Do you know what the official soft drink for Nebraska is? It’s Kool-Aid! Kool-Aid Days originated in Hastings, Nebraska to commemorate the invention of Kool-Aid.
Kool-Aid began in the roaring twenties as Fruit Smack, a liquid drink mix produced by Edwin Perkins of Hastings, Nebraska. This year in Hastings, Kool-Aid Days launched from August 20 to the 22 at the Adams County Fairgrounds, with various fun-packed events.
Throughout the weekend, Hastings Museum held several attractions for all ages to join in on, including some festivities outdoors. One activity was a station set up, which was giving out free Kool-Aid in several different flavors.
There has been growing popularity of the Kool-Aid Kardboard Boat Races for Kool-Aid Days in 2021.
“My husband and I just went to the cardboard races on Sunday. I purchased my annual t-shirt and got a new cup,” Tarah Davis, a math teacher at Hastings High said.
Although, this year didn’t seem to go as planned due to the lack of organization according to many participants.
“The only disappointing aspect this year was there was no rescue boat/jet ski to help participants if they got stuck or their boat sank. This caused long waits and many people frowned upon the organization of Kool-Aid Days this year,” Davis said.
Aside from boat races, another entertaining event was the Tigerettes, the Hastings High School Dance Team.
“Getting to dance with my team is important to me, even if I almost fell on a half-eaten hotdog! I had a lot of fun watching the other performers and being able to support and entertain my community,” Weber said.
For some people attending was not a good choice, whether it be health-wise or other personal reasons.
“I did not attend Kool-Aid Days because I have been concerned about Covid and large crowds of people,” Faye Friesen, the librarian, said.
All in all, the most common experiences were positive but some felt uneasy about the organization compared to previous years.
“Kool-Aid Days is a festival full of love, fun, and passion all in one!” Emily Brandenburg, a freshman, said.
