Downtown Manhattan Inc.

Switch Wicked Summer Songwriter's Series@ Manhattan Brewing Co.
2025-07-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Live local music, cold beer, and good vibes all summer long. Join us for the Switch Wicked Summer Songwriters Series every Saturday evening in the alley behind Manhattan Brewing Co. Each week features a different lineup of talented regional artists. Free to attend and open to all. Come hang!
This week:
🎶 Artist: Sally Vee
🕕 Time: 6-8pm

After Hours Jam Night at Switch Wicked
2025-07-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
After Hours Jam Night at Switch Wicked Studios

Thursday, July 24, 2025
7:00 PM 9:00 PM

Switch Wicked Studios413 Poyntz AvenueManhattan, KS, 66502United States (map)

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.

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!

Gallery Talk with Rae Stern
2025-07-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Museum of Art and Light, 316 Pierre St., Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Afterimage is a multidisciplinary body of work by artist Rae Stern that explores the layered relationship between landscape, memory, and belonging. Rooted in personal history and shaped by archival fragments, the project investigates how places hold far more than meets the eye—and how they are experienced differently by those who know them through daily intimacy and those who encounter them from afar.
Join us on July 26 @ 4pm for a gallery walk and talk with artist Rae Stern celebrating the opening of her solo exhibition Afterimage, exploring her practice while employing digital tools in the manipulation of multiple media including ceramics, photography, paper, glass, and textiles as she uncovers the social and cultural effects of technology.
Free for Members and new museum guests with museum admission.
Big Thanks to:
Kemper Family Foundations, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee &
Jewish Art Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City
for supporting the Afterimage exhibition

Switch Wicked Summer Songwriters Series - Tyler Gregory
2025-07-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Switch Wicked Summer Songwriters Series – Tyler Gregory

6:00 PM 8:00 PM
Manhattan Brewing Co. (map)
Google Calendar ICS

Live local music, cold beer, and good vibes all summer long. Join us for the Switch Wicked Summer Songwriters Series every Saturday evening in the alley behind Manhattan Brewing Co. Each week features a different lineup of talented regional artists. Free to attend and open to all. Come hang!
This week:
🎶 Artist: Tyler Gregory
🕕 Time: 6-8pm

Opening Reception with Artist - Lisa Grossman @ SNW Gallery
2025-08-01 17:00 - 20:00 | SNW Gallery, 328 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502
Lisa Grossman – New Prairie Work
Opening reception on August 1from 5 to 8pm

The Artist requests pieces remain on exhibit
at SNW through September 15 so that
all may have an opportunity to view them.

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!

First Saturday Art Market at Switch Wicked Studios
2025-08-02 11:00 - 15:00 | Switch Wicked, 413 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
First Saturday Art Market at Switch Wicked Studios
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.
Want to vend? Table fees are just $30, or only $10 for Switch Wicked Studios members (studio memberships are just $20/month!). Apply below to be considered for an upcoming market.

11:00 AM 3:00 PM
Switch Wicked Studios (map)
Google Calendar ICS

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.

Art Exhibit Opening Reception
2025-08-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Featured Artist Opening ReceptionDon’t miss our special reception at Midtown Plaza on 4th Street, highlighting works by Linda Illgner & Caitlin Perry.
🕔 Reception: 5:00 – 7:00 PM🎤 Artist Discussion: 6:00 PM🖼️ Exhibits on view at Midtown Plaza, 409 Art Space, and the Underground throughout August & September.
Free admission – all are welcome
About the Artists –
Linda Illgner –
Linda L.V. Illgner, Papermaker & Collage Artist
Linda L.V. Illgner is a Kansas-born papermaker and collage artist who transforms handmade and found paper into intricate, nature-inspired artworks. Using fibrous pulp made from tree bark, plants, grains, and even sentimental items like her father’s overalls, she crafts richly textured and colorful collage pieces. Each artwork is built from hundreds of individually torn and placed pieces of gel-printed, rice, or found paper—designed to captivate the eye and evoke a sense of peace and wonder.
Inspired by a Girl Scout trip to a paper making studio over 30 years ago, Linda became fascinated not only by the art but the process. Paper-making became her foundation, a medium to explore color, pattern, and dimension. She strives for energy and movement in her work, encouraging viewers to pause and fully experience every detail—both visually and emotionally.
After decades living in Texas and Florida, Linda returned to Kansas in 2024 to continue creating and supporting the arts. Her award-winning work has been featured in juried and group exhibitions and is held in private collections nationwide. Linda’s vibrant collages reflect a deep appreciation for nature and a lifelong passion for creativity.
Caitlin Penny – Print Maker
Caitlin Penny is a relief printmaker primarily working in the reduction printmaking technique, in order to explore environmental and animal conservation issues. Reduction printmaking is a unique process that allows an artist to create rich, colorful prints. This is done through the repeated carving and printing of a single piece of linoleum. Between the printing of each color the linoleum plate is carved away, preserving portions of the previous color when a new layer is applied overtop. Unlike other forms of printmaking this technique ultimately destroys the plate. This closely mirrors the fragile existence of the landscapes and animals depicted in Penny’s work. For once the final print is pulled, the plate is used up and discarded, effectively becoming extinct.
Penny’s subject matter covers serious and pressing issues. Her style however is illustrative and colorful while simultaneously being optimistic and pensive. The artist’s hopes this approach allows the viewer to productively contemplate and question the subject matter but without being intimidated by it.

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.

Little Apple Silent Book Club @ Flight Crew Coffee
2025-08-14 17:00 - 19:00 | Flight Crew Coffee, 423 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States

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

Ladies Game Night @ Village Geek
2025-08-15 18:30 - 21:30 | The Village Geek, 105 N. 3rd Street, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Price:FREE
Time:6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Recurrence:Recurring monthly on the 3rd Friday

About

Ladies, come join us for a board game night!

Every third Friday, a local group of women will be teaching their favorite board games! This is a free event and participants will receive a VG Rewards sticker.

Art Unplugged! - Manhattan Public Library
2025-08-19 17:30 - 19:00 | Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Cultivating Creativity: Growing the Visual Art Scene in Manhattan, KS

Join us for a lively panel discussion with leaders from Manhattan’s key visual art institutions. Together, we’ll explore how to grow, connect, and energize the local art scene.

Date: Tuesday, August 19th, 2025Time: 5:30 – 7:00 pmLocation: Manhattan Public LibraryFree and open to the public

Panelists:

Kendra Kuhlman, Director, Manhattan Arts Center

Kent Michael Smith, Director, Beach Museum of Art

Erin Dragotto, ExecutiveDirector, Museum of Art & The Museum of Art + Light

Shree Joglekar, Head, Department of Art, Kansas State University

Gina Snyder, Executive Director, Downtown Manhattan

Topics include:

How to expand public engagement with art

Opportunities for artist support and exhibition

Collaborative partnerships across institutions

The role of art in downtown development and tourism

Audience Q&A + Post-panel networking reception

Come share your ideas and be part of the creative future of Manhattan.

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

Symphony on the Plaza
2025-09-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music under the stars! The Manhattan Symphony Orchestra will bring the Plaza to life with a spectacular open-air performance, featuring a mix of classical favorites and contemporary pieces.
7:00 pm – Blue Earth Plaza – Downtown MHK
Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an inspiring night of music in the heart of the city.
Free admission! Don’t miss this magical community celebration of the arts!
This event is proudly sponsored by CGN Advisors & Flint Hills Neuropsychology Service.
“A big thank you to the Flint Hills Discovery Center for generously loaning chairs to the Manhattan Symphony Orchestra members — your support helps make this community event a success!”

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

String Circle: Artist Talk at Flight Crew Coffee
2025-09-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Flight Crew Coffee, 423 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Have a coffee, meet the musicians, and learn about Americana influences in classical chamber music. This (free!) lecture is accompanied by a performance of Kenji Bunch’s riveting, fiddle-inspired “String Circle.”

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.

City Commission Candidate Public Forum
2025-10-01 17:30 - 19:30 | Bockers II, 221 N. 4th Street, Manhattan, KS, 66502, United States
Duration: 2 hr

The public is invited to attend the Downtown City Commission Candidate Public Forum hosted by the Downtown Manhattan, Inc Board of Directors. The public will have about one hour to ask questions related to Manhattan and the issues we face as a community. The forum is moderated by former Chamber President, Lyle Butler. Candidates will be given questions specific to downtown issues prior to the forum and asked to answer them for the public. Light refreshments and water will be provided along with a cash bar. The forum is being held at Bocker’s II downtown event venue at 221 N. 4th Street. Ample parking is available across the street at 4th and Leavenworth.

Plein Air on Poyntz Art Competition
2025-10-04 15:30 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
Join us for the most exciting art event of the season! Capture the spirit of Downtown Manhattan by painting en plein air along the vibrant Poyntz Avenue. Celebrate creativity, connection, and community on Poyntz Avenue!

Event Overview:
Artists are invited to set up along Poyntz Ave and create a piece that reflects the energy and culture of the street. You’ll have 3 hours to complete your artwork onsite. All styles and mediums welcome — as long as the work is done live during the event.
Entry Fee: $20 per submission

Awards & Recognition:

Grand Prize: $500 award + artwork becomes the property of Downtown Manhattan
All submissions will be showcased in a Downtown Art Space throughout October
After the exhibition, artists may sell their pieces directly. We ask that pieces remain on display until the end of October.

Judging:
All submissions will be reviewed and selected by a jury of art professionals and community members, ensuring a thoughtful and high-quality selection.
Time Schedule Break Down –
3:00 pm – Artist Check In & Set up
4:00 pm – Competition begins
6:00 pm – Competition ends/ Artist tear down
6:25 pm – All submissions must be turned in to judges station @ Courthouse Plaza
6:30 pm – Judging begins
7:00 pm – Winner announced
Register to paint en plein air here.

Fall Opening Exhibit - Downtown MHK
2025-10-04 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Manhattan
New Art Exhibition – Opening ReceptionSaturday, October 4 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM | Downtown Manhattan
Meet our featured Artist at our Opening Reception – Join us at Midtown Plaza at 116 S. 4th Street for a special showcase of artwork by Daphne McNelly & Reagan Johnson

🕔 Reception: 5:00 – 7:00 PM

🎤 Artist Panel: 6:00 PM at Midtown Plaza

🖼️ Exhibits remain on view at Midtown Plaza, and The Underground through October & November

Following the Plein Air Competition, our 409 Poyntz Art Space will host a special showcase featuring the works of this year’s participating artists. This exhibition will give the community an opportunity to view the completed pieces up close and celebrate the talent and creativity captured during the event.

Reagan Johnson is a self-taught photographer and a native of Olsburg, Kansas. She
specializes in concert photography as well as portrait and nature photography. From
2022 to present, Reagan has provided coverage for four publications of 73 concerts
featuring 132 different bands and artists. This coverage spans 35 venues across 12
cities in 6 states.

Daphne McNelly – is a watercolor artist based in Manhattan, Kansas, and I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. Art, for me, is more than expression, it is a connection to the human experience, a language that communicates emotions and stories too intricate for words.
My work is recognized by vibrant colors, whimsical designs, and a love of floral elements. I draw inspiration from the natural world, the way flowers bloom and fade, the dance of light and shadow, and the endless possibilities of color and shape. Butterflies also appear throughout my work, carrying their own symbolism of transformation, resilience, and renewal. Their presence reflects my belief that art, like life, is ever-evolving, delicate, and full of possibility.
As a self-taught artist, my journey has been one of experimentation and continual growth, but also plenty of happy accidents. Watercolor constantly reminds me that I’m not in control. The way the paint runs, blends, or does its own thing keeps me on my toes, and I’ve learned to embrace that unpredictability. It’s a practice in letting go, laughing at the unexpected, and remembering that art doesn’t always have to be serious, it can simply be play.
In the end, my work is an offering: a celebration of joy, nature, and the moments that remind us to notice the extraordinary within the everyday and to always have a little fun with life.”

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!
