Full Lyrics
You put your right hand in
You take your right hand out
You put your right hand in
And you shake it all about
You do the hokey pokey
And you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
Hey! Hokey pokey!
Hey! Hokey pokey!
Hey! Hokey pokey!
That's what it's all about!
You put your left hand in
You take your left hand out
You put your left hand in
And you shake it all about
You do the hokey pokey
And you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
You put your right foot in
You take your right foot out
You put your right foot in
And you shake it all about
You do the hokey pokey
And you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
You put your left foot in
You take your left foot out
You put your left foot in
And you shake it all about
You do the hokey pokey
And you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
You put your whole self in
You take your whole self out
You put your whole self in
And you shake it all about
You do the hokey pokey
And you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
About This Song
The Hokey Pokey (or Hokey Cokey in some countries) is a classic participatory dance song that's perfect for groups, parties, PE class, and circle time. It teaches directions (in/out), body parts, following instructions, and coordination while everyone laughs and dances together.
Children love putting body parts "in" the imaginary circle, shaking wildly, and spinning around—especially the big finale with "whole self in"! It's often used at weddings, birthdays, and school events to get everyone moving and included.
Popularized in the 1940s-1950s in the USA/UK (with roots possibly earlier), it's a timeless staple with fun versions by The Wiggles, Super Simple Songs, and many live recordings.