Daily editionSaturday, March 28th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 28th of March.
Community
Gen Z in Wichita are feeling less happy due to too much time on social media, experts say, so ICT YA Hangouts now organizes events for in-person meetups.
Local businesses report more young people joining sports, coffee chats, and book exchanges.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Botanica’s biggest Tulipfest began on Friday with over 75,000 tulips (100+ varieties) and hands-on workshops as locals celebrated spring; the festival will continue through April 26 for those seeking a blooming seasonal experience.
KWCHRead more
Education
WSU clarified that its projected $235.9 million debt for fiscal year 2026 comes from investments in its Innovation Campus and building projects, not an athletics deficit.
The correction was made after details were presented during the Kansas Board of Regents meeting on March 11.
The SunflowerRead more
Environment
Wildfires burned across south central Kansas last Thursday, with a large blaze near Winfield along Highway 77 and several grass fires in Wichita; crews battled strong winds and dry conditions, spraying water to protect fields and power lines as one firefighter recovered from heat exhaustion.
FOX KansasRead more
Government
Kansas lawmakers revived a bill to ban kratom after the House passed a conference committee vote of 76 to 49.
The measure follows earlier stalled efforts amid concerns that a synthetic version of the supplement can trigger opioid-like withdrawals.
KWCHRead more
Health
City officials announced new measures to support Wichita firefighters' mental and physical health on Friday, Mar. 27—new counseling and fitness programs will help ease work-related stress.
The program aims to boost overall well-being.
KWCHRead more
Wichita State’s Student Senate voted Wednesday night to fund a vision care pop-up clinic that will provide free eye exams & glasses to 50 students.
Health and Wellness Director Anoushka Raju said the initiative responds to a report that found vision care was the most requested service among students.
The SunflowerRead more
Heartspring released the first rendering of its new neurodevelopment center in Wichita, showing plans for a facility to boost local healthcare.
The design preview sets the stage for upcoming project development + paves the way for future construction.
KWCHRead more
Local organizers plan a charity garage sale and bowling contest in Wichita to help Kansans fighting cancer — details on event time and location will be announced soon.
KWCHRead more
A Wichita woman launched a fundraiser in honor of her mother and late father, both of whom battled cancer.
The campaign aims to raise funds for research+assist families facing the disease.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Brittany Harshaw, a local basketball standout from Andover Central, will compete for KU in the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament semi-finals on March 30 at Charles Koch Arena in Wichita.
Her family, who enjoys the shorter drive, is excited to support her during the game.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
2026 Women's Basketball Invitation Tournament
Monday, March 30th, 2026 · 1:30-6 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — $40+ — Watch the best of women's basketball compete for the WBIT crown in Wichita's exciting final games.
Elmo's Got The Moves
Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Tickets required — Dance and play along with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends in a magical live experience.
That Arena Rock Show
Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $28.14 — Experience a high-energy tribute to classic rock anthems of the 70s and 80s.
Zero 9:36 Live Performance
Friday, April 3rd, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — WAVE — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-octane energy of Zero 9:36’s unique sound blending trap-metal and rap-rock.
Easter Sunday Buffet
Sunday, April 5th, 2026 · Apr 5 — Chisholm's American Beef & Ale House — $31 to $50 — Indulge in a festive buffet featuring prime rib, glazed ham, and seasonal delights.
Bored Teachers Comedy Night
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Crown Uptown Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Bored Teachers as they share their hilarious tales from the classroom.
Kansas City Mavericks vs. Wichita Thunder
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 7:05-10:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Complimentary tickets available — Experience the excitement of this rivalry match with a special ticket promotion.
Aries Spears Comedy Show
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — Reserved seating — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Aries Spears, with concessions and full bars available.
KSAPT 2026 Conference Featuring Dr. Eliana Gil
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 · 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Aloft Wichita — Registration required — Explore play-based assessments and the impact of childhood trauma with expert guidance.
Bingo Loco Party
Friday, April 17th, 2026 · 6:00-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $44.27 — Join the ultimate bingo party featuring crazy prizes, hilarious hosts, and a night of dancing and laughter.