The Hoedown is on as scheduled.
Everything is on as planned. If the weather forces a change on the day, this page is where we will post it: check back here on September 12 before you head out.
Status updated Sep 11, 2026, 8:30 AM ET
Until the gates open
Saturday, September 12, 2026 · Gates open 3:00 PM ET
Pueo’s 2026 Paniolo Hoedown
9614 Possum Hollow Dr, Delaplane, VA 20144
Mark McGrath Johnny Van Zant with Sixwire and Swooner
One of our absolute favorite days of the year. This gathering is our annual way of celebrating the employees, partners, and suppliers who make the Pueo ohana so special.
A few things from the event hosts.
- Authorized guests
A lot of logistics go into ensuring an enjoyable and responsible event. Unfortunately, we cannot allow any guests who have not properly registered (registration is how we account for food planning and liability). Please do not bring other guests: the registration staff are under strict guidance to turn away anyone who is not already registered, and police will escort anyone without an event wristband off the property.
- Off limits
The property is a functioning horse farm with many dangers. Please monitor your children closely and do not deviate from the allowed Hoedown areas. The pond and the residence (anywhere past the bridge) are strictly off limits. Please do not feed the horses.
- Bug spray
Protect yourself from pests with insect repellent and proper clothing before you arrive.
- Parking
The property gates open at 3:00 PM. Please follow instructions from the police and parking attendants when you arrive.
Parking anywhere other than the designated parking paddocks is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate towing. Guests who need accessible parking or extra assistance: please notify the police, who will direct you to a designated parking area.
Please note the flow of traffic and be mindful of the one-lane driveway. Exiting while guests are still arriving will be difficult. If you must leave while guests are arriving, please ask the parking attendants for assistance.
- Safety
We will have police and EMTs on site. Please do not hesitate to raise any concerns with them. The coolers throughout the grounds are for you: help yourself to non-alcoholic drinks and be sure to hydrate. If any medical concerns arise, please visit the First Aid tent.
- Alcohol
Bringing your own alcohol is strictly prohibited. Please drink responsibly. If you have had too much, let event staff know and we will make sure you get home safely.
- Flashlights
Visibility is limited once the sun sets. Some lighting will be placed throughout the grounds, but we encourage you to bring your own flashlight.
- Swag
Free t-shirts and posters will be offered until they run out.
- Announcements
The day leading up to the event and the evening itself are hectic for the hosts. Please monitor your email and this page for event communications, and do not expect the event hosts to respond to personal outreach.
- Weather
Saturday’s weather forecast resembles that of the last three years, when the weather mostly cooperated (with the exception of a few early sprinkles). We will monitor the forecast closely. If the weather threatens the event, we will make a go/no-go decision by noon on September 12 and post it here: watch the status banner at the top of this page.
If some rain is forecast, we will work with the performers to adjust the schedule. Please be flexible with the schedule and come prepared for rain (umbrella, jacket, lawn chair, and so on).
Important If we call inclement weather during the event and ask you to move to a safe location, do not treat the tents as safe. Stay away from trees, which present the risk of falling branches or lightning strikes. Your safest option is your vehicle: know exactly where you parked and make your way there if necessary.
We are praying for the best and remain optimistic for great weather.
Good people, great music, good times.
- A county-fair-like experience
- Live music and entertainment
- Great food, drinks, and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere
- The return of the Pueo Olympics: come cheer on the teams
- Time to connect with colleagues, partners, and friends
- A day celebrating the people behind Pueo’s National Security mission

Lineup
- Mark McGrathLead singer of Sugar Ray
- Johnny Van ZantLead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Sixwire
- Swooner
Schedule
- 3:00Gates open
- 4:00Opening ceremonies
- 4:30Pie eating contest
- 5:00Bull riding
- 5:30Karaoke
- 7:00Swooner
- 8:00-9:30Special guests
Vendors
- La Bori
- Happy Family Ranch
- Atlantic BBQ
- Golly Waffles
- Masters of Mixology
- Axe Addicts
- Shady Oaks Amusements
Free foodFree drinksFree amusements
Mark McGrath and Johnny Van Zant headline.
Lineup update, September 11: Scott Stapp is unable to make the event. Johnny Van Zant, lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, joins the bill in his place.
Mark McGrath, lead singer of Sugar Ray, and Johnny Van Zant, lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, top the bill. Sixwire and Swooner round it out, with an opening act playing original music heavily influenced by 90s grunge and southern rock. Swooner takes the stage at 7:00, and the special guests close the night from 8:00 to 9:30.
The Pueo Olympics return.
The teams are already set. This year the rest of us have the best job of all: grab a spot by the action, pick a side, and cheer them on.
Check back here on event day.
Registration has closed. Please check back in here on September 12th for updates on the event before heading out. Looking forward to seeing you all there!
This page is for invited guests of the Pueo ohana.