Artist-Led Family Workshop: Landscape Memoryscape
2026-02-21 10:30 - 11:30 (America/Chicago) | 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
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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

After Hours Jam Night @ Switch Wicked
2026-04-23 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.

Mother's Day Brunch @ Arrow Cocktail Lounge
2026-05-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Celebrate your mother figure with us this year!
We’ll be offering a family style brunch menu included in the price of tickets. Coffee, tea, wine and brunch cocktails will be available for purchase

Event details – Sunday, May 10, 2026 – 10:00 AM

Starting at $38 per ticket – https://www.exploretock.com/arrow-cocktail-lounge-manhattan/event/607076?size=1&utm_source=sqmktg_email

Arrow Cocktail Lounge
418 Poyntz Ave
Manhattan, KS 66502

Third Thursday in Downtown MHK
2026-05-21 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎉 A New Year of Third Thursdays Begins in Downtown! 🎉
Third Thursdays are back in Downtown Manhattan, bringing fresh energy, creativity, and connection to the streets. Each month, downtown transforms into a lively, family-friendly celebration of the arts—featuring live performances, artist demonstrations, hands-on activities, and a vibrant maker’s market atmosphere.
🕔 When & Where:May 21st – 5 – 8 pm – Right in the heart of Downtown Manhattan – 300 & 400 Sidewalks along Poyntz Ave & along North & South 4th Street
🎨 Highlights include:• Discover incredible local talent — pottery, leather artisans, woodturners, visual artists, live music performers, and so much more!• Wonder Workshop at the Brain Station (AJ’s Platform) with creative activities for kids

City of Manhattan presents a Touch-A-Truck event on N 4th Street, along with a Children’s Mural Project honoring Juneteenth. Join us for a family-friendly celebration featuring hands-on experiences and community creativity.

Business Highlights –
Brown’s Shoe Fit – Birkenstock Shoe Party, to kick off summer! We will be giving away a free pair of Birkenstocks. Every Birkenstock purchasing customer will get a free gift with purchase. Plus, we have brought in new styles, sizes, and more colors for the event!
Revelry Thread CO. – BOGO FREE Sale Racks
Finn’s Pub – 60oz Pitchers on Special & Grateful Dudes Live from 8-10pm
The Boutique – Third Thursday sales Rack – special discounts!
Caravan Antiques & Claflin Books – Open for Third Thursdays!
SNW Gallery – Third Thursday Art Market
🌟 Every Third Thursday offers something new to discover. Mark your calendar, gather your people, and join us as downtown comes alive—again and again.

SAVE THE DATES – 2026 Third Thursday Dates:

June 18th
July 16th – Featuring the Little Firecracker Kids Parade!
August 20th
September 17th

More Good Days - A Community Art Show
2026-05-21 17:00 - 20:00 | Pawnee Mental Health, 116 S 4th St, Manhattan, KS, 66505, United States

Closing Reception - Midtown Art Space featuring Elene Shushanian
2026-05-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Join us for a final closing reception hosted by featured artist Elene Shushanian on Saturday, May 23rd from 5–7 pm
Experience Elene’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.
Light refreshments will be served – Don’t miss it!
20% of all sales will be donated to Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills.

StoryWalk Downtown 2026
2026-05-26 - 2026-08-31 | Downtown Manhattan
StoryWalk Downtown is here!

In partnership with the Manhattan Public Library, we are proud to bring When Dinosaurs Came With Everything by Elise Broach to our business windows. Grab your littles and explore the world of dinosaurs starting at the library and wandering through our neighborhood. Complete the StoryWalk and return to MPL to claim your rainbow scratch dinosaur!

When Dinosaurs Came With Everything will be up through June. How to Make Cherry Pie and See the U.S.A. by Marjorie Priceman will go up in celebration of 250 years of the U.S. July through August. You won’t want to miss either story!

Movies in the Park: Jurassic Park
2026-05-29 19:30 - 22:00 | Blue Earth Plaza, Colorado St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join Manhattan Parks and Recreation for this free movie night on May 29 at 7:30 p.m. at Blue Earth Plaza.
If you’ve been exploring the Flint Hills Discovery Center’s Roar and Explore Dinosaur exhibit, this is the perfect way to keep the dinosaur adventure going.
Beer, wine, and punch will be available for purchase from Manhattan Brewing Company. No outside alcohol is allowed.
Hold onto your butts and join us for a dino-sized night of fun!
About the movie:Released: 1993Rating: PG-13Length: 127 minutes
Parents should be advised the film contains mild language and intense themes that may not be appropriate for all audiences. For more details visit www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/jurassic-park

FAMILY DAY: PICASSO ON THE PRAIRIE @ MOA&L
2026-06-06 11:00 - 15:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
FAMILY DAY: PICASSO ON THE PRAIRIE
Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 11 AM – 3 PM

Celebrate National Prairie Day with hands-on art activities inspired by Pablo Picasso.
Create side-by-side, explore galleries together, and discover how creativity can spark curiosity, conversation, and connection across generations.

Family Day is made possible with support from the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.

Admission to Picasso: Art in Motion immersive exhibition may be purchased separately as an optional paid add-on experience.

Downtown Manhattan Art Exhibition & Reception
2026-06-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
✨ Opening New Art Exhibit – Downtown Manhattan! ✨Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating creativity and community –
Saturday, June 6th at the Midtown Plaza (116 S 4th Street )from 5–7 pm featuring Artists from the Manhattan Watercolor Group.
Featured artists – Cheri Graham, Chris Beardsley, Julie Slagle, Deanne Burris, Kathleen Jones, Robert L. Hubbard, Gayle Doll, Elene Shushanian, Jo Fey, Graham C. Rose, Carol Wilds, Robert Hostetter, Deb Hanes-Nelson,Terry Mulhern, Deborah Umscheid & Diane Heptig
Perhaps one of Northeast/North central Kansas’ best known and respected art groups. This open studio concerns itself with helping various levels of artists grow and develop their art.
From the novice to the advanced artist, this group meets every Wednesday from 9:00 am – to 12:00 pm at the Keats City Park building. You will find a warm, inviting atmosphere with other artists who know how to deliver thoughtful, kind and honest critiques.
During Studio time we work on our Art, discuss ideas for art, have a small business meeting, and have open critiques. In late fall, winter and early spring, we serve lunch and have fellowship, while continuing to work on our projects. The group offers one, two, or three day workshops by well known artists from all over the United States each year. Our studio is involved in exhibiting in many places in the Manhattan area.
Everyone who has an interest in Art and who works in a “Water Medium”, may join this open studio. While at the same time meet people with a common interest.

Youth Comedy Improv Workshop @MHK Public Library (Ages 6 - 11)
2026-06-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Hosted by Yellow Brick Improv
GROESBECK ROOM
Bringing the comedy improv practice and participation to the youth group of Manhattan. Watch your kids enjoy a theatrical performance experience, socialize, and develop quick thinking skills. And have fun and laugh!
