property had changed hands multiple times and became desolate as workers moved their homes out of the area looking for better jobs and more stability. Could this curse be related to the underhanded land dealings with the Osage?
The crumbling cement plant is said to be haunted by the ghost of a worker named Bohr, who tragically fell into a vat of concrete and was never recovered. His wheelbarrow, pick, and shovel were embedded into a concrete wall by coworkers after the accident. His name and pickaxe can still allegedly be seen in the ruins.
Locals report feeling an “evil” presence and encountering hostile spirits in the area. The town's history of inequality, failed dreams, and tragedy is thought to contribute to lingering negative energy and hauntings.
This was the site of a brutal assault and murder in 1996. The killer led Brian Durnill to the site and then stabbed him. Paramedics arrived but Brian passed at the site. The murderer was convicted of second-degree murder in 1997.
paranormal investigations for brave souls.
While technically in Independence, Missouri rather than Kansas, the 1859 Jail Museum offers ghost tours and paranormal investigations that draw visitors from the region. Reported paranormal activity includes unexplained sounds like crying and footsteps, the smell of pipe smoke with no source, ghost sightings, and feelings of being watched or touched.
The Neewollah Festival & Events
Visitors to Independence during Neewollah can expect many thrilling delights from parades (yes that’s plural!) to eerie attractions. There are so many events you will have a hard time fitting them all in.
There are parades galore during Neewollah with 3 different parades winding through the streets. The festival's highlight is the Grand Parade a two-hour spectacle on the final Saturday that draws massive crowds up to five people deep along the route. The parade features floats, school bands, and a “great flyover” to kick things off.
The whimsical Kiddie Parade is a charming procession featuring over 1,000 children dressed in their best Halloween costumes. It will transport you back to when you were excited for Halloween and all the candy!
The Doo Dah Parade for adults only is a Mardi Gras-style parade with costumed participants and a rowdy atmosphere. This parade takes place on the first Thursday night of the festival and has costume prizes for the Best Individual Costume and the Best Group Costumes.
The Queen Neelah Pageant crowns a royal court of Halloween, with titles like Miss Originality and Miss Photogenic adding a touch of glamour to the ghoulish proceedings. This ghostly pageant is open to girls from 17 – 18 years old.
for the grand prize.
A chili cook-off and dessert competition adds some sweet heat to the chilly October nights, while the Great Pumpkin contest showcases the biggest and most bizarre gourds in the area. Try some of the more unusual chili styles and BBQ dishes that Kansas is known for.
An arts and crafts show highlights the creative talents of Independence's residents while the downtown area comes alive with food vendors, a sprawling carnival, and nightly entertainment that will keep your spirits high and your heart pounding.
Shattered Souls Haunted House is the largest haunted house attraction in Southeast Kansas. While not a true haunted house, you are 100% guaranteed to see some spirits and ghouls.
As you wander the streets of Independence during Neewollah, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a Halloween dreamscape. The air is thick with the scent of caramel apples and the sound of distant laughter. Around every corner, a new surprise awaits – perhaps a street performer in an otherworldly costume or a haunting melody drifting from the bandstand.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Neewollah Festival
Book Early: With the population surge, accommodations fill up quickly. Reserve your lodging well in advance.
Arrive Early for Parades: Especially for the Grand Parade, people stake out spots in the early morning hours.
Dress for the Weather: Late October in Independence, Kansas can be chilly, so bring layers
Plan for Multiple Days: With so many events spread over 11 days, consider staying for a long weekend to fully experience Neewollah.
Participate: Many events, like the Doo Dah Parade and Kiddie Parade, welcome costumed participants. Don't be afraid to join in the fun!
Check the Schedule: There are so many eerie events spread throughout the 11 days.
Best Places to Stay in Independence
There are several local options for hotels in Independence, but unfortunately, I could not find any haunted options. These options are in town, but there are additional hotels in nearby towns too.
The Apple Tree Inn is located in historic downtown Independence, KS next to the town's Historical Museum. The hotel may not be fancy but clean and convenient. It is also pet-friendly!
The Comfort Inn & Suites is located on Main Street and offers free continental breakfast, a fitness center, and an indoor heated pool.
Picture the thrill of watching the Grand Parade, a spectacle of lights and sounds that will leave you spellbound. Envision the goosebumps rising on your arms as you explore the abandoned ruins of LeHunt, where history and mystery intertwine.
Imagine yourself strolling down Penn Avenue, the scent of delicious hearty chili and funnel cakes wafting through the air, as costumed revelers laugh and dance around you.
And when you return home, still buzzing with the energy of your spooky trip, why not share the magic? We'd love to see Independence through your eyes! Post your favorite photos from the Grand Parade or your spookiest selfie from LeHunt in the Spooky Traveling Facebook Group!
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