RAEFORD — In 2011, Hoke County celebrated 100 years with the Hoke Centennial Celebration and Carnival at East Hoke Middle School. The event was a huge success, inspiring the local community to make it an annual event. In 2020, the event was canceled due to the virus. In 2021 and 2022, Hoke Fest was expanded to 10 days of carnival rides, games, food, vendors and fun. The event will continue this expanded schedule for 2023 as Michael’s Amusements returns to provide the midway.
Michael’s Amusements is a third-generation family amusement company based out of Fayetteville, NC, and was founded in 1992. They specialize in quality family entertainment and rides that are safe and clean. All of their staff are professionally trained in the operation of their rides and safety procedures. All rides go through their own personal safety inspections, as well as state and local inspections, to ensure everyone is safe and has a memorable experience.
While this event is for the whole community, it does, however, also serve as a fundraiser for East Hoke Middle School and some of the athletic teams at Hoke County High School. There is no charge to attend Hoke Fest. There will be a $5 charge for parking on school grounds. This effort will help maximize parking space in an orderly and smooth fashion while also continuing to raise money for the aforementioned causes. Handicap spots will be available, and there will also be a designated drop-off area.
Hoke Fest will be sponsored by Pepsi-Born in the Carolinas, Lumbee River EMC, Fit4Life Raeford, Exit Realty Preferred Raeford and Math Foundations Tutoring. In addition to carnival features from previous events, this year’s Hoke Fest will also offer an entrainment stage with live music from Past Perfect Band, Ring Wars Wrestling, CMA Martial Arts, Helicopter Rides, a mechanical bull, pony rides, a petty zoo, and axe throwing.
For more information on Hoke Fest 2023, please visit the Hoke Fest 2023 Facebook page.
If you have any further questions, please contact Hal Nunn at (910) 964-0990 or nunnboys@yahoo.com.
