July 12, 2014 at 9:17 p.m.
For first-time Hodagers, it's trial by fire
For first-time Hodagers, it's trial by fire
The vast majority of those in attendance at the annual Hodag Country Festival are regulars. In fact, it's not uncommon to meet people who have attended nearly every installment.
They blend in. They're just one in a crowd of thousands of dedicated country music fans. It's the newbies that stick out like a sore thumb.
They're affectionately called Hodag virgins, and usually they have some kind of identification, a badge or a sign, hanging around their necks.
It's not about hazing or proving worth, it's an indicator that these newbies need to be given the VIP treatment. Hodag is known for it's welcoming and inclusive nature, and that extends tenfold to the rookies.
Jordan Hall of Wausau is attending his first Hodag. He is sporting a tasteful paper plate around his neck proclaiming his newborn Hodag status. He said he's been enjoying the ride so far.
"This is my first year here," he said. "I had heard good things and my girlfriend loves it. She made me come with her this year. I'm having a very good time so far and I can't wait for some of the other shows."
His girlfriend, Denise Gage, said she wasn't going to let Hall pass on this year's Hodag, and she's going to make sure he gets the full experience.
"I love this place, so I made him come this year," she said. "I made him his little sign myself, even though I spelled it wrong at first, because he'll get a ton of free drinks. That's what happens when it's your first Hodag."
That's what that sign around his neck will earn him. Those experienced fest-goers, especially those who really love the Hodag, want to extend that experience to the rookies.
Dan Riggins of Marquette, Mich. said he's been coming to the Hodag for a long time, and always wants to help welcome the newcomers.
"It's fun to see the new guys out here," he said. "They might not know exactly what they're getting themselves into yet, but we always want to make sure they have a great time. That's what the Hodag is about. It's a community, kind of. We're all here for the same reason. It's fun to see fresh faces."
Jenny Olson made the trip from Rice Lake this year for her very first Hodag. She said it's a little overwhelming at times, but she's enjoying being a first-time Hodager.
"When people find out, it can be a little much," she said. "They just want to offer you the shirt off their backs, practically. I don't have to buy a beer pretty much ever. I'm definitely having fun, and I'm loving the music. I'm looking forward to next year when I'm not a Hodag virgin anymore though."
But that's the way it is for first-time Hodagers. At a festival where most of the attendees come back year after year, the newcomers are welcomed with open arms.
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