
Major Events & Festivals in Wichita, Kansas, United States
1. Wichita River Festival
Annual four-day event featuring music, food, arts, and cultural exhibits along the Arkansas River.
- Unique Artists: Attracts renowned national and local artists for showcasing their works
- Community Gathering: Brings together thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of activities
- Cultural Diversity: Highlights the rich cultural heritage of Wichita through performances and exhibits
2. Kansas State Fair
An annual celebration of Kansas agriculture, food, and entertainment at the end of summer.
- Local Produce & Food: Showcases fresh produce and unique local foods from across the state
- Family Activities: Offers amusement rides, live music, competitions, and livestock shows for all ages
- Agriculture Education: Provides educational exhibits about Kansas agriculture and its importance to the state
3. Wichita's Old Cowtown Museum
Historic village showcasing life in the late 19th century Wichita and the cattle industry.
- Authentic Reenactments: Features costumed interpreters demonstrating everyday tasks of the past
- Historic Buildings: Preserves over 20 original and replica buildings from Wichita's early years
- Hands-on Activities: Offers visitors the opportunity to try their hand at traditional activities
4. Wichita's Botanica Wichita Gardens
Beautiful botanical garden featuring various themed gardens and educational programs.
- Rare Plants & Species: Features over 3,000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered ones
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, classes, and guided tours to learn about gardening and horticulture
- Relaxing Environment: Provides a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature
5. Wichita Art Museum
A premier cultural institution featuring American art from the 18th century to the present.
- Expansive Collection: Houses over 5,000 works of art in various media, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics
- Educational Programs: Provides tours, lectures, and workshops to enhance understanding of the artwork
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists and art movements
6. Wichita's Sedgwick County Zoo
Home to over 3,000 animals representing 500 species, spanning 330 acres.
- Exhibits & Attractions: Features various habitats and attractions like the African Adventure and Primate World
- Conservation Efforts: Involved in numerous conservation initiatives to protect endangered species
- Educational Programs: Offers educational activities, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours
7. Wichita's Exploration Place
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits for all ages, focusing on education and fun.
- Innovative Exhibits: Features over 200 interactive exhibits exploring various scientific topics
- Local Connections: Highlights the role of science and technology in Wichita's history and present
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and demonstrations to engage visitors in learning
8. Wichita's Mid-America All Indian Center
Celebrates Native American culture through art, education, and community events.
- Cultural Exhibits: Displays traditional and contemporary artwork from various tribes
- Community Events: Hosts powwows, cultural dances, and educational workshops throughout the year
- Artisan Marketplace: Offers authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, and artwork for purchase
9. Wichita's Wacky Wednesday
A weekly event in downtown Wichita offering food trucks, live music, and shopping.
- Unique Food Options: Brings together a variety of local and regional food vendors
- Local Shopping: Allows visitors to explore downtown Wichita's unique boutiques and shops
- Live Music & Entertainment: Features local musicians and performers for an enjoyable atmosphere
10. Wichita's Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Annual celebration of Mexican culture with food, music, and dancing in downtown Wichita.
- Authentic Mexican Food: Offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes for visitors to enjoy
- Live Music & Dance: Features Mariachi bands, salsa dancing, and other musical performances
- Cultural Education: Provides information about the history and traditions of Cinco de Mayo
11. Wichita's Dragon Boat Festival
Annual event showcasing dragon boat racing, cultural performances, and food.
- Competitive Racing: Teams from across the region compete in exciting races on the Arkansas River
- Cultural Performances: Features traditional Chinese music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations
- Food & Shopping: Offers authentic Asian food, as well as cultural merchandise for purchase
12. Wichita's Germanfest
Annual event celebrating Wichita's rich German heritage with food, music, and dancing.
- Traditional Food & Drink: Offers authentic German cuisine, such as bratwurst, pretzels, and beer
- Live Music & Dance: Features traditional German music, such as polka and waltzes, as well as dancing performances
- Cultural Education: Provides information about the history and traditions of Wichita's German heritage
13. Wichita's Pride Festival
Annual LGBTQ+ celebration with music, food, and entertainment.
- Community Support: Provides a supportive and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community
- Entertainment & Activities: Offers live music, dancing, and various activities for festival-goers
- Cultural Education: Promotes understanding, acceptance, and celebration of LGBTQ+ identities
14. Wichita's Scottish Festival & Highland Games
Annual event celebrating Scottish heritage with music, dancing, and athletic competitions.
- Scottish Music & Dance: Features traditional Scottish bagpipes, fiddles, and Highland dances
- Athletic Competitions: Includes events like the caber toss, hammer throw, and stone put
- Cultural Education: Offers opportunities to learn about Scottish history, culture, and traditions
15. Wichita's Chalk Art Festival
Annual event showcasing artists from across the region creating chalk art masterpieces.
- Creative Expression: Allows talented artists to showcase their skills and creativity
- Community Engagement: Encourages visitors to participate in the creation of chalk art
- Art Appreciation: Offers opportunities to appreciate and learn about street art