Downtown Manhattan Inc.

Author Visit: How to Write a Mystery
2024-10-18 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Author Visit: How to Write a Mystery
October 18, 6-7:30pm
Manhattan Public Library | Groesbeck Meeting Room, 2nd Floor | 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan KS, 66502
Unlock the secrets of crafting a gripping mystery with guidance from seasoned author Steven Miller, also known by his pen name, Steven J. Kolbe. Best known for his acclaimed novel How Everything Turns Away, Miller has mastered the art of weaving suspense, intrigue, and surprise into his work. In this special event, he will share his insights into the mystery writing process, from plotting and character development to the essential steps for getting your story published.
Whether you’re a budding writer or simply a fan of the genre, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade directly from an experienced author. Attendees will gain practical writing techniques, explore the structure of mystery novels, and receive valuable advice on how to navigate the publishing world.
Join us on October 18th at 6:00 PM in the library for an inspiring and educational evening. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or looking to hone your skills, this event is designed to equip you with the tools you need to create your own mystery masterpiece. No registration is required—just bring your passion for storytelling and a desire to learn!
Author Visit: How to Write a Mystery

Thundering Cats Big Band at Union Hall
2024-10-17 19:00 - 21:30 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
October 17, 2024 · 7pm & 8:30pm
The Thundering Cats Big Band was founded in Manhattan, Kansas in 2009. Directed by Dr. Frederick Burrack, its members consist of local musicians from all walks of life — including Union Hall Jazz Series host Nate McClendon. The musicians in the band are thrilled to keep big band music alive in the ears of the region’s music lovers!
Taking full advantage of Union Hall’s dynamic, open, multi-level space, paying guests can watch the gig in the Keller’s Ballroom on the second floor or hang out in the Atrium on the main level and listen for free. Seating in Keller’s Ballroom is limited.
Tickets: $10 through Eventbritehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/927621690447
There will be a cashless bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Food will also be available for purchase.
www.unionhallmhk.com

Book Discussion: The Maltese Falcon
2024-10-17 18:30 - 19:30 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Book Discussion: The Maltese Falcon
October 17, 6:30-7:30pm
Registration Required

Manhattan Public Library | Auditorium, 2nd Floor | 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan KS, 66502
Join us this fall as we dive into The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett a timeless classic in the mystery genre that will ignite the detective within you. Set against a backdrop of suspense and intrigue this novel is the perfect companion for the crisp autumn evenings. Whether you’re a fan of classic detective fiction or just looking to explore a new literary adventure this book discussion promises to be a thrilling experience.
We have a limited number of copies available for participants which can be picked up starting September 23 at the library’s reference desk. Don’t miss your chance to get your hands on a copy before they run out! The book discussion will take place in the library auditorium on October 17 at 6:30 PM where we’ll delve into the characters plot twists and the enduring legacy of this iconic novel.
Spaces are limited so registration is required. Whether you’ve read The Maltese Falcon before or are discovering it for the first time we look forward to an engaging and lively discussion.

Third Thursday: October
2024-10-17 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
On the Third Thursday of each month from May to October, downtown transforms into a street faire and maker’s market.
You’ll want to come to each one as you won’t want to miss activities unique to each date! Don’t miss our Third Thursday staples like the Cake Walk, our sidewalk musicians, and variety of maker’s booths.Each Third Thursday has a special feature!

We’re wrapping up the season’s final Third Thursday with Big Air and big energy!
Big Air in The Little Apple returns for our last street festival of the season, featuring an electrifying air guitar showdown hosted by Nordic Thunder! Join the fun on October 17th at 5:30 PM in front of Finn’s Neighborhood Pub!

Think you’ve got what it takes to rock the stage? It’s free to enter and everyone’s welcome!
Sign up here!

For the last Third Thursday of the year, we close down the street and create a Common Consumption Area where you can grab a drink and wander the street!

Community Conversation on Trust and AI
2024-10-15 19:00 - 20:00 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Community Conversation on Trust and AI, presented by K-State AI Symposium
Time: 7-8pm
Venue: Manhattan Public Library | Auditorium, 2nd Floor | 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan KS, 66502
Organizer: Manhattan Public Library
Description: K-State AI Symposium presentation
Manhattanites, what are your concerns, hopes and questions about how AI will be integrated in our society? This is an opportunity to learn about and experience new AI developments, discuss ethical issues, and consider whether or not AI is trustworthy.
This is a town-hall style meeting where the community can engage with scholars and ask questions related to AI. The 7 person panel will discuss the topic of trusting artificial intelligence. Audience members are encouraged to ask questions and voice their thoughts.
Panelists: Alice Anderson, Jason Coleman, Kevin Gaugler, Bruce Glymour, Janna Hastings, Pascal Hitzler, and Cody Wassenberg
Community Conversation on Trust and AI | Manhattan Public Library

Freak in the Sheets: A Cabaret Parody
2024-10-14 18:00 - 19:30, 2024-10-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Arrow Cocktail Lounge, 418 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Halloween is around the corner!

Bring your best girl or your boo to a funny show at Arrow Cocktail Lounge presented be Little Apple Pilates Co.

*This is adult humor but no nudity at all.*

Two nights possible:
Sunday October 13th 6pm-715pm ish
Monday October 14th 6pm-715pm ish
The show sold out last time so grab your tickets now
Arrow Cocktail Lounge will be whipping up top notch cocktails!
You can reserve your spot on our website at www.littleapplepilates.com
Downtown businesses have donated prizes to be awarded during the show!

Costume contest: prizes available for those who dress up in their favorite persona

50th Annual Pumpkin Patch Arts and Crafts Fair
2024-10-12 09:00 - 17:00 | Manhattan Town Center, 100 Manhattan Town Ctr, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Join the women of the Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi as they host the 50th Annual Pumpkin Patch Arts and Crafts Fair. The event is benefitting the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Wichita. This year’s fair will be located on Poyntz Avenue in Downtown Manhattan and inside the Manhattan Town Center. Vendors will feature a variety of handmade, homemade, and refurbished goods and artistry.

The proceeds made from the 50th Annual Pumpkin Patch Arts and Craft Fair will be supporting Ronald McDonal House Charities in Wichita, Kansas. Please consider making a donation to this great cause that supports so many families.

Estrellita: Music of Mexican Composers
2024-10-06 16:00 - 17:30 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
Cellist Syneva Colle (K-State Faculty) and pianist Alfonso Hernández invite you on a musical journey across the southern border! Experience the works of gifted and underrepresented composers from Mexico, both past and present. This colorful program draws on the romantic melodies of Manuel Ponce, the jazz-inspired rhythmic energy of Samuel Zyman, unusual soundscapes conjured by Mario Lavista, and the fiery dance music of Arturo Márquez.
This event is free and open to the public.
www.synevacollemusic.comwww.unionhallmhk.com
***ABOUT SYNEVA COLLE:Dr. Syneva Colle is a cellist, composer and educator who divides her energies between the worlds of classical and popular music. She is the newly appointed Teaching Assistant Professor of Cello and String Education at K-State.
ABOUT ALFONSO HERNÁNDEZ:Dr. Alfonso Hernández is a passionate musician and arts advocate, praised as “one of the best Guatemalan pianists today, thanks to his energy, precision, and delicacy” (Prensa Libre, Guatemala).

Block Print Party
2024-10-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
This event is free and open to the public!
Downtown Manhattan is bringing the world of printmaking to Poyntz Ave in collaboration with the Kansas State University Printmaking Department and the MAPC 2024 Printmaking Conference, “From the Ashes.”
K-State has partnered with Downtown to host an evening of art and printmaking, open to the public, aside from the ticketed conference events. Join us for a unique art experience featuring local and national artists, interactive printmaking demos, and a street shutdown for our Block Print Party!
A sneak peak into our Block Print Party:
Art Exhibits from featuring works from students in Printmaking Clubs at Kansas State University, Emporia State University, and Wichita State University. A poetry reading at Flight Crew Coffee An Art Scavenger Hunt throughout all of Downtown& MORE!
Learn more about the conference and our community event on our website: https://www.downtownmhkart.com/printmaking-conf

Donuts & Danger Book Club
2024-09-26 18:30 - 19:30 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Donuts & Danger Book Club
September 26, 6:30-7:30pm
Auditorium Room, 2nd Floor | 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan KS, 66502
Indulge in delicious Varsity Donuts while connecting with fellow book lovers at our relaxed and engaging book discussion event! Whether you’re captivated by true crime, hooked on mystery, intrigued by murder mysteries, or love the thrill of suspense, this is the perfect gathering for you. Bring any book from these popular genres to share with the group and enjoy lively conversations, insightful opinions, and great recommendations from other readers. As a bonus, we’ll be holding a free book drawing at each session, giving participants the chance to take home a new addition to their reading list. Registration is suggested but not required to attend. However, those who register will receive an email reminder about the event to make sure you don’t miss out. Come for the donuts, stay for the discussion, and leave with new book recommendations and a community of fellow enthusiasts! We look forward to seeing you there!
Website Link: Donuts & Danger Book Club

Michael T. Brown Trio at Union Hall
2024-09-19 19:00 - 21:30 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
September 19, 2024 · 7pm & 8:30pm
In addition to being a key player in Union Hall Jazz Series host Nate McClendon’s Jazz Quartet, as well as a member of the Thundering Cats Big Band, bassist Michael T Brown has his own trio — who must have some serious chops to keep up with those flying fingers of his!
Taking full advantage of Union Hall’s dynamic, open, multi-level space, paying guests can watch the gig in the Keller’s Ballroom on the second floor or hang out in the Atrium on the main level and listen for free. Seating in Keller’s Ballroom is limited.
There will be a cashless bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Food will also be available for purchase.

Third Thursday: September
2024-09-19 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
On the Third Thursday of each month from May to October, downtown transforms into a street faire and maker’s market.You’ll want to come to each one as you won’t want to miss activities unique to each date! Don’t miss our Third Thursday staples like the Cake Walk, our sidewalk musicians, and variety of maker’s booths.Each Third Thursday has a special feature!This month is Come Together, featuring a community art project, corn hole area and mega games, walking history tours, and DIY mini sculpture area.

Vintage Movie Night @ The Manhattan Public Library
2024-09-14 14:30 - 17:00 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Here’s looking at you, kid! Come and spend an afternoon in the 1940s watching the award winning film, Casablanca. Enjoy vintage candy and popcorn.
Themed clothing is encouraged. Registration is required.
Click: https://manhattanks.librarycalendar.com/event/vintage-movie-night-heres-looking-you-kid-19299 to register.

Plates & Pours: Savor the End
2024-09-10 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Savor the End: Plates and Pours’ Farewell Feast
The event you know and love is back for the very LAST time!
Join us for Plates & Pours, held Downtown on September 10th, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Your $75 ticket includes an unforgettable evening of food and beverages.

Plates & Pours: A Tasting Tour of Downtown is Manhattan’s premier culinary experience! Ticket holders will indulge in the finest offerings in Downtown. This epic culinary journey is presented by Meritrust Credit Union.
12 of our incredible eateries and bars give 100% of their time, resources, and products at NO CHARGE, making this event possible for the last decade. As the sole fundraiser for Downtown Manhattan, Inc., Plates & Pours has played a pivotal role in funding cherished events and initiatives such as Third Thursdays, stunning murals and public art projects, enchanting Christmas carriage rides, and so much more.
This year, we aim to go out with a bang as we close this beloved chapter and move on to bigger and better things for our community. With your support, we can ensure that the legacy of Plates & Pours continues to thrive through the events and projects it has made possible.
Stay tuned for more details and prepare to savor the end at Plates and Pours’ epic conclusion.

Unlock the Mysteries of Sacred Geometry Workshop
2024-09-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Daughter of Delphi US, 115 S Fifth Street, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Brought to you by Heather Blake of Cosmic Compass sponsored by Daughter of Delphi US
Please join us for an enlightening journey into the ancient world of Sacred Geometry. In
this class we’ll explore powerful symbols like the Vesica Pisces, Seed of Life, Flower of
Life, and Metatron’s Cube — all connected to the profound wisdom of ancient
civilizations. We’ll dive into the Platonic Solids and discover how these shapes form the
building blocks of reality. You’ll also learn practical ways to incorporate sacred geometry
into your daily life, whether through meditation, creative expression, or activating your
inner potential. The session offers valuable insights to deepen your connection with
sacred geometry and includes a hands-on drawing exercise to bring these sacred forms
to life.

Symphony on the Plaza
2024-09-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Riley County Courthouse Plaza, 100 Courthouse Plz, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
🎶 Symphony on the Plaza 🎶
Join us for an enchanting evening with the Manhattan Symphony Orchestra as they present “Home on the Range” at the Courthouse Plaza on September 7th at 7 PM. This outdoor concert is free to the public, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy beautiful music from local musicians.
Bring your own lawn chairs and pack a picnic for a cozy, yet elevated experience. Enhance your evening with picnic snacks available from a variety of downtown businesses.
Don’t miss this magical night of music and community!
Details:

Event: Symphony on the Plaza
Performance: “Home on the Range” by the Manhattan Symphony Orchestra
Date & Time: September 7th, 7 PM
Location: Courthouse Plaza
Admission: Free to the public
Extras: Bring lawn chairs and a picnic; snacks available from downtown businesses

Come and enjoy a night to remember with great music, good company, and the charm of Downtown Manhattan!
*photo is taken in front of Anderson Hall on campus. Event takes place at the Riley County Courthouse Plaza.

Purple Power Play 2024
2024-08-30 17:00 - 21:30 | Blue Earth Plaza, Colorado St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Check out the 2024 kick-off to fall and sports in Manhattan, Kansas with Purple Power Play!
Live music, food trucks, inflatables, along with the Pride of Wildcat Land, Classy Cats, Cheerleaders, Coaches and Players from a variety of K-State teams.

Nate McClendon Jazz Quartet ft. Wayne Goins at Union Hall
2024-08-15 20:30 - 21:30 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
July 18, 2024 · 8:30pm
Union Hall Jazz Series host and saxophonist Nate McClendon and quartet mainstays drummer Robert Rodriguez and bassist Michael T Brown will be joined by guitarist Wayne Goins — who is certain to elevate everyone’s game!
In addition to being the director of Jazz Studies at K-State, Dr. Goins has played with such greats as legendary guitarist Kenny Burrell, alto saxophonist Bobby Watson, trumpeter Clark Terry, tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano, organist Jimmy McGriff, and many others.
Taking full advantage of Union Hall’s dynamic, open, multi-level space, paying guests can watch the gig in the Keller’s Ballroom on the second floor or hang out in the Atrium on the main level and listen for free. Seating in Keller’s Ballroom is limited.
Tickets: $10 through Eventbritehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/923121740977
There will be a cashless bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Food will also be available for purchase.

Downtown Art Walk
2024-08-15 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Stroll through curated art spaces during our Downtown Art Walk on August 15th from 5-8pm. Join fellow art enthusiasts for an exploration of captivating artworks showcased in various venues throughout Downtown, including Flight Crew Coffee, Underground Collective, 409 Art Space, Midtown Art Plaza and more to come.

Sample refreshing treats along the way as you admire displays from local and regional artists and highlighting some talented KSU art students.

This event will have simultaneously with Downtown’s August Third Thursday.

Third Thursday: August
2024-08-15 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
On the Third Thursday of each month from May to October, downtown transforms into a street faire and maker’s market.
You’ll want to come to each one as you won’t want to miss activities unique to each date! Don’t miss our Third Thursday staples like the Cake Walk, our sidewalk musicians, and variety of maker’s booths.
Each Third Thursday has a special feature!

This month is Midsummer Faire, featuring artists painting en plein air, a rock painting station, grab-n-go florals, and paper lantern painting and release.

Melanin Indoor Market
2024-08-10 15:30 - 19:00 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
Join us for Melanin Indoor Market – Celebrate Black Business Excellence! hosted by Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills.
Dive into a vibrant celebration of innovation, culture, and community at Melanin Market! This select showcase highlights Black-owned businesses, featuring bespoke handcrafted candles, luxurious cosmetics, delectable soul food and more!
Melanin Market is more than a shopping venue; it’s an opportunity to meet visionary entrepreneurs and hear the compelling stories that energize the Black business community in Manhattan and beyond.
What’s in Store?· Unique handcrafted goods· Luxurious beauty products· Irresistible soul food· Live music from a local DJ· Cashless bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails (debit and credit cards only).
Join locals and visitors alike in a festive atmosphere where you can support and celebrate Black entrepreneurship. Shop, eat, dance, and make a positive impact.
RSVP now to secure your spot! https://bit.ly/melaninmarket24First 50 registrants receive a FREE Melanin Market Swag Bag!

Beer Olympics on Poyntz
2024-08-03 13:00 - 19:00 | Finn’s Neighborhood Pub, 317 Poyntz Ave. Suite A, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
In honor of the Summer Olympics, come participate in the inaugural Beer Olympics on Poyntz!! Manhatchet, AJ’s and Finn’s have come together to provide a day of fun at the Olympics.

Teams of two people
$5.00 entry fee per person
Begin by throwing axes at Manhatchet
Followed by cornhole at AJ’s
And finish by playing darts, pool, basketball and golf at Finn’s
Awesome prizes will be awarded to the 1st and 2nd place teams with giveaways to each participant
Award ceremony at Finn’s at the completion of the event
Max of 15 teams, so sign up early at Finn’s from now until the actual event begins at 1:00pm on Saturday, August 3rd.

National Day of the Cowboy at FHDC
2024-07-27 10:00 - 15:00 | Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
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!
Wrangle up the family for a day filled with activities embracing the Wild West. Dress up as a cowboy (or cowgirl) and take a western style photo.
Brush up on your cowboy skills of roping and branding. Kids’ activities, live entertainment, and wagon rides (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) round out the day.

https://www.facebook.com/events/380937634367319

Hungry Chickpea Ribbon Cutting
2024-07-23 11:00 - 11:30 | Hungry Chickpea, 106 S 4th St, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Welcome Hungry Chickpea into our community with a ribbon cutting ceremony!
Hungry Chickpea is a specialty salads shop owned and operated by Mario and Kristi Baonga, a local chef and registered dietitian couple. Their mission is to provide fresh, scratch-made meals and snacks by mindfully preparing quality ingredients, providing the community with whole-food options that are convenient and suited to enjoy with intention.

Nate McClendon Jazz Quartet ft. Wayne Goins at Union Hall
2024-07-18 19:00 - 21:30 | Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, 66502
July 18, 2024 · 7pm & 8:30pm
Union Hall Jazz Series host and saxophonist Nate McClendon and quartet mainstays drummer Robert Rodriguez and bassist Michael T Brown will be joined by guitarist Wayne Goins — who is certain to elevate everyone’s game!
In addition to being the director of Jazz Studies at K-State, Dr. Goins has played with such greats as legendary guitarist Kenny Burrell, alto saxophonist Bobby Watson, trumpeter Clark Terry, tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano, organist Jimmy McGriff, and many others.
Taking full advantage of Union Hall’s dynamic, open, multi-level space, paying guests can watch the gig in the Keller’s Ballroom on the second floor or hang out in the Atrium on the main level and listen for free. Seating in Keller’s Ballroom is limited.
Tickets: $10 through Eventbritehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/923121740977
There will be a cashless bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Food will also be available for purchase.

Third Thursday: July
2024-07-18 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
On the Third Thursday of each month from May to October, downtown transforms into a street faire and maker’s market.You’ll want to come to each one as you won’t want to miss activities unique to each date! Don’t miss our Third Thursday staples like the Cake Walk, our sidewalk musicians, and variety of maker’s booths.
Each Third Thursday has a special feature!This month is Midsummer Faire, featuring artists painting en plein air, a rock painting station, grab-n-go florals, and paper lantern painting and release.

Plein air on Poyntz 2024
2024-07-18 16:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Join us for a Plein air on Poyntz painting contest, coinciding with July’s Third Thursday event. Embrace the beauty of “en plein air” painting, where artists create masterpieces outdoors, capturing the essence of their subjects in natural light and vibrant colors.
Ready to showcase your artistic talent? Sign up for the contest on our website at downtownmhkart.com/pleinair.
Stroll through the event and witness the magic unfold as artists bring landscapes to life before your eyes. It’s a captivating experience you won’t want to miss!

Downtown Sidewalk Sale
2024-07-18 10:00 - 2024-07-20 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Our Downtown Sidewalk Sale is back, and we’re kicking it off during July’s Third Thursday event!
Join us for three days of fantastic deals and unique finds at 14 participating Downtown businesses. The event kicks off just before Third Thursday and continues through Friday and Saturday during regular store hours.
Event Dates:Third Thursday: July 18th, 10am – 8pmFriday: July 19th, store hoursSaturday: July 20th, store hours

Enjoy sales both on the sidewalks and inside the stores. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to shop and support our local businesses. See you there!

Participating Businesses:
Twelve: Fellowship BoutiqueBlingMesa Collection BoutiqueThe Boutique/ Michael & MadgeBargain BoutiqueBrown’s Shoe FitFragrant Blends Candle BarDrapery WorldCaravan AntiquesG. Thomas JewelersThe PathfinderGlo SpaFurnish

Christmas in July
2024-07-14 14:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Garden Inn, 410 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
The Manhattan Festival of Lights at Blue Earth Plaza is bringing Christmas in July to Manhattan Hilton Garden Inn on July 14th!Join us for a summer celebration with Santa and enjoy a FREE screening of ‘A Christmas Story’ with your friends and family, complete with popcorn! Santa’s Meet & Greet: 2:00 PM Movie Time: 2:30 PM Film: ‘A Christmas Story’ on the BIG ScreenFor more details, visit: www.mhkfestivaloflights.comStay with us! Make your reservations at manhattanks.hgi.com.
