Kansas 2025 Calendar - List of Festivals and Big Events: Significance and Celebration

Comprehensive Guide to U.S. Holidays and Festivals in 2025

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Discover the Heartland Through Kansas’ 2025 Festivals

Kansas, known as the "Sunflower State," offers a rich tapestry of festivals that celebrate its deep agricultural roots, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community. From bustling fairs and music festivals to historical reenactments and cultural celebrations, Kansas’ 2025 festival calendar invites locals and visitors alike to experience the state’s unique charm.

Kansas festivals highlight the state’s agricultural heritage, historical significance, and creative spirit. Whether you’re enjoying the spectacle of hot air balloons in Topeka, savoring barbecue at a food festival in Kansas City, or stepping back in time at a frontier reenactment, Kansas has something for everyone. With a mix of family-friendly events, music festivals, and seasonal celebrations, 2025 promises an unforgettable journey through the Sunflower State.

A festival map for Kansas 2025

List of Festivals in Kansas 2025: Date, Location, Significance, Activities

January

Kansas Day Celebration

• Date: January 29, 2025
• Location: Topeka, KS
• Significance: A celebration of Kansas’ statehood, marking its entry into the Union in 1861.
• Activities:
  • Historical exhibits and interactive workshops at the Kansas Museum of History.
  • Parades and community events featuring local performers.
  • Educational programs for families and children.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the museum; public transit recommended.

February

Chocolate Festival

• Date: February 10, 2025
• Location: Manhattan, KS
• Significance: A sweet celebration of all things chocolate, perfect for Valentine’s season.
• Activities:
  • Chocolate tastings from local chocolatiers and bakeries.
  • Live demonstrations of dessert-making techniques.
  • Vendor booths with artisanal chocolate products.
• Tickets: Tickets available online; early booking recommended.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; carpooling encouraged.

March

Kansas Craft Brewers Expo

• Date: March 16, 2025
• Location: Lawrence, KS
• Significance: A celebration of Kansas’ thriving craft beer scene.
• Activities:
  • Beer tastings from local breweries.
  • Food pairings and live music performances.
  • Panel discussions with brewers and industry experts.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online.
• Transportation: Public transit and downtown parking available.

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April

Symphony in the Flint Hills

• Date: April 20, 2025
• Location: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, KS
• Significance: A unique concert experience celebrating the beauty of the Flint Hills.
• Activities:
  • Live orchestral performances under the open sky.
  • Guided prairie walks and educational exhibits about local ecology.
  • Art and craft vendors featuring prairie-themed creations.
• Tickets: Tickets available online; early booking recommended.
• Transportation: Parking available at designated lots; shuttle services provided.

May

Wichita Riverfest

• Date: May 31–June 8, 2025
• Location: Wichita, KS
• Significance: Kansas’ largest community festival, showcasing the culture and spirit of Wichita.
• Activities:
  • Live music performances across multiple stages.
  • Food trucks, art exhibits, and fireworks displays.
  • Family-friendly games, parades, and water activities on the Arkansas River.
• Tickets: Festival buttons available online and at the event.
• Transportation: Downtown parking available; public transit recommended.

June

Hot Air Balloon Regatta

• Date: June 14–16, 2025
• Location: Topeka, KS
• Significance: A dazzling display of hot air balloons filling the skies over Kansas’ capital.
• Activities:
  • Balloon launches, tethered rides, and nighttime balloon glows.
  • Food vendors and live music performances.
  • Arts and crafts booths with handmade souvenirs.
• Tickets: Free general admission; balloon rides require tickets.
• Transportation: Public parking available; rideshare encouraged.

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July

Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Kansas City, KS
• Significance: A grand celebration of Independence Day with dazzling fireworks and patriotic activities.
• Activities:
  • Spectacular fireworks display over the Kansas River.
  • Live performances featuring patriotic and contemporary music.
  • Food trucks and vendors offering local delicacies.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public parking available downtown; rideshare services encouraged.

Smoky Hill River Festival

• Date: July 12–14, 2025
• Location: Salina, KS
• Significance: A vibrant festival celebrating arts, culture, and community spirit along the Smoky Hill River.
• Activities:
  • Art installations, live music performances, and cultural exhibits.
  • Craft vendors offering handmade goods.
  • Food stalls featuring regional cuisine and refreshing beverages.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available at the event and online.
• Transportation: Parking available near the festival grounds; shuttles provided.

August

Kansas State Fair Warm-Up

• Date: August 23–25, 2025
• Location: Hutchinson, KS
• Significance: A preview event for the state’s largest annual fair, offering sneak peeks and exclusive activities.
• Activities:
  • Mini livestock exhibits and local food vendors.
  • Live music and carnival rides.
  • Early access to select fair attractions.
• Tickets: Tickets available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; rideshare options encouraged.

September

Kansas State Fair

• Date: September 6–15, 2025
• Location: Hutchinson, KS
• Significance: The largest and most iconic event in Kansas, celebrating agriculture, arts, and community.
• Activities:
  • Livestock competitions, carnival rides, and games.
  • Art exhibits and live music performances.
  • Food vendors serving fair classics like funnel cakes and turkey legs.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; family passes offered.
• Transportation: Public parking available; shuttles run from designated lots.

Applejack Festival

• Date: September 21–22, 2025
• Location: Troy, KS
• Significance: A celebration of Kansas’ apple harvest and agricultural heritage.
• Activities:
  • Apple picking, cider tastings, and pie baking contests.
  • Live bluegrass music and dance performances.
  • Family-friendly games and a parade.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available at the orchard; carpooling encouraged.

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October

Prairie Festival

• Date: October 4–6, 2025
• Location: Matfield Green, KS
• Significance: An environmental and cultural festival celebrating the Flint Hills and prairie ecosystems.
• Activities:
  • Talks and workshops on sustainability and prairie conservation.
  • Live performances and art exhibits inspired by the Flint Hills.
  • Guided prairie hikes and stargazing events.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; shuttle services encouraged.

Walnut Valley Festival

• Date: October 12–15, 2025
• Location: Winfield, KS
• Significance: A renowned music festival focusing on bluegrass, folk, and acoustic genres.
• Activities:
  • Live music performances by national and international artists.
  • Instrument contests and workshops for musicians.
  • Food vendors and artisan booths.
• Tickets: Tickets available online; camping passes also offered.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; shuttles provided for campers.

November

Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2025
• Location: Leavenworth, KS
• Significance: A heartfelt tribute to veterans and active military personnel.
• Activities:
  • A grand parade featuring marching bands, floats, and military units.
  • Guest speakers and commemorative ceremonies.
  • Community gatherings with food and music.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Downtown parking available; public transit recommended.

December

Festival of Lights

• Date: December 1–31, 2025
• Location: Manhattan, KS
• Significance: A month-long holiday festival illuminating downtown Manhattan with breathtaking light displays.
• Activities:
  • Walking tours of light exhibits and holiday markets.
  • Ice skating, caroling, and visits with Santa Claus.
  • Seasonal food vendors offering hot cocoa and holiday treats.
• Tickets: Free general admission; some activities require tickets.
• Transportation: Public transit and downtown parking available.

FAQs About Kansas Festivals 2025

1. What are the must-visit festivals in Kansas?

• The Wichita Riverfest, Symphony in the Flint Hills, and Kansas State Fair are iconic events not to miss.

2. Are Kansas festivals family-friendly?

• Yes, festivals like the Kansas Day Celebration and Hot Air Balloon Regatta offer activities for all ages.

3. When is the best time to visit Kansas for festivals?

• Spring and fall are ideal, with events celebrating music, food, and Kansas’ natural beauty.

4. Are there free festivals in Kansas?

• Many festivals, such as the Kansas Day Celebration and the Hot Air Balloon Regatta, offer free general admission.

5. How can I explore Kansas’ agricultural heritage through festivals?

• Attend events like the Symphony in the Flint Hills or the Kansas State Fair to learn about Kansas’ farming traditions.

Conclusion

Kansas’ 2025 festival calendar offers an exciting mix of cultural, historical, and community-focused events. From the rolling Flint Hills to vibrant city streets, each festival captures the spirit and charm of the Sunflower State. Plan your visit to experience the best of Kansas festivals and create unforgettable memories!

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