Daily editionThursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
Community
Bike Walk Wichita is urging young riders to bike safely as school vacation begins this week, advising kids to use small side streets near home and wear bright clothing & proper safety gear.
Executive director Holly Terrill said careful habits help everyone share the road safely.
KWCHRead more
The Kansas Food Bank received a 40,000-pound donation last night + volunteers began sorting the items today to help local families.
KWCHRead more
Business
China’s Commerce Ministry will buy 200 Boeing planes, and it is unclear if Wichita facilities building fuselage parts will see extra work; the deal marks China’s first major purchase since 2017 and follows recent high-level talks.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Kansas wheat farmers face a tough season as drought and higher fertilizer + diesel costs lower yields and risk a crop performance the worst since 1972.
Local growers are filing crop insurance while planning for future changes amid worsening weather conditions.
KNSSRead more
Education
Kansas Board of Regents and university administrators discussed a new definition for DEI-CRT content during a May meeting after the FY27 budget banned required instruction in most programs.
The proposal will be revised based on feedback, voted on in June, and sent for funding certification in July.
The SunflowerRead more
Sports
Defending TBT champion AfterShocks (Wichita State) will start a best-of-three series against New Mexico's The Enchantment at Koch Arena, with Game 1 on Monday, July 20 at 7 p.m. CT, Game 2 on Thursday, July 23 at 8 p.m. CT, and a potential Game 3 on Friday, July 24 at 8 p.m. CT.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Twin brothers Jason and Josh Parrish led Wichita State to an American Conference championship on Sunday, winning their events as Josh set a school record in the long jump — a win that builds on a family legacy of athletic success — with siblings in wrestling and the NFL.
KWCHRead more
Defending TBT champs The AfterShocks will play in a revamped tournament this summer that features 16 teams, a best-of-three opener & a $2 million prize.
The new format promises intense matchups that local fans can follow closely.
FOX KansasRead more
Accidents
A military training aircraft—a T-6A Texan II from Oklahoma—made an emergency landing at McConnell Air Force Base after its landing gear failed, with flight instructor Teresa Ortega saying the pilots followed emergency procedures to secure a safe landing.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
ICT PickleFest 2026
Saturday, June 6th, 2026 · 10 AM – 7 PM — Blood Orchard Brewing Co. LLC — Ticketed event — Celebrate the joy of pickling with local vendors, live music, and unique culinary experiences.
Wee Wet Wigglers Swim Program
Monday, June 8th, 2026 · 6:15-6:45 p.m. — Winfield Aquatic Center — Registration not yet open — Dive into water exploration and develop essential swimming skills in a parent-assisted class.