Daily editionThursday, May 7th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
Culture
The Tallgrass Film Festival and Harvester Arts are launching a new partnership with an event at KMUW tomorrow from 5:30 to 7 p.m. to reveal the festival artwork and boost local creative programming in Old Town this October.
KMUWRead more
Crown Uptown Theatre in College Hill now shows a blank marquee, locked doors, and a disconnected phone as its weekend show is canceled — fueling demolition rumors and prompting Wichita City Councilmember Joseph Shepard to say he will reach out today since no demolition permit has been submitted.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Mike Johnson from Wichita Driving School advises drivers to cut back on idling, avoid abrupt stops, maintain proper tire inflation, and remove extra weight as gas prices (nearly 30 cents up this week) drive up costs.
He recommends shopping around and using quality gas and fuel additives to boost mileage.
KWCHRead more
Senators Marshall and Ricketts introduced a resolution designating May 2026 as National Beef Month; Kansas ranks third nationally with 5.95 million cattle that generate $11.7 billion and support over 38,000 jobs in cattle production + feedyards.
KNSSRead more
Education
United Way donated backpacks (as part of its Champion for Literacy campaign) with books to students at Adams Elementary today.
The initiative is one of 13 school donations aimed at ensuring every student reads at grade level by third grade.
KWCHRead more
Today, Harry Street Elementary’s 49 third graders received both a bike and helmet after community funds raised enough bikes, with 30 provided by Bike Walk Wichita+ the students also took a bike safety lesson on an obstacle course.
KWCHRead more
Government
Faced with rising costs, Stafford Fire Department purchased a secondhand fire truck today instead of a new vehicle since its last purchase in the 1990s + the truck from Windsor Heights will improve safety and response.
KWCHRead more
Wichita City officials held a ceremony at City Hall last night to honor several employees with public service awards — the event recognized their important contributions to local services.
KWCHRead more
Health
Funding approved by Wichita City Council and Sedgwick County Commission has moved forward plans for a wellness center for local first responders.
The center, located at the former Methodist Church at Third and Broadway, will offer health services and training and is set to open next year.
KWCHRead more
Sports
WSU has cut both men's and women's golf programs, sparking concern among Wichita’s local golf community — many worry the move may reduce opportunities for young athletes.
Local clubs and fans expect further discussion on the change in the coming days.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Saturday, May 9th, 2026 · 8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by the Listeso String Quartet under candlelight.
Fit For A King Concert
Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $36-$111 — Enjoy a night of heavy music with Fit For A King in Wichita.
PokeKon Fest
Saturday, May 16th, 2026 · 10 AM – 5 PM — Holiday Inn Wichita East I-35 by IHG — Ticketed event — A haven for Pokemon collectors featuring trade opportunities and fandoms across genres.
Shinedown Live Concert
Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of Shinedown with special guests Coheed and Cambria & Black Stone Cherry.
Free Alzheimer’s Educational Conference
Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita — Free entry — Gain insights on Alzheimer’s disease and connect with experts and the community.
Mac Saturn Live Performance
Friday, May 22nd, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — WAVE — Ticketed event — Experience a dynamic live show with Mac Saturn bringing fresh grooves to Wichita.
Outdoor Vintage Market at Paramount Marketplace Antiques
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 · 9 AM – 3 PM — Paramount Marketplace Antiques — Free admission — Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at this lively outdoor market.
Love Norteñas and Huapangos Concert
Sunday, May 24th, 2026 · 9:00 p.m. — El Basurero Sports Bar — Age 18+ — Experience a night of adrenaline with Retoños Del Río and the electrifying beats of los Últimos Del Topo Chico.
Girls Basketball Camp for K-2nd Grade
Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 · 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. — Trinity Academy — $38 — Focus on essential basketball skills with Trinity coaches in a fun environment.
Wichita Riverfest
Friday, May 29th, 2026 · Recurring daily — Wichita Festivals, Inc. — Entry fee varies — Kansas’ biggest outdoor party filled with activities, contests, shows, and food awaits in downtown Wichita.