New Hope’s July 4 Firecracker Celebration 2025

Perennial favorites the Tuba Band received the John Phillip Sousa Award.

The annual New Hope July 4 celebration brought an array of talent to the grassy area under the pines on the grounds of the historic South New Hope Church. Entertainment was provided to folks both young and not so young that had family and friend ties to New Hope Township from one to multiple generations back. Attendees were offered freshly popped popcorn and beverages during the performances. The doors of the church were opened for tours after a most entertaining event.

The annual, outstanding Paper Plate Awards were given to:

Best Stand-Up Jokes Award: Sam Booth for providing the crowd with lots of laughter.

The Don Ho Award: The Bartig duo of Gary and David, aka “the Bubble Boys,” performed songs that included the old-time favorite, “Tiny Bubbles.”

Finger Pickin’/Strummin’ Good Award: The Central Wisconsin Ukulele Troupe led by Chris Kokesh for their great acoustic performance.

The John Phillip Sousa Award: The Tuba Band led by Mark Kryshak for providing a fabulous brass performance. In between the tuba tunes, Mark entertained the crowd with tuba jokes.

The festivities closed with multiple generations of the Ludeman family singing “Abba Dabba Honey Moon” in honor of Terry and Pat Ludeman’s 65th wedding anniversary.