Daily editionSaturday, April 4th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 4th of April.
Community
Old Town Farm & Art Market returns to downtown Wichita today after a winter break, offering local vendors and artists a space to showcase fresh produce and handmade crafts.
KWCHRead more
Glenda DuBoise leads AARP Kansas and uses her years of community service to help older adults and families—she spends much of her time traveling across the state and supporting local projects like the community garden near Riverside Park in Wichita.
The VoiceRead more
Pinwheels of Possibility is a local event recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month that will offer resources + activities to teach abuse prevention and support services.
The event aims to empower families across Wichita with practical information and community connections.
KWCHRead more
Great Plains Nature Center will close its indoor facility for two years starting this summer to repair its foundation and update exhibits near 29th and Woodlawn (the park remains open for outdoor classes and some animals will be temporarily moved).
KWCHRead more
Business
Mark and Patrick Madden run M&M Sharpening where they fix knives, shears, and swords using skills passed down from generations.
Their Wichita business serves locals at farmers’ markets and trade conventions.
KMUWRead more
Economy
Mortgage rates have risen for five consecutive weeks after falling below 6% in late February, with Freddie Mac reporting 30-year fixed-rate loans now averaging 6.46%.
This increase may add about $100 to monthly payments for homebuyers in our area.
FOX KansasRead more
Education
A best-selling author visited a Wichita school on Apr. 3 to speak with students + the visit offered a rare chance for local readers to connect with a celebrated writer.
KWCHRead more
Environment
Sedgwick County will host an e-waste collection event soon at a designated site (details and timing provided by county officials) to help residents safely dispose of old electronics.
KWCHRead more
Government
Officials from Hutchinson and South Hutchinson are addressing a homeless encampment found under a bridge near Carey Park along the Arkansas River as residents express concern over trash and safety.
City leaders passed a fire ordinance and are working to move individuals into shelters (a challenge given the border site).
KWCHRead more
Health
Sedgwick County coroner confirmed that nitazene synthetic opioids, estimated 5 to 10 times stronger than fentanyl, have been found in drug cases and death investigations, raising concerns for community health.
FOX KansasRead more
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued a blue-green algae warning on Friday for Lake Afton, stating that water contact is unsafe for both people and pets.
KDHE advises washing off any lake water exposure immediately and keeping pets away from algae-covered areas.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Illinois coach Brad Underwood, a Kansas native and former coach at Dodge City Community College, now leads the Fighting Illini into the Final Four.
Today the team faces UConn on TBS + local fans are excited to see his journey come full circle.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Discover how to turn your passion for travel into a professional entrepreneurial venture.
Open Streets ICT: WSU & Shocker Neighborhood
Sunday, April 19th, 2026 · 12-4 p.m. — Wichita State University — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community event transforming streets into spaces for connection and wellness.
Wichita Gem, Fossil and Mineral Show
Friday, April 24th, 2026 · 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun — Cessna Activity Center — Adults $5, kids under 12 free — Explore a vibrant showcase of gems, fossils, and engaging lapidary demonstrations.
Outdoor Vintage Market at Paramount Marketplace Antiques
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 · 9 AM – 3 PM — Paramount Marketplace Antiques — Free admission — Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at this vibrant outdoor market.