Third Annual "Manhattan Seed Swap" Event at the Flint Hills Discovery Center
2026-02-01 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | 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, 2026-03-25 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.

Downtown Parade of Quilts
2026-03-21 - 2026-04-04 | Downtown Manhattan
Quilts: 250 years of an American Artform – presented by Konza Prairie Quilters’ Guild
In recognition of 2026 National Quilting Day, you are invited to join the Konza Prairie Quilters’ Guild at the Downtown Parade of Quilts.
When: March 21st – April 4th
Where:Participating Downtown Businesses in Downtown Manhattan, KS. (List coming soon)
Explore Downtown and enjoy beautiful quilts on display in participating businesses! Pick up a Scavenger Hunt Form at any participating shop, match the quilts to their locations, and submit your completed form at any participating business for a chance to win.
Prizes: Winners will receive a $25 gift certificate to use at one of the participating businesses. Eight winners will be notified by phone or email on the Monday following the end of the parade.
Happy Hunting!

Plant Bingo @ Arrow Cocktail Lounge
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:30 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join Arrow Cocktail Lounge and Kistner’s Flowers for a night of bingo and cocktails. Play bingo and win plants!

Comedy Improv Workshop w Yellow Brick Improv @ MHK Public Library
2026-04-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us for our Comedy Improv Workshops—happening every two weeks at the library!
Our next session is April 2 at 7 PM. These workshops are open to the public, and everyone is welcome—whether you want to jump in and participate or just sit back and enjoy the fun.
Come laugh, connect, and experience the creativity of improv!
https://www.facebook.com/yellowbrickimprov
Call Benedict Dabrowski @ 708-614-7295 for more info.

Downtown Manhattan Art Exhibition - Reception & Artist Panel
2026-04-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
✨ Opening New Art Exhibit – Downtown Manhattan! ✨
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating creativity and community on Saturday, April 4th from 5–7 pm
Showcasing artwork in both Downtown Art Spaces — 409 Poyntz and Midtown Plaza at 116 S 4th St begining April 4th – May 29th.
Experience a vibrant showcase of artwork by talented local and regional artists, featuring Elene Shushanian and members from the Columbian Artist Group, with a wide variety of styles and mediums that reflect the heart of our downtown arts scene.
Enjoy the opening reception, meet the artists, and attend the Artist Panel Discussion at 6:00 pm on Saturday, April 4th, where creators will share insights into their work and artistic process.
Come be part of the energy and artistry that continues to make Downtown Manhattan a cultural destination!
Elene Shushanian – Experience Elene Shushanian’s “functional masterpieces” at Midtown Art Space (116 S. 4th Street). Discover vibrant vinyl record clocks and nature-inspired art where sophisticated color theory meets everyday utility. Don’t miss it!

Columbian Artist Group participants – Pablo Diaz Carballo, Susie Graber, Linda Illgner, Susie Lunas, Andrea Goins, Kellie Dillinger, Shawn White, Lana Ellis, Carolyn Baugh, Patricia Adams, April Spicer, Deb Hanes-Nelson, Jenny Tucker O’Konski, Ginny Young, Alicia Firstbrook-Stott, Bobby Bombeck, Devi Rathoud, & Deb Hanes-Nelson

Downtown Manhattan Spring Art Walk
2026-04-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎨✨ Downtown Art Walk is Back! ✨🎨
Join us for an evening of creativity, community, and local talent at our Art Walk on
📅 Saturday, April 4th
🕔 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 Participating Downtown Businesses
Stroll through downtown, explore unique spaces, and experience incredible artwork from talented area artists—all in one night!
🗺️ Pick up your Art Walk map at any participating business and make sure you don’t miss a stop!
🎉 Bonus! This exciting evening also coincides with our new Art Opening Exhibition & Reception at Midtown Plaza (116 S 4th St), featuring artist Elene Shushanian, along with the Columbian Artist Group showcasing their work at our 409 Art Space—be sure to check it out!
👩‍🎨 Featured Artists Include:
• Teairra Harris – Corset Art📍 Appleyard Antiques & Upholstery
• Audrey Winter – Traditional, Realistic & Imaginative Works📍 1419 Mercantile
• Kaye Gilbert – Abstract Realism📍 Flight Crew Coffee
• Maike Torrez – Nature & Wildlife Photography📍 Fragrant Blends Candle Bar
• Fernando Torrez – Wood Furniture Maker📍 Manhattan Brewing Company
✨ Come out, explore, and support local art!
Bring your friends, enjoy the atmosphere, and discover something new around every corner.

Arrow Sustainability Series - Top Swap
2026-04-11 10:00 - 13:00 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Refresh your wardrobe the sustainable way Bring a top—shirt, jacket, blazer (one or a few) and swap it for something new-to-you. Come share, trade, and give clothes a second life as part of our Sustainability Series. Help reduce waste and extend the life of clothing.How it works:1. Clean out your closet look for any kind of top-shirt, jacket, blazer etc.2. Make sure items are clean and ready for a new home.3. Bring them to the swap4. Browse and take home whatever works for you!Leftover items will be upcycled, saved for future swaps, or donated.

Spring Open House in Downtown Manhattan!
2026-04-11 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Spring Open House is back and we are SO ready for it! Join us Saturday, April 11th during business hours for a day of deals, refreshments, and good vibes all across the neighborhood. Last year 18 of our downtown shops open their doors with hot spring deals, and this year is shaping up to be just as good.
*this list is ongoing and will be updated*
Participating Businesses: The Boutique – an additional 50% off Sale items & light refreshments Michael & Madge – an additional 50% off Sale items. Fragrant Blends Candle Bar – Buy 2, Get 1 Free on all Ready Made products Elevated by Nicole – 20% off a regular priced purchase Rev Thread – Refreshments all day, free game day button with purchase (while supplies last) and a permanent jewelry pop-up in store from 10-2. Furnish – 20% off of accessories with in-store specials MOA&L – Enjoy 20% off in the Museum Store at the Museum of Art + Light in celebration of the Spring Open House. Discount excludes consignment items. Mesa & Alora Boutiques – Spring into the season at Mesa and Alora Boutiques! Shop new arrivals at 411 Poyntz & 409 Poyntz! Appleyard Antiques – 15% off everything and enjoy drinks & nibbles! 1419 Mercantile – 20% off store wide discount and refreshments. Gatherings at 3 Thirteen – Refresh your space for the season—visit us to explore all our new spring home décor! Daughter of Delphi – Archangel Reading for $20.00. All Archangel oils and bracelets 10% off. G. Marie Home Designs – Let us help get your home ready for spring with “transformation without renovation” packages! Save $50 if booked before April 15! Text: OPENHOUSE to 785-345-3190 Brown’s Shoe Fit – Step into savings with our wide selection of footwear for men and women with your favorite brands: Hoka, Brooks, Ugg, Birkenstock, New Balance, Born, Taos, Brunt, Gola and more!– Enjoy 15% OFF STOREWIDE, ONE DAY ONLY! G. Thomas Jewelers open 10-4 featuring grab and go flower bouquets ranging from $10-$30.00 Glo Spa – Shop our NEW Spring/Summer Collection of Voluspa Candles; 50% off select retail items

Pink Up the Pace 5K & Honor Walk
2026-04-18 08:00 - 11:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Pink Up the Pace is Downtown’s annual run for breast cancer research.
The proceeds from the race go to the Johnson Cancer Research Center. The race route begins in front of AJ’s Pizzeria and travels west on Poyntz Avenue, turning at the Manhattan High School and returning to the starting gate.
This year’s race will be April 18th, 2026 at 8:00am. There will be 3 male and 3 female winners in each age division, as well as two overall winners. Medals are awarded after the race.
You can sign up to run the 5k or the One Mile Honor Walk. Packets can be picked up at Manhattan Running Company before the race or on race day at 7:00am in downtown Manhattan.
You are able to register through this link – to run or walk with us!

Stars and Shadows: Chamber Music Kansas Presents The Goodnow Trio
2026-04-18 16:00 - 17:00 | Chamber Music Kansas, Manhattan, Kansas, United States
Price: free and open to all
Date: Saturday April 18th at 4 PM
Location: Manhattan Presbyterian Church (530 Poyntz Avenue)

Description: Join us for a free chamber music concert performed by The Goodnow Trio (Madeleine Jansen, violin, Syneva Colle Hernandez, cello, Alfonso Hernandez, piano) in Manhattan, KS featuring works by Astor Piazzolla, Dmitri Shostakovich, and Alexandre Ouzounoff.
From the tango-inspired energy of Four Seasons of Buenos Aires to the haunting intensity of Shostakovich’s Piano Trio in E minor, this program offers a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
Chambermusickansas.com
