Downtown Manhattan Inc.

Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies at The Flint Hills Discovery Center Exhibit
2025-05-24 - 2025-09-07 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) opens its newest temporary exhibit on Saturday, May 24.
Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies invites visitors to take a rare and exciting look at the life of dinosaurs through their eggs, nests and young.
This remarkable hands-on exhibition includes an amazing collection of dinosaur eggs and nests from all over the globe – including those of each of the major plant and meat-eating dinosaur groups.
Interpretive panels, artwork, informational videos, and more make this exhibit educational and fun for all ages.
Guests can uncover their inner paleontologist through a series of interactive stations including:

Jurassic play land kids area
Dinosaur dress up fun
Real touchable dinosaur fossils
Build-a-bone puzzle
Triceratops sculpture photo-ops

“Bring the whole family to meet the young stars of our new dinosaur exhibit Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies!”, said Stephen Bridenstine, Flint Hills Discovery Center Director. “Kids and parents alike will love this hands-on prehistoric adventure that combines real dinosaur fossils with fun dinosaur dress-up, games, and puzzles. It truly has something for the dinosaur-lover in all of us!”

Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies is developed by Silver Plume Exhibitions, LLC and is made possible through local support from Visit Manhattan Kansas, the Capitol Federal Foundation, and the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.
Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies is open during regular hours from May 24 to September 7, 2025. Regular admission rates apply.

Kids Art with the Beach Museum at Manhattan Public Library
2025-06-11 14:30 - 15:15 (America/Chicago) | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Explore the use of color with a floral-inspired project led by the creative staff from the Beach Museum of Art! Open to kids in K–5th grade as part of our weekly summer series celebrating our colorful world with books, art, and fun activities.

Dock Dogs Little Apple Splash
2025-06-13 - 2025-06-15 | Visit Manhattan, 501 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, Kansas
Ready. Set. SPLASH!
Watch dogs defy gravity and dive into summer at the Dock Dogs Little Apple Splash, June 13–15 in Blue Earth Plaza, Manhattan, KS. Bring your crew and cheer on the pups who bring the wow with every woof.

Third Thursday
2025-06-19 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎉 Get ready for the most fun night of the summer! 🎉 Downtown Manhattan’s Third Thursdays — where art, music, and community take over the streets from May through September! Each month, downtown transforms into a vibrant street fair and maker’s market bursting with creativity.
✨ Join us for an evening full of fun, hands-on activities, and good vibes!Bring your crew — friends, family, kids, and curious minds — and dive into a night of local art, live music, delicious treats, and unforgettable moments.
🎨 What’s in store?
Amazing local artists & makers showing off their talents
Wonder Workshop is back and painting “Kindness” rocks & a community mural
Our ever-popular Paint-by-Number Window — this time, with a pop-art twist featuring an Andy Worhal theme featured piece at The Chef
And a special appearance by Ayoka Lee at our Self Help Station — come say hi, snap a selfie, and get inspired! 🙌✨
Plus, each month brings something new — from the classic Cake Walk to sidewalk musicians and surprise performances. You’ll want to hit every single one!
🕔 It’s all happening from 5–8pm — outside, downtown, and full of energy.Mark your calendar and don’t miss the magic of Third Thursdays!
2025 Third Thursday Remaining Dates
June 19th
July 17th
August 21st
September 18th
October 16th – Final Third Thursday w The Big Little Apple Street Fest!

Business Showcase
Tallgrass Taphouse – Mini Beer Classes, each half hour on the Patio – 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 pm – First come, first serve – approx. 15 min each
Switch Wicked – Open until 8pm.
Finn’s Neighborhood Pub – Drink specials – $12 Domestic 60oz pitchers & $16 Premium 60oz pitchers – Music at 8pm – Kendell Eugine of The Voice
Manhattan Brewing Co – Jammin Jamaican Food Truck at 6pm & Trivia at 7pm
Arrow Cocktail Lounge – Live Jazz @The Lounge – 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Flight Crew Coffee – Open till 8pm
The Boutique – OPEN LATE and Customer Favorite Third Thursday Threads rack outside 75% off!
Furnish – OPEN LATE until 8pm
Fragrant Blends – Special gift with purchase
Brown’s Shoe Fit – Shoe Party featuring New Balance Rep Susan Zinn – A FREE GIFT with any NEW BALANCE purchase (while supplies last) A $15 DOLLAR COUPON given to New Balance purchasing customers for one day only Entry into our NEW BALANCE Raffle (no purchase necessary)
Sunflower Casa – Featuring a special Children’s activity with a progressive mural
Gaia Salon -will feature a fun sensory experience so be sure to step inside!
Texas Roadhouse – back with their crew – Line dancing & games – plus pulled pork Sliders!
Village Geek – Learn to play board games and snag some coffee and merch!
4th Street Open House – Don’t forget to swing around the corner and check out these fantastic businesses!
Therapie – The Pie Cart will be open until 8pm – $1 off pie slices!
River Heights Yarn Co. – Featuring Tim Keane – Cowboy Poet @ 5:30 p & 6:30 p
Revelry Thread Co. – OPEN LATE until 8pm, sale rack on sidewalk with BOGO 50% off
Flint Hills Antiques & Crafts – OPEN LATE until 8pm – 30% off Everything!

Kids Clay Creations
2025-07-09 14:30 - 15:30 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
What can YOU make with a ball of clay and a pair of googly eyes?
Join us July 9 to craft your own animal, creature, or fantastical invention using modeling clay and fun add-ons.

K–5th graders welcome every Wednesday this summer for hands-on fun! https://ow.ly/X7LB50W4jgF

Sunflower Summer in Downtown MHK!
2025-07-12 - 2025-08-03 | Downtown Manhattan
The Sunflower Summer Program is a benefit for Kansas families with school-aged children, pre-K through Grade 12, to encourage them to explore, and fall in love with Kansas. The program is designed to give affordable access to tourism attractions across the state and support the Kansas tourism economy.
Eligible Kansas families will download the Sunflower Summer App to claim digital tickets to participating venues. One (1) adult ticket is eligible for free admission with eligible students. Tickets are redeemed at participating venues upon their arrival. Each user can only use tickets once per venue during the 2025 season. The 2025 Sunflower Summer season will run from July 12 through August 3.
Participating Downtown Attractions!

Third Thursday
2025-07-17 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎉 Get ready for the most fun night of the summer! 🎉 Downtown Manhattan’s Third Thursdays — where art, music, and community take over the streets from May through September! Each month, downtown transforms into a vibrant street fair and maker’s market bursting with creativity.
✨ Join us for an evening full of fun, hands-on activities, and good vibes!Bring your crew — friends, family, kids, and curious minds — and dive into a night of local art, live music, delicious treats, and unforgettable moments.
🎨 What’s in store?
Amazing local artists & makers showing off their talents!
There’s something fresh and exciting every month — from the timeless charm of the Cake Walk to toe-tapping sidewalk musicians and pop-up performances you won’t see coming! You won’t want to miss a single one.
July’s lineup is extra special with TWO live children’s theatre performances by The Actor’s Theatre group and a crowd-pleasing set of bluegrass tunes from the incredible group The Haymakers as well as a special appearance by The Dancing Stew!
Wonder Workshop will return to the Brain Station located at AJ’s platform with finger painting, and a butterfly clothespin project.
We’ll also welcome special guests—the MHS Little Apple Cyborgs and K-State’s Energy Program—featuring fun, interactive robots, gadgets, and educational displays.
Be sure to drop by our Paint by # window featured at Therapie – 106 SW 4th street – featuring Tom Wesselmann’s – “Still life with blowing red curtain”.
🕔 It’s all happening from 5–8pm — outside, downtown, and full of energy.Mark your calendar and don’t miss the magic of Third Thursdays!
2025 Third Thursday Remaining Dates
August 21st
September 18th
October 16th – Final Third Thursday w The Big Little Apple Street Fest!

Business Showcase
Tallgrass Taphouse – Mini Beer Classes, each half hour on the Patio – 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 pm – First come, first serve – approx. 15 min each
Switch Wicked – Open Studios until 8pm
Finn’s Neighborhood Pub – Drink specials – $12 Domestic 60oz pitchers & $16 Premium 60oz pitchers – Music at 8pm – M31
Manhattan Brewing Co – Free Team Trivia with Trivial Zombies and 20% off for Teachers and School Staff
Daughter of Dephi – Open Late – Free 1 card tarot pull.
Arrow Cocktail Lounge – Live Jazz @The Lounge – 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Flight Crew Coffee – Open till 8pm
Elevated – Open till 8pm
The Boutique – OPEN LATE and Customer Favorite Third Thursday Threads rack outside 75% off!
Fragrant Blends – $5 Candles & buy 2 get 1 Free special plus free samples
Brown’s Shoe Fit – End of Summer sandal clearance with Sidewalk DOT sale! – everything is under $100. Largest sale of the season with savings inside and bigger savings outside starting July 17-26th! Product inside will be 20%-50% Off select styles!
Sunflower Casa – Featuring a special Children’s activity with a progressive mural
Gaia Salon -will feature a fun sensory experience so be sure to step inside!
Texas Roadhouse – back with their crew – Line dancing & games
Village Geek – Serving up cold brew and live demonstrations of the game “Squeaky”
4th Street Open House – Don’t forget to swing around the corner and check out these fantastic businesses!
Therapie – Open until 8pm – $1 off pie slices!
River Heights Yarn Co. – Make & Donate table for Purple Paws – Donate both adult Dog & Kitten kibble (or any kibble) also accepting cash donations!
Revelry Thread Co. – OPEN LATE until 8pm, sale rack on sidewalk with BOGO 50% off
Flint Hills Antiques & Crafts – OPEN LATE until 8pm – 30% off Everything!

National Day of the Cowboy at FHDC
2025-07-26 10:00 - 14:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Wrangle up the family and join the Flint Hills Discovery Center for National Day of the Cowboy, an annual celebration of the national icon and the history and culture of the American West. This year’s event is on Saturday, July 26 from 10 am to 2 pm.
Outside, catch a horse-drawn carriage ride (10:30 am to 1:30 pm) and brand a wood block.
Inside the Discovery Center, take a western style photo “in jail”, at the saloon doors, or with our wooden bison calves. Meet rodeo queens, learn to line dance, and participate in fun activities.
“When you think of the Flint Hills, you think of cowboys”, says Jonathan Mertz, Event Supervisor. “Cowboy culture is really part of the larger American culture, and this fun event for all ages allows everyone to put on their cowboy boots and hats and share in that tradition.”
Mayor Karen McCulloh will read a National Day of the Cowboy proclamation at 10:00 am, followed by Cowboy Poetry readings from the winners of the 2025 Kansas Cowboy Poetry contest.
Children’s activities:

“Bull” roping with the Kansas State Rodeo Club and Team
Create a bracelet
Design a paper plate snake
Decorate a cattle cut out
Play cowboy tic-tac-toe, horseshoes, and ring toss
Construct a wagon wheel puzzle

The first 300 children get a free bandana courtesy of Ariat and Vanderbilt’s.
All these activities are included with regular priced admission. The Sunflower Summer app can be used.
There will also be food vendors selling their tasty vittles. Enjoy pulled pork sliders from Texas Roadhouse and snow cones from Rainbow Ice. Purchase Frostop sarsaparilla and root beer in our gift store.
More information about National Day of the Cowboy can be found on the Flint Hills Discovery Center website at www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/cowboy.

Dog Days of Summer Festival
2025-07-26 10:00 - 16:00 | Lil’ Munchkins Childrens Boutique, 100 Town Center Suite 225, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Beat the Heat at the Dog Days of Summer Festival!
Join us for a good time at the Dog Days of Summer Festival inside the old Books-A-Million, Suite 225, at Manhattan Town Center!
Enjoy hands-on kids crafts Shop unique finds from local vendors Snap selfies with special character appearances Chill out and enjoy a day full of summer fun!
Whether you’re here to cool off, explore, or just soak in the good vibes—this is the place to be. Support local, make memories, and celebrate summer—Dog Days style!

The Shape of Summer - Public Event
2025-07-26 11:00 - 15:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Using inspiration from artworks on view in the museum visitors can build their own experience to create cityscapes, landscapes, portraits that remind us of all things summer!
Five hands-on activities (all ages) are included with museum admission: summer haiku, cloudburst cyanotypes, vacation station monoprints, and convertible car or moving bicycle sculpture making. Finally, a free cowboy/rodeo themed portrait drawing activity will be available in the museum atrium! Come one come all. Yeehaw!

Launch Learning Clinic & Open House
2025-08-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Flint Hills Neuropsychology, 530 Poyntz Ave #10, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Event by Flint Hills Neuropsychology

530 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502-6040, United States

Duration: 2 hr

Public · Anyone on or off Facebook

Open House for Launch Learning Clinic on August 1- you know us for our assistance for children with dyslexia, but come and learn about our NEW instructional support for all learners needing a boost!

August & September Art Exhibit - Downtown Manhattan Art Spaces
2025-08-08 - 2025-09-22 | Downtown Manhattan
🎨 Art Exhibit: August & SeptemberCelebrate a season of creativity with the latest exhibit featuring artists Linda Illgner and Caitlin Penny.
Discover a stunning mix of each artist solo works—each piece offering bold perspectives and a rich range of artistic styles.
🖼️ On view starting August 8 through September 30📍 Opening Reception: Friday, August 8 | 5:00–7:00 PMMidtown Plaza – 116 S. 4th Street, Manhattan, KS
Linda Illgner – Papermaker/Collage artist –
Born and raised in western Kansas, Linda Illgner creates intricate collage art using handmade and found paper, thoughtfully torn and layered into rich, textured images inspired by nature. Her journey began 30 years ago with a Girl Scout visit to a paper making studio and grew into a lifelong passion for fiber, texture, and color. Now back in her home state, Linda continues to explore the art of paper, drawing on a life filled with creativity, faith, and family—including her husband, two daughters, their partners, and a new grandchild.

Catlin Penny – Printmaker
Caitlin Penny is a relief printmaker who carves images into wood or linoleum to create prints using a hand-cranked press. Her work explores environmental themes like climate change and animal conservation through a detailed yet whimsical style that invites reflection without intimidation. Penny holds a BFA from Kansas State University and an MFA from Washington University in St. Louis. She lives in Lenexa, KS with her husband and daughter.

Dino Day at Flint Hills Discovery Center
2025-08-09 10:00 - 15:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Roar, Explore, and Create at Dino Day
Saturday, August 9, 10 am to 3 pm at the Flint Hills Discovery Center

Families are invited to step into a world where fun meets fossils during Dino Day at the Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC). From crafting dinos, to digging up ancient “bones” in our fossil pit, solving Jurassic-size puzzles, and stomping into dino games, kids become real-life explorers in a prehistoric playground of imagination and discovery in conjunction with the current temporary exhibit at the FHDC, Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies.
“Dino Day isn’t just a prehistoric party – it’s a way to spark kids’ curiosity and creativity through STEAM learning” says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. “From hands-on fossil exploration to building your own dino creation, every activity is designed to ignite their love of learning. It’s the perfect mix of fun and education that inspires young minds to dig deep!”
Children will engage in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) learning with these fun activities:
Craft a Dino
Creativity runs wild as participants design a unique dinosaur. Pick from a range of options, including diet, speed, and name, to create a one-of-a-kind dino.
T-Rex Puzzle Challenge
Ready to stomp into a jaw-dropping experience? The T-Rex puzzle is a thrilling 5-foot-tall adventure, challenging kids to piece together this mighty dinosaur’s form.
Pterodactyl Puzzle
For a different kind of challenge, take flight with a small Pterodactyl puzzle. Kids will soar through the skies of their imagination as they piece together this winged marvel. It might be small, but it’s tricky to complete.
Become a Paleontologist
The whole family can dig deep into history as they hunt for fossils hidden around the Discovery Center.
All activities are included with admission or an FHDC membership. To learn more, visit www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/dinoday.

Legacy Gallery Open House @ 1880 Beef
2025-08-14 17:00 - 19:00 | 1880 Beef, 900 Poyntz Ave., 66502
You’re invited to our Art Gallery Open House!
Join us August 14th at 1880 Beef as we celebrate local talent, Roger Lanksbury and showcase his stunning work in our Legacy Gallery

900 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS
Thursday, August 14th, 5 to 7 pm

Third Thursday
2025-08-21 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎉 Get ready for the most fun night of the summer! 🎉 Downtown Manhattan’s Third Thursdays — where art, music, and community take over the streets from May through September! Each month, downtown transforms into a vibrant street fair and maker’s market bursting with creativity.
✨ Join us for an evening full of fun, hands-on activities, and good vibes!Bring your crew — friends, family, kids, and curious minds — and dive into a night of local art, live music, delicious treats, and unforgettable moments.
🎨 What’s in store?
Amazing local artists & makers showing off their talents
Wonder Workshop will be back at the Brain Station located on AJ’s Platform with fun kids activities!
Downtown Manhattan Inc. will host a fun Kid’s painting project, The Actor’s Theatre group will return once again with 2 Children’s Theatre performances live & in front of the Wareham!
The music group – JBC will perform live several times through out the event on the east side of Pho’s platform.
🕔 It’s all happening from 5–8pm — outside, downtown, and full of energy.Mark your calendar and don’t miss the magic of Third Thursdays!
2025 Third Thursday Remaining Dates
September 18th
October 16th – Final Third Thursday w The Big Little Apple Street Fest!

Business Showcase
Tallgrass Taphouse – Pint Sized Education, each half hour on the Patio – 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 pm – First come, first serve – approx. 15 min each – Purchase drinks from their platform!
Switch Wicked – Hosting “We Are the Branches” Live music inside!
Finn’s Neighborhood Pub – Drink specials – $12 Domestic 60oz pitchers & $16 Premium 60oz pitchers – Music at 9 pm – Brother Jeb and Tony
Manhattan Brewing Co – Jammin Jamaican Food Truck – 6 pm Team Trivia with Trivial Zombies – 7p – Drinks available on the patio!
Daughter of Dephi – $1 off all Essential Oil products – Free 1 Card Tarot pull – Reiki Chair healing session for $30.00
Flight Crew Coffee – Open till 8pm
Elevated – Open till 8pm
The Boutique – 3rd Thursday Threads – w Women & Children’s Spring/Summer apparel 75% off
Fragrant Blends – Giveaways, open till 8pm
Manhatchet – Open Late
Brown’s Shoe Fit – Open Late til 8 pm
Sunflower Casa – Featuring a special Children’s activity with a progressive mural
Gaia Salon -will feature a fun sensory experience so be sure to step inside!
Texas Roadhouse – back with their crew – Line dancing & games on the SE corner of 4th & Poyntz
Village Geek – Serving up cold brew and live demonstrations
4th Street Open House – Don’t forget to swing around the corner and check out these fantastic businesses!
Therapie – Open until 8pm – $1 off pie slices!
River Heights Yarn Co. – Craft Flea Market Swap/Vendors inside selling supplies & items
Revelry Thread Co. – OPEN LATE until 8pm, sale rack on sidewalk with BOGO 50% off
Flint Hills Antiques & Crafts – OPEN LATE until 8pm – 30% off Everything!

Yuma Street Cultural Festival
2025-08-31 13:00 - 21:00 | Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills, 900 Block of Yma, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
1:00 – 9:00 pm – Sunday, August 31 – 2025
Organized by Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills

900 Block of Yuma Street, Manhattan Kansas
(Centered at 930 Yuma – The Future Home of YSCC)

Music – DJS – Performances – Divine 9 Stroll Off
Boots on the Ground Competition – Prizes
Soul Food – Cultural Chefs – Historical Tours – Vendors
Oral Histories Kids Zone – Storytime – Bounce Houses

Third Thursday
2025-09-18 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
🎉 Downtown Manhattan’s Third Thursdays are back! 🎉The streets come alive with art, music, food, and community—turning downtown into a vibrant street fair and maker’s market filled with creativity.
✨ Bring your crew — friends, family, kids, and curious minds — and dive into an evening of hands-on activities, local flavor, and unforgettable vibes.
🎨 This month’s highlights:

Incredible local artists & makers — including two brand-new featured artists!

Live music, activities, and fun hosted by Switch Wicked, Manhattan Brewing Company, Finn’s, and Tallgrass Taphouse

Wonder Workshop at the Brain Station (AJ’s Platform) with creative kids’ activities

Returning favorites like the Cake Walk, sidewalk musicians, and surprise performances

🕔 When & Where:Thursday • 5–8pm • Right in the heart of Downtown Manhattan
🌟 Each month brings something new — so mark your calendar, gather your people, and come experience the magic of Third Thursdays!🍂 Don’t miss the grand finale of Third Thursdays on October 16th, happening alongside the Big Little Apple Street Festival! This epic night will feature a classic Car Show, Wareham Hall’s Sign Off event, the unforgettable Nordic Thunder Air Guitar Competition, and a high-energy Street Dance with Elton Dan & the Rocket Band. It’s the biggest Third Thursday of the year — and the perfect way to close out the season in style!
Business Showcase
Tallgrass Taphouse – Pint Sized Education, each half hour on the Patio – 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 pm – First come, first serve – approx. 15 min each – Purchase drinks from their platform!
Switch Wicked – Hosting “The Sounds of Many” – Live music inside!
Finn’s Neighborhood Pub – Drink specials – $12 Domestic 60oz pitchers & $16 Premium 60oz pitchers – Music at 8 pm – Mike Greim Live
Manhattan Brewing Co – Oktoberfest Kick Off with the Sound Of Music Sing-A-Long!! Dress up in your favorite Sound of Music costume and get ready to belt out your favorite tunes from the movie! Tapping of the first cask of Festbier with Peter Oppelt – Live Music on the Patio 20% off for Teachers and School Staff
Daughter of Dephi – $1 off all Essential Oil products – Free 1 Card Tarot pull – Reiki Chair healing session for $30.00
Flight Crew Coffee – Open till 8pm
Wareham Hall – Offering a never-before-seen look at the renovation plans alongside historical artifacts and other exhibits that showcase the theatre’s history. Guests can enjoy a complimentary beverage and appetizers while exploring the exhibits.
Elevated – Open till 8pm
The Boutique – 3rd Thursday Threads – 50% – 75% off
Fragrant Blends – Giveaways, open till 8pm
Manhatchet – Open Late
Brown’s Shoe Fit – Open Late til 8 pm
Sunflower Casa – Featuring a special Children’s activity with a progressive mural
Gaia Salon -will feature a fun sensory experience so be sure to step inside!
Texas Roadhouse – back with their crew – Line dancing & games on the SE corner of 4th & Poyntz
Village Geek – Serving up cold brew and live demonstrations
4th Street Open House – Don’t forget to swing around the corner and check out these fantastic businesses!
Therapie – Open until 8pm – $1 off pie slices!
River Heights Yarn Co. – Open Late
Revelry Thread Co. – OPEN LATE until 8pm, sale rack on sidewalk with BOGO 50% off
Flint Hills Antiques & Crafts – OPEN LATE until 8pm – 30% off Everything!

The Sounds of Many - Live at Switch Wicked
2025-09-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
The Sounds of Many make their way back to their original hometown Manhattan KS to perform at Downtown Manhattan’s Third Thursday event live at Switch Wicked on their Ishtar Wears High Heels tour.

Building Buddies at The Flint Hills Discovery Center
2025-09-20 - 2026-01-04 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
GRAB YOUR HARD HAT AND PUT ON YOUR SAFETY VEST!

Plan, renovate, decorate, paint, tile, build, and more at the Flint Hills Discovery Center’s new temporary exhibition, Building Buddies, opening on Saturday, September 20. The Building Buddies exhibition portrays a small community where everyone is busy working on their homes. Different characters, “buddies”, invite young children to play, explore, collaborate, create, and learn while improving the neighborhood.
Grab a helmet and a safety vest to wear throughout the exhibition before you:

Organize and plan a house with Peter the Architect
Help Eva brighten up her bungalow inside and out
Build a doghouse for Winston the Bulldog
Help Pipa Longpipe finish renovating her home
Climb and build with Billy the Brick Layer
Construct a chimney to keep the Walltons safe and warm

“Building Buddies is more than just play—it’s hands-on problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity in action”, says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. “Every paint stroke and block stack introduces kids to the core ideas of STEAM, helping them see how science, technology, engineering, art, and math are all around them. It’s a fun and powerful way to spark curiosity and confidence in the next generation of creators”.
Building Buddies provides an immersive discovery environment that encourages the development of science and process skills at an early age and provides development skills and learning opportunities including large and fine motor skills, imagination and pretend play, logical thinking, and social interaction.
Building Buddies is on display through January 4, 2026. Regular admission rates apply.
Building Buddies was developed by Loodo Exhibits, and touring in partnership with Sciencenter.
Thank you to our sponsors McCownGordon Construction; Tim and Angie Schultz; The Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation; Visit Manhattan; Hamm Foundation; Economy Electric; Bayer Construction and Larson Construction, Inc.; Thermal Comfort Air; BBN Architects, Inc.; and Orazem & Scalora Engineering, P.A.
Learn more at www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/buildingbuddies

Fields & Fountains: Music of Mozart, Bunch and Tchaikovsky
2025-09-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
Sunday, Sept. 21 @ 3:00pm
Fields & Fountains: Music of Mozart, Bunch and Tchaikovsky (Free Concert at Union Hall)
Catch the Season One kickoff concert of Chamber Music Kansas, a new series bringing dynamic and diverse programs to the Manhattan community!

Fields & Fountains: Music of Mozart, Bunch and Tchaikovsky brings together masterful string musicians from around the nation to perform an exciting program of string ensemble music. In this relaxed afternoon event, guests can grab a drink, enjoy the historic beauty of Union Hall, and take a musical journey from the American heartland to the streets of Florence, Italy.

This event is free and open to the public. We are delighted to announce that students from the Manhattan High School Chamber Orchestra will provide pre-concert music starting at 2:30pm.

The BIG Little Apple Street Fest & Final Third Thursday
2025-10-16 16:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Manhattan
The BIG Little Apple Street Fest
October 16th | 4:00 – 9:00 PM | 📍 Downtown Manhattan, KS
Get ready for one unforgettable evening at this Downtown Manhattan street festival that brings together everything we love about life in the Midwest—community, creativity, and connection.
The BIG Little Apple Street Fest takes over three full blocks of our city center with Midwest family fun at every turn. Expect a mix of classic charm —from a vibrant car show, live music, and a street dance, to interactive kids activities such as hopscotch, four square, and more.
With the streets closed and excitement flowing, this Kansas festival is a chance for the whole community to connect, celebrate, and enjoy all the reasons we love where we live. Whether you’re local or just visiting, you’ll find something to smile about here.
🕺 Hit the street dance with – Elton Dan & The Rocket Band
✨ Browse a car show
🎸 Air Guitar Competition – featuring Nordic Thunder!
🥧 Compete in a Pie Eating Contest
🦖 Inflatable 15-Yard Dash & Parade – (Pre-register yourself or group – link below!)
🍔 Grab bites and drinks from your favorite spots in the neighborhood & enjoy the new CCA downtown!
AND all your favorite Third Thursday activities! 🍰
This is more than an event—it’s a full-sensory street fest made for everyone. Expect big energy, vibrant experiences, and the best of the Little Apple.
Special features –Kansas Tatsumaki Yosakoi Japanese Dance Team –

In 2005, Seiji Ikeda founded the Kansas State University Yosakoi Dance group, bringing the Japanese dance style to Kansas and fostering cultural exchange among students. The group competed at the Yosakoi Soran Festival in Japan in 2006 and 2007, earning awards. Now known as Tatsumaki Yosakoi, with teams in Manhattan and Kansas City, the group continues to share Yosakoi’s energy and was named an Official Yosakoi Ambassador by Kochi Prefecture in 2019 for its global cultural contributions.

Beloved Manhattan artist – Jacob Sanderson will be hosting a painting class project inside of Fragrant Blends during the event – Learn to paint your own pet portraiture of a”Sloppy Dog”!

⬇️ Sign up here to compete in the Inflatable Race & Parade ⬇️

Business Showcase
Tallgrass Taphouse – Pint Sized Education, each half hour on the Patio – 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 pm – Purchase drinks from their platform – special drink just for kids!
Switch Wicked – Open Late
Finn’s Neighborhood Pub – Drink specials – $12 Domestic 60oz pitchers & $16 Premium 60oz pitchers –
Manhattan Brewing Co – Featuring Jamin Jamaican Food truck
Daughter of Dephi – Open Late
Flight Crew Coffee – Open Late
Wareham Hall – featuring Nordic Thunder Air Guitar competition & Wareham Hall “Sign Off” event
J & C Imaging – Hosting Inflatable Suit Race & Parade – 4:45 pm
Elevated – Open Late
The Boutique – 3rd Thursday Threads – 50% – 75% off
Fragrant Blends – Featuring Artist, Jacob Sanderson w Live Painting lessons
Manhatchet – Featuring Mobile Unit outside
Brown’s Shoe Fit – UGG Shoe Party, Giveaway chance to win a pair of UGG’s & free cleaning kit to 1st 10 paying customers
Sunflower Casa – Featuring a special Children’s activity with a progressive mural
Gaia Salon -will feature a fun sensory experience so be sure to step inside!
Texas Roadhouse – back with their crew – Line dancing & games on the SE corner of 4th & Poyntz
Village Geek – Serving up cold brew and live demonstrations
4th Street Open House – Don’t forget to swing around the corner and check out these fantastic businesses!
Therapie – Hosting Pie Eating contest at 6:45 pm – $1 off pie slices!
River Heights Yarn Co. – Open Late
Revelry Thread Co. – OPEN LATE until 8pm, sale rack on sidewalk with BOGO 50% off
Tropical Sno – Kids 12 & under 1/2 priced Shaved Ice
Flint Hills Antiques & Crafts – OPEN LATE until 8pm – 30% off Everything!

The Sign Off & Air Guitar Competition @ Wareham Hall
2025-10-16 16:00 - 21:00 | Wareham Hall, 410 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502, United States
On the final Third Thursday, we’re opening our doors to the public one last time before construction begins. The event will feature our memory collection activities, giving guests the chance to record personal stories in a video or audio diary and sign the historic stage!
If you were unable to attend the Renovation Showcase, our exhibits highlighting the building’s history and updated renderings will be displayed throughout the theater.
The celebration also includes the return of Nordic Thunder, who will host an epic air guitar competition right outside our doors on Poyntz Ave at 5:30 PM.
Please share this event with your friends and family—we want to collect as many stories as possible!
And if you or someone you know has artifacts from the theater and would like to donate them to Wareham Hall, they can bring them to the event or contact staff at info@warehamhall.org or 785-775-1880.

We hope you join us and help spread the word!

Builders Bash @ Flint Hills Discovery Center
2025-10-18 10:00 - 15:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join us for a hands-on celebration of all things building, construction, and design –
indoors and out! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, future engineer, or just curious about
how spaces come to life, this event is packed with inspiration, innovation, and
interactive fun!
Date, Time, and Location
Saturday, October 18
10 am to 3 pm
Inside and outside the Discovery Center
Kids of all ages will enjoy:
Seeing and touching different types of trucks and construction equipment
Construction site; play area
Building a toolbox
Beehive construction
Engineering and building “Boxhattan”
Giveaway of the book What We Build by Oliver Jeffers to the first 300 youth in attendance
Tool belt giveaway (while supplies last) and more!
Cost
FREE youth admission

Trick or Treat @ HyVee
2025-10-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Hy-Vee, 601 3rd Place, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls unite!
Trick or Treat at Hy-Vee is Saturday from 10am-1pm.
Costumes encouraged for a frightfully fun time!

All Treats Day in Downtown Manhattan
2025-10-31 16:00 - 18:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Join us for All Treats Day in Downtown on Friday, October 31st, from 4 PM to 6 PM!
Families are invited to stroll down Poyntz Avenue, where kids can safely trick-or-treat at participating neighborhood businesses. Come in costume and enjoy a fun, family-friendly Halloween experience in the heart of our community!
Don’t forget the annual Boo Party from 4-6pm at the Manhattan Town Center!

Trunk or Treat at Blue Earth Plaza
2025-10-31 18:00 - 20:00 | Hilton Garden Inn, 410 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Come join the community by Blue Earth Plaza for the Trunk or Treat Event!

This event is held by the Hilton Garden Inn, and supported by businesses around the Blue Earth Plaza.

It will be on Halloween, October 31st, from 6pm to 8pm!

Bubbles the Frog Wizard Birthday Bash
2025-10-31 19:00 - 21:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Are you ready to celebrate Bubbles the Frog Wizard’s Birthday?

The Frog Wizard Concert Series with @wildcat919fm featuring live music from @krysis.band and @fantishow starting at 7
Costume contest — winners announced at 8
Coloring pages, new merch drops, and exclusive deals all day!

@downtownmhk all treats day from 4-6

Drinks from @manhattanbrewing during the show

Free & all ages — don’t miss it!

Frog Wizard photo: @garage_crycore

Soulful Noise: Celebrating Together through Song and Sustenance
2025-11-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join MoA+L for a free chorale performance featuring varied community and congregational choirs for a one-hour performance celebrating, home, sanctuary, community and gathering together (as inspired by themes present in the exhibition, Crafting Sanctuaries: Black Spaces of the Great Depression South Following the performance, will be access to locally owned food trucks. This event is presented in collaboration with the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) and Yuma Street Cultural Center (YSCC) with support of the interfaith community of communities.
Museum of Art + Light, museum atrium and Gather Together Lounge (first floor)
November 2nd – 4:00 – 6:00 pm (Free)

Veteran's Day Parade
2025-11-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Flint Hills Veterans Coalition
Veterans Day Parade
While many realize that Veterans Day, which always falls on November 11, is a day to honor our Veterans, few realize the historical significance behind the day.Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day and marked the end of hostilities of World War I that occurred at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month. Therefore, the day is always recognized on November 11th, regardless of the day of the week the 11th In 1919. President Wilson commemorated the first Armistice Day with these words:
“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…”
The day was originally set aside to honor the Veterans of World War I with a day of parades and remembrances as well as a pause in activities at 11am.
The Veterans Day parade held in Manhattan is our State’s largest celebration of service. It is sponsored by the Flint Hills Veterans Coalition offering the public the opportunity to show their support for those who serve on our nation’s most visible stage. To conduct the parade the Flint Hills Veterans Coalition works in partnership with the Kansas State Army ROTC, Ft. Riley, USO, and other organizations. We are thankful for the tremendous support of those who participate and those who donate to honor those who have given so much.

Register TODAY for the Flint Hills Veterans Day Parade 2025. https://flinthillsveterans.org/ for registration information and form.
Vehicles, floats, walking groups, if you are a patriot – we want you to join us! Parade participation is absolutely FREE. .

Unicorn Dreams @ Wonder Workshop
2025-11-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum, 506 S 4th Street, Manhattan, 66502, United States
We are excited to launch a new experience for children and families! Our Teen Mentors are hard at work creating activities and experiences that will make your Saturday mornings a little more magical!

Drop in this Saturday for Unicorn Dreams anytime between 10:30am-12pm. In addition to unicorn activities, your $5 admission includes open free play throughout the museum!

Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum
506 S 4th Street, Manhattan KS
www.wonderworkshop.org
