Downtown Manhattan Inc.

New Year's Eve Jr. - The Ultimate Kids Countdown Party!
2025-12-31 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Manhattan Brewing Co., 406 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
New Year’s Eve Jr. – The Ultimate Kids’ Countdown Party!
Kicks off at 3 PM | Epic Balloon Drop at 5 PM
Why should grownups have all the fun? Join us for New Year’s Eve Jr., the early-evening celebration made just for kids, families, and anyone who loves a good party before bedtime!
Get Ready for Big Fun!
5 PM Balloon Drop Blast!Count down together as a shower of balloons fills the room—our very own “midnight” moment!
Bubbly for Everyone!Kids sip on sparkling cider while adults enjoy sparkling wine (and yes—beer, wine, and cocktails too!).
Craft StationKids can get creative with New Year’s crafts—perfect for keepsakes or party decorations.
Wii Games FunPlay, dance, bowl, race, or compete in family-friendly Wii games.
Kid-Approved Movies!Snuggle up or chill out with a rotation of family favorites on the big screen.
Drinks for the GrownupsParents can relax with a full bar while the kids burn off that end-of-year energy.
Bring the whole crew for an afternoon packed with celebration, laughter, and countdown magic—all before dinnertime!

Family New Year's Eve: Builders Bash
2025-12-31 18:00 - 20:30 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
It’s our annual family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year. Party the night away with food, music, fun, and our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 pm).

Families will enjoy:

Delicious snacks and drinks
Access to all FHDC exhibits, including the Building Buddies temporary exhibit
Fun-filled themed activities
Our famous balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 pm)

Date:
December 31, 2025

Time:
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Location:

View Facility
Flint Hills Discovery Center

Address:
315 S. 3rd Street
Manhattan, KS 66502

Cost:
FHDC members 2+: $22, Non-members 2+: $28, Everyone under 2: no cost, scholarship eligible

Link:
Register today!

Family New Year’s Eve: Builders Bash

Grassland Mini-Golf at the Flint Hills Discovery Center
2026-01-10 - 2026-05-10
The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) opens an exclusive temporary exhibit on Saturday, January 10.
Grassland Mini-Golf invites guests to discover the rich ecology of the tallgrass prairie as they play through nine minigolf holes. Score a hole-in-one and discover a story about prairie plants, animals, and the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Navigate the night to meet nocturnal animals and hit the ball through the tree.
Putt, putt, putt the ball gently down the stream, using the rocks to guide the way.
Step back in time to discover a Mosasaur Fossil but be careful not to get bit.
Herd the ball into the barn down on the ranch.
and more!

Each of the nine minigolf holes is designed by the FHDC staff to introduce guests to a part of the endangered Flint Hills ecosystem and educate them about the importance of preserving the prairie.
“What better way to introduce people to the Flint Hills ecosystem than with a fun-filled 9-hole minigolf course,” said Stephen Bridenstine, FHDC Director. “This exhibit will have you thinking on your feet as you aim for that hole-in-one. And when you combine it with our Stepping into the Prairie immersive exhibit, it is guaranteed fun for the whole family.”
Visitors can also solve several prairie puzzler brain teasers to improve their score.
Thank you to our sponsors, The Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation, and Visit Manhattan.
In addition to Grassland Mini-Golf, the Flint Hills Discovery Center is pleased to bring back Stepping into the Prairie. This one-of-a-kind exhibit uses high-definition projectors, surround sound speakers, and motion sensing devices to create a virtual Flint Hills environment that reacts to guests in the space. The exhibit features the sights and sounds of the tallgrass prairie, digitally recreated to produce an immersive educational experience.
Stepping into the Prairie is funded in part by Kansas Tourism, through the Tourism Attraction Sub-grants for Kansas (TASK), and the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.
Grassland Mini-Golf with Stepping into the Prairie is open during regular hours January 10 through May 10. Regular admission rates apply.

Flint Hills Card Show
2026-01-10 10:30 - 16:00 | Peace Memorial Auditorium, 1101 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
FLINT HILLS CARD SHOW!
Date: January 10th Location: Peace Memorial Auditorium – Manhattan, KS Time: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Cards • Collectibles • Pokémon • Sports • And More!
FREE ENTRY — ALL AGES WELCOME!
Come browse, trade, and find your next great addition.Vendors, collectors, and fans—don’t miss out!

Sunday Funday - Yoga at the Brewery!
2026-01-11 10:30 - 23:30 | Manhattan Brewing Co., 406 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join Autumn and Jayna for a SUNDAY FUNDAY Yoga session at MBC!!! Tickets include a beer or sangria and a beginner session of yoga. Get your Sunday started off the right way with Yoga at the Brewery!

MLK Jr. Day at the Museum of Art + Light
2026-01-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Museum of Art + Light welcomes you for a day of reflection, learning, and community. Explore select galleries for FREE, including our powerful special exhibition:
Crafting Sanctuaries: Black Spaces of the Great Depression South
Step inside evocative photographs that illuminate the meaning of home, refuge, and resilience—then reflect on the people and places that shape our own community today.
Family-Friendly Highlights
Drop-In Youth Activity
Inspired by interior scenes from the exhibition, kids can create their own artistic interpretations of sanctuary and home.
FREE Self-Guided Walking Tour
Pick up a family-friendly guide to the Yuma Street District and discover local sites of historic and cultural significance.
Spend the day honoring Dr. King’s legacy through art, history, and creativity.
Projection Celebration for Student Photography Competition, 5:00-6:00 p.m. Museum Atrium & Parking Lot
Celebrate with the winners of the Youth Digital Photography Competition “Where I Feel the Most Me” Monday, January 19, to see the top three student projections illuminated on the building’s exterior starting at 5:00 p.m. View the “Where I Feel the Most Me” exhibition on a screen in the Gather Lounge, then head outside. The top three competition images, created by students Ava Prichard, Herington High School (1st Place); McKenna Mallean, Manhattan High School (2nd Place); and Anders Benson, Lawrence Free State High School (3rd Place) will be projected nightly after January 19 on the Museum of Art + Light building as part of a rotation of projected images.
Monday, January 19
10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (museum atrium open until 6:00 p.m.)
FREE Galleries on Floors 2 & 3 (Mezmereyz admission applies)

Discovery Day @ Wonder Workshop Children's Museum
2026-01-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum, 506 S 4th Street, Manhattan, 66502, United States
Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum will be open for a Discovery Day to explore his legacy through hands-on, fun and engaging activities!
Who: K-5th grade

When: Monday, Jan 19
Where: Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum, 506 S 4th Street
Cost: $38 for non-members | Scholarships available (email wonder@wonderworkshop.org for details)
Register: https://www.wonderworkshop.org/…/1481-discovery-day.html

Celebrate Kansas Day @ Flint Hills Discovery Center
2026-01-24 10:00 - 14:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Celebrate the sunflower state as you participate in activities, stories, and educational opportunities.
All activities are included with admission.

After Hours Jam Night at Switch Wicked
2026-01-29 19:00 - 22:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us for After Hours Jam Night at Switch Wicked Studios, a chill and beginner-friendly acoustic jam hosted by the Mighty Fine Jam Crew. We’ll have lyrics and chords projected so everyone can follow along, no matter your skill level. Free and open to all ages. Acoustic instruments only, so bring one if you’ve got it.

Winter Warm Up - Hot Sips & Shopping Bliss
2026-01-31 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Rescheduled!!!!
Due to the winter storm for Saturday, Jan 24th – we have rescheduled our Winter Warm up for
Saturday, January 31st!
For a chance to win a $75 gift card to Arrow Bodega, register at any participating shop. Winners will be contacted by email.
Sip, shop, and support local—winter just got cozier downtown. ☕❄️

Participating Businesses –
Fragrant Blends
Mesa Collection Boutique
Alora Boutiques
Manhatchet
The Boutique & Michael & Madge
Rev Thread
Brown’s Shoe Fit
Appleyard Antiques & Upholstery
G Thomas Jewelers
Union Hall
Daughter of Delphi
Switch Wicked
Wildflower Trading Co.
Elevated by Nicole
1419 Mercantile
Dearborn Coffee/Village Geek
G. Marie Designs

Third Annual "Manhattan Seed Swap" Event at the Flint Hills Discovery Center
2026-02-01 13:00 - 16:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
The Manhattan Seed Swap is a free come-and-go event open to the public for the sharing and swapping of saved and leftover seeds before spring planting begins. Seeds of all types are welcome and will be grouped by category. Tables will be setup for vegetables, annual flowers, perennials, native plants, herbs, etc. Seeds can be commercially pre-packaged or harvested and will be available on a first come first serve basis.
New this year! Bring your old gardening books and magazines to swap.
Learn more at https://www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/3504/Manhattan-Seed-Swap

Family Day: Faces, Places, Memories & Home
2026-02-03 11:00 - 15:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Celebrate creativity, storytelling, and the idea of home during this hands-on, family-friendly day inspired by works from Dean Mitchell in Heritage & the Human Condition and Farm Security Administration photographers in Crafting Sanctuaries: Black Spaces of the Great Depression South organized by Art Bridges. Curated by Tamir Williams, Curatorial Associate, with support from Ashley Holland, Curator and Director of Curatorial Initiatives, Isabel Ouweleen, Curatorial Research Assistant, and Javier Rivero Ramos, Assistant Curator.
Kids and families can enjoy:

Interior/Exterior Home Design Station
Collage Self-Portrait Studio
Manhattan Cityscape/Landscape Stamping
Art exploration activities across the immersive exhibition and Fine Art Gallery

+Plus: A special visiting artist workshop (pre-registration required), and family story time hosted by the Manhattan Public Library at the top of every hour.
A full day of creativity, connection, and imaginative play for all ages.
Free with Museum Admission

Annual Non-Profit Community Fair @ MTC
2026-02-07 10:00 - 15:00 | Manhattan Town Center, 100 Manhattan Town Ctr, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Calling All Non-Profit Organizations!

Manhattan Town Center is excited to invite local non-profits to participate in our Annual Community Fair!

This event brings together a wide variety of community members and offers a great tabling opportunity to connect, engage, and share your mission.

Saturday, February 7
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Manhattan Town Center

Need to survey a large group of people?
Looking to recruit volunteers?
Want to educate the MHK community about your organization?

To learn more or register, email admin@manhattantowncenter.com.
Registration deadline: Friday, January 30th

First Saturday Art Market
2026-02-07 11:00 - 15:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us on the first Saturday of every month for the First Saturday Art Market at Switch Wicked Studios! This indoor market showcases local artists working across a variety of styles and mediums—from prints and zines to paintings, handmade goods, and more. With space for up to 15 artists each month, it’s a perfect spot to discover new work, meet creatives, and support the local art scene.
This month’s market will also feature live music from Nirvana Hope.
Want to vend? Apply at the link below to be considered for an upcoming market:https://www.switchwicked.com/art-markets
About Switch Wicked Studios:Switch Wicked Studios is a nonprofit community art space in downtown Manhattan dedicated to supporting local artists through education, collaboration, and creative opportunities. To learn more or donate to help fund future events and grow the creative community in Manhattan, visit switchwicked.com

Saturday Art Market @ SNW Gallery
2026-02-07 11:00 - 15:00 | SNW Gallery, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502
SATURDAY ART MARKET –
at SNW Gallery
11am to 3pm on February 7
First Market of the year! And we are teaming up with Switch Wicked down the road who will be hosting their own market at the same time. Also, Union Hall next door will be hosting their open house, so this is shaping up to be a big party! You can come shop for Valentines Day from our artists, and here is what you can look forward to finding here:
– Dubai chocolates from Elene Shushanian (artist will also have original art and prints)– Original art by Maike Torrez (artist will also have photography, jewelry, and decor)– Jewelry by Kemberly Mills of Lampion Design Studio– Jewelry by Jeanette Hollinger of 3one3 Metal Design– Original art by Audrey Etgen– Vanilla products (extract, sugar, salt and more) by Amy Rintoul of Trufflefaerie– Tibetan Calligraphy by Luke Townsend (artist will also have photography, prints, and cards)– Photography by Reagan Leigh Johnson of RJ Photography– Jewelry by Judy Willingham of Prairie Fire Gems

Open House @ Union Hall
2026-02-07 11:00 - 17:00 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502

9 Ball Pool Tournament @ Fraternal Order of Eagles 2468
2026-02-07 17:00 - 22:00 | Fraternal Order of Eagles 2468, 312 S 4th St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Join us for our monthly 9-ball pool tournament! $10 per person
Over 15 entries will change to 9-ball Scotch-Doubles Cash prize for the top three people/teams.

Drinks & Thinks @Arrow Cocktail Lounge
2026-02-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Drinks & Thinks – FREE event
Thursday, Feb 12 | 7–8:30 PM

Join Melanie Highsmith of the Riley County Historical Society for Riley County Tales of Love and Loss stories of romance, heartbreak, and tragedy from local history.
Sip cocktails as history meets the eerie side of love. Reservation required Drinks & Thinks Feb 12th

Coffee is For Lovers ( and board gamers)
2026-02-14 12:00 - 23:00 | Dearborn Coffee, 105 N 3rd St, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
We’ve got Valentine’s Day down at Dearborn
Couples pay $10 to access our board game library and get one complimentary 12oz coffee each, plus two free special Valentine’s cookies. Play a lovey-dovey game, eat something sweet, and make kissy faces over coffee.
We’ll even decorate.
Pre-register online or just drop by on Valentine’s day!

Little Apple Kids Fest/Powered by Carnival Guy
2026-02-21 10:00 - 15:00 | Manhattan Town Center, 100 Manhattan Town Ctr, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us for the 2nd Annual Little Apple KidsFest | Powered by Carnival Guy
Sneakers Off, Party On!
Coming to Manhattan at the Manhattan Town Center on February 21.
Explore the activity stations, carnival games, fun foods and of course…INFLATABLES. Perfect for young and old!
TICKET INFORMATION:Children’s unlimited play activity wristbands are on sale now at www.kansaskidsfest.com
*Some activities are subject to change based on availability and weather conditions.
THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU:Socks…you need these to play on the inflatablesA smile, because you’re never fully dressed without itSome cash or a credit card for snacks and drinks
STAY UPDATED:Please check your email and visit our website www.kansaskidsfest.com for information regarding the festival:See you soon!
VENDOR INFORMATIONAre you interested in being an exhibitor or sponsor of KidsFest? Please contact Tasty Festivals at hello@tastyfestivals.com

Artist-Led Family Workshop: Landscape Memoryscape
2026-02-21 10:30 - 11:30 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join celebrated visiting artist Dean Mitchell for a special watercolor workshop designed for kids ages 6–12 and their grown-up (one child/one adult) in this meaningful, creative bonding experience is guided by one of today’s leading artists. Together, you will explore personal memories and transform them into expressive landscape paintings.
Please Note:

Youth must be accompanied by one adult
Space is limited—advance registration required

$20 per Parent/Child Unit | Museum Members 10% off
Admission to the Mezmereyz Gallery is not included in the workshop registration fee.

Manhattan Public Library Association Book Sale
2026-02-27 - 2026-03-01 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Event details:

Event: Manhattan Public Library Association Book Sale

Dates & Times:
Friday, February 27: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Exclusive for MLA Members)
Saturday, February 28: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday, March 1: 1:30 PM – 4 PM

Location: Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan KS 66502

Description: Don’t miss the Manhattan Library Association’s Annual Book Sale! Whether you’re hunting for your next great read or building your collection, this is the event for you. Explore a variety of books at unbeatable prices while supporting library programs and services.

Event Links: 2026 MLA Book Sale | Manhattan Public Library
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/173qkMXke7/

Drinks & Thinks @Arrow Cocktail Lounge
2026-03-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Drinks & Thinks – FREE event
Wednesday, Mar 4 | 7-8:30
Sheila Glasper, the founder of SEG Media Collective and co-founder of the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills will present From Vision to Victory: Redesigning Leadership for Every Woman a conversation on bold leadership and purpose.
Reservation required Drinks & Thinks Mar 4th

First Saturday Art Market
2026-03-07 11:00 - 15:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us on Saturday, March 7 from 11 AM – 3 PM for the First Saturday Art Market at Switch Wicked Studios!

This indoor market showcases local artists working across a variety of styles and mediums, from prints and zines to paintings, handmade goods, and more. With space for up to 15 artists each month, it’s the perfect place to discover new work, meet creatives, and support the local art scene right here in Manhattan.

The March 7 market will also feature live music from Grandpa SnazzyManhattan Brewing Company will be serving drinks, and Sisters of Sound is making the move from Aggieville to dodge the Fake Patty’s Day chaos. Come hang out, shop local art and records, and sip on a drink with us
s
Are you a local artist wanting to vend at an upcoming market? Table fees are $20 when you pre-register by Saturday, Feb. 28. After Feb. 28, fees increase to $30. Link below to sign up!
https://www.switchwicked.com/art-markets

Fix & Flourish - Mend it Day
2026-03-14 10:00 - 13:00 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Fix & Flourish – Mend it Day! Saturday, March 14th 10 AM – 1 PM
Join us for a shared day of repair and learning this event is about reducing waste while strengthening community. Bring clothing or fabric items that need a little fixing and give them new life!

Learn to Play:Marvel Crisis Protocol @ Village Geek
2026-03-15 14:30 - 16:30 | The Village Geek, 105 N. 3rd Street, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Learn to Play: Marvel Crisis ProtocolSunday, March 15⋅2:30 – 4:30pm
This is a free event.
Learn to Play Marvel Crisis Protocol, the miniatures skirmish game set in the Marvel universe! Play as your favorite heroes and villains such as Captain America, Black Widow, Green Goblin, or Thanos! Participants will receive a Village Geek Rewards sticker as well as the opportunity to purchase Marvel Crisis Protocol products at a discount. Owner Richard Martin and local gaming enthusiast Ethan Pauls will be hosting this event.

Sunday Jams @ Sinkers Lounge
2026-03-15 17:00 - 20:00 | Sinkers Lounge, 100 Manhattan Town Center, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States

Meet the Makers @ FHDC
2026-03-16 - 2026-03-20 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
This year marks the 11th annual Meet the Makers event! Each day, a local creator, crafter, or maker will present live demonstrations of their work from 10 am to 5 pm in the first-floor atrium of the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Interact with the artists, ask questions, and see their work come to life!
This event is free and open to the public. Those wanting to explore the exhibits beyond the atrium at the Flint Hills Discovery Center must pay the general admission fee.
Schedule:Monday – Sanna Cranmer – handweavingTuesday – Veronica’s Veil – henna body artWednesday – Flint Hills Woodturners – wood turningThursday – Konza Prairie Quilters Guild – quiltingFriday – Cap Rock Inspirations, LLC – fiber arts & ChickaBee Pottery – handcrafted pottery

Music Bingo Night @ Sinkers Lounge
2026-03-18 17:00 - 22:00 | Sinkers Lounge, 100 Manhattan Town Center, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States

Fiddle Jam at Switch Wicked
2026-03-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Switch Wicked Studios is starting up a fiddle jam! Hosted by Derrick Doty, the Fiddle Jam is not just for fiddles. It’s open to all acoustic instruments! It’s also open to all ages and skill levels. Jamming is a great way to improve your skills and build your repertoire. Rather than being genre-specific, like Irish, Bluegrass, Old-Time, etc, we’ll embrace all traditional and contemporary fiddle tunes, with a focus on dance tunes.
Friday, March 20th at 7 PMSwitch Wicked Studios, 413 Poyntz Ave.
