Daily editionSaturday, May 9th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 9th of May.
Business
Audio Visual Service, owned by Ed Hope since 2003, is setting up wireless mics + laser projectors for the Kansas Municipal Utilities Conference at the Hyatt's Cypress Ballroom.
The local expert said he will use digital mixers and LED displays to support future events as technology evolves.
KMUWRead more
Boeing Wichita and WSU Tech announced a new workforce training center to build local job skills.
The facility will offer hands-on programs and support workforce development in Wichita — a boost for the region’s growing industry.
KWCHRead more
Wichita flower shops are facing higher operating costs as rising gas prices boost delivery costs ahead of Mother’s Day.
Shop owners say they will keep prices steady + Bloomerang Floral will stay open until 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Local comic creators have launched Free Candy Publishing to help independent artists keep rights and access printing, publishing (and marketing) support; spearheaded by Ace Nuckolls, Chris Rau, and Brian (Bam) Hunter, the cooperative venture is in early stages and plans to form an LLC soon.
KMUWRead more
Wichita celebrated its VE Day anniversary on Friday, May 8 at a downtown park + local organizers arranged speeches, music, and displays to honor veterans and community heroes.
KWCHRead more
Lifestyle
Local flower shops are busy getting ready for Mother's Day by stocking fresh blooms and arranging festive displays, with special offers and creative bouquets coming soon.
Shoppers in Wichita can look forward to a vibrant selection this holiday.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Banana Ball made its Wichita debut at Equity Bank Park from May 7 to today, drawing thousands to watch the Loco Beach Coconuts & the Firefighters compete in a high-energy three-game series with viral entertainment and banana themed treats.
FOX KansasRead more
Wichita leaders plan to bid for hosting opening-round NCAA tournament games after the tournament expands next year, a move that could boost downtown businesses and raise the local profile.
Officials said the bid process is in early stages and key details are still pending.
KWCHRead more
Visit Wichita is exploring a bid to host opening-round men's NCAA Tournament games as the tournament expands to 76 teams, with bid specifications to be released in the coming weeks.
The downtown venue has hosted tournament games three times in the past eight years.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
3 on 3 Basketball at Riverfest
Saturday, May 30th, 2026 · 12-3 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Prizes available — Get your game on with 3 on 3 basketball for all ages at Riverfest.