Daily editionSaturday, May 16th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 16th of May.
Community
Wichita police officers and family members gathered outside City Hall today to honor fallen officers.
The ceremony featured photos of the officers and a commemorative wreath placed at the memorial statue.
KWCHRead more
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will donate 40,000 lbs of food to the Kansas Food Bank on May 20 as part of a national collaboration started last November (with nearly 200 church volunteers set to sort the items).
KWCHRead more
Culture
On May 17, 1996, Wichita celebrated the Olympic flame's arrival during Riverfest as over 100,000 people gathered along the Arkansas River—where a canoe procession and native performances honored the historic journey to Atlanta for the Summer Olympics.
KNSSRead more
Education
Wichita State & Newman University are preparing for graduation ceremonies this weekend with over 2,400 graduates expected at Wichita State.
Families will gather for cap-and-gown pick-ups and last-minute celebrations while high temperatures encourage attendees to stay cool.
KWCHRead more
Wichita State held The Toast, a casual celebration for its 2026 graduates on Friday, May 15, where graduates + guests raised champagne flutes, with a photo gallery capturing friendly moments.
The SunflowerRead more
The Wichita school board appointed a new member on May 15 to help improve oversight and support local student success.
The board said the change fosters better community input and educational efforts.
KWCHRead more
A new AAP report shows recess helps children stay happy & learn better, and lawmakers recently discussed a bill to make recess mandatory in elementary schools.
Governor Kelly vetoed the bill but supports daily 30-minute breaks and a state fitness test once federal guidance is provided.
KWCHRead more
Environment
Officials are working to address groundwater contamination at 29th & Grove amid concerns over residents' health.
Free testing is available as cleanup measures will continue today.
The VoiceRead more
Sports
The Wichita State basketball program is building buzz as coach Paul Mills retained ten players, added four transfers and confirmed the return of key trio—Will Berg, TJ Williams and Dillon Battie; the move strengthens the team’s foundation for the upcoming season.
FOX KansasRead more
Accidents
Rep. Tracey Mann’s flight made an emergency landing Friday when smoke filled the cabin as it neared Kansas City; first responders & flight crews evacuated all passengers safely with no injuries.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Chair Yoga at Maize Rec
Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting while increasing strength and flexibility.
Larry Fleet Live Concert
Friday, June 5th, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $26.25 to $35.67 — Experience the soulful blend of country and rock with Tennessee's own Larry Fleet and special guest Wynn Williams.