The Most Epic Annual Events in Kansas: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
Introduction
Kansas may be known for its vast prairies and heartland spirit, but it also knows how to throw a festival. From music that fills the fields to food that fuels the fun, the Sunflower State offers a wide array of annual events that bring locals and visitors together in celebration—of arts, culture, heritage, food, music, and community. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 must-experience festivals in Kansas (currently open)—festivals that are search-worthy, shareable, and definitely worth planning for. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a Kansas local, or simply an enthusiast looking to experience the best events in Kansas, here’s your roadmap to unforgettable festival moments.
1. Kansas State Fair – Hutchinson, KS
The Kansas State Fair is the quintessential home-state celebration—full of tradition, agriculture, entertainment and fun for all ages. kansasstatefair.com+1
Why it stands out
Held annually in Hutchinson, and drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees. Kiddle+1
A mixture of fair rides, agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, craft competitions, and entertainment under one roof (and outdoors).
Great for family trips, road-trips across Kansas, and experiencing “festival culture in Kansas” at its broadest.
Insider tips
Book lodging early in the Hutchinson area—this event brings in heavy demand.
Arrive on a weekday to avoid heavy weekend crowds and to enjoy faster access to exhibits.
Check the schedule in advance for big-name performers or special days (e.g., youth competition days).
Wear comfortable shoes—there’s plenty of ground to cover.
2. Country Stampede – Bonner Springs / Kansas City Metro, KS
For music lovers who want to experience one of the biggest outdoor country music festivals in the Midwest, this festival delivers. Travel Kansas+1
Why it stands out
Located at the Azura Amphitheater in Bonner Springs, within the broader Kansas City region. Wikipedia
Features major country music acts, camping options, vendors, and the kind of festival energy that defines “big time” in Kansas.
Ideal for enthusiasts of live music, outdoor festival culture, camping-style stays, and multi-day experiences.
Insider tips
If you’re planning to camp, bring gear ahead of time and check the festival’s camping rules.
Invest in VIP or early-access passes if you want premium views or special amenities.
Being near the Kansas City metro gives you flexibility for dining and stay-over options.
3. Walnut Valley Festival – Winfield, KS
If bluegrass, acoustic music and craftsmanship appeal to you, the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield is a hidden gem. Wikipedia+1
Why it stands out
This is acoustic music at its finest—bluegrass, folk, roots.
Set in the relatively small, charming town of Winfield, it offers authenticity and immersive festival culture.
A bit off the beaten path compared to metro events, which adds to its appeal for travelers seeking something unique.
Insider tips
Plan your stay in Winfield or nearby—lodging may fill early.
Bring earplugs if you’re tent-camping—it’s still a music festival!
Arrive before main acts to catch up-and-coming musicians in intimate settings.
4. Kansas City Renaissance Festival – Bonner Springs, KS
Travel back in time at this medieval-themed festival with jousting, artisan vendors, costumed performers and more. Wikipedia
Why it stands out
Located in Bonner Springs, it brings a Renaissance flair to Kansas—unlike anything else on this list.
Family-friendly and immersive: vendors, artisans, food, shows, and a themed environment you’ll remember.
Great for families, groups, or anyone looking for a playful, visually rich festival experience.
Insider tips
Costumes are welcome! Dress up for fun and enhanced experience.
Check out the artisan booths early for unique shopping before items sell out.
Wear comfortable shoes—paths may be uneven in some themed areas.
5. Wichita Jazz Festival – Wichita, KS
Located in central Kansas, Wichita’s annual Jazz Festival brings big-time music and mid-state energy together. visitwichita.com
Why it stands out
Places Wichita—often overlooked in lists—squarely into the festival map for Kansas.
Strong lineup of jazz and music culture—appealing to music enthusiasts and local culture seekers alike.
A reminder that Kansas festivals are not just country or fair-style—they cover many genres and cultures.
Insider tips
Stay in Wichita’s downtown area to be close to venues and nightlife.
Buy festival-passes early—music festivals often sell out or fill quickly.
Explore local dining before or after concerts to make the most of your visit.
6. Ethnic Enrichment Festival – Kansas City, KS
This vibrant festival celebrates cultural diversity from dozens of countries right in the heart of Kansas City. ThinkKC+1
Why it stands out
Showcases multi-cultural food, music, dance, and art—spanning global communities living in Kansas.
Located in Kansas City, it makes for an accessible and meaningful cultural experience.
Ideal for families, culture-enthusiasts and anyone who loves food & world traditions.
Insider tips
Arrive hungry—the food stalls will tempt you!
Bring an appetite for both family-friendly fun and deeper cultural exploration.
Check the schedule for main stage performances and plan accordingly.
7. Sunflower Festival at Kansas Maze – Buhler, KS
A festival wrapped in nature’s beauty: sunflowers, photo-ops, crafts, trails and a vibrant rural festival feel. Mysite+1
Why it stands out
Set in Buhler, Kansas, near the heartland of sunflower country—connecting nature, photography, and festival fun.
Perfect for families, couples, photo-enthusiasts and anyone wanting a slower-pace, scenic festival.
Adds geographic balance: not just metro Kansas, but rural-charm Kansas.
Insider tips
Good idea to go early in the festival timeline—sunflowers bloom in a short window.
Bring your camera or smartphone with extra battery—the photo props are plentiful.
Dress casually, wear comfortable shoes for walking trails, and bring water if warm.
8. India Mela – Topeka, KS
This vibrant one-day festival in Topeka celebrates Indian culture, music, food and community—adding diversity to the Kansas festival scene. visittopeka.com
Why it stands out
Located in the capital city of Topeka, which makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
Focused on cultural celebration—music, dance, authentic food, and community energy.
Family-friendly and perfect for travelers looking for a unique cultural experience in Kansas.
Insider tips
Arrive early to avoid peak crowds.
Sample the food stalls—this is a food-lover’s festival as much as a cultural one.
Bring a light jacket or cover for sun/shade depending on the weather.
9. Tallgrass Film Festival – Wichita, KS
For cinephiles and story-lovers, this film festival in Wichita brings independent cinema, documentary storytelling, and cultural gatherings together. visitwichita.com
Why it stands out
Emphasizes arts and entertainment in Kansas beyond food and music.
Located in Wichita, it adds a sophisticated cultural layer to the festival list.
Great for adult travelers, film students, art lovers, or anyone seeking a refined festival experience.
Insider tips
Check the schedule ahead of time and reserve tickets for premiere screenings.
Pair your festival attendance with local dining or a stay in downtown Wichita for a full experience.
Consider doing a double-feature—it’s a film festival after all!
10. Brookside Art Annual – Kansas City, MO (Metro Kansas)
Although technically across the state line in Missouri, this art fair is part of the greater Kansas City region and deserves mention for visitors staying in or exploring the Kansas metro side. Visit KC
Why it stands out
Features local artists, live music, food trucks, and a festive atmosphere along Brookside’s charming streets.
Good for families, local shoppers, and visitors staying near Kansas City who want a daytime festival experience.
Complements the larger festivals by offering a more accessible and relaxed event.
Insider tips
Visit during the day for a relaxed exploration of art booths and food.
Parking may fill up—arrive early or use public transit if possible.
Perfect for souvenir shopping or experiencing local art culture in Kansas City.
Conclusion
Kansas is not only a land of wide-open skies and rich heritage—but also a state alive with festivals that celebrate music, culture, art, nature, and community. From the grand scale of the Kansas State Fair to the scenic Sunflower Festival in rural Buhler, there’s a festival for every taste and style. Whether you’re searching for “best annual events in Kansas,” “must-experience festivals in Kansas,” or “family-friendly festivals Kansas,” you don’t have to look far.