Daily editionThursday, May 28th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 28th of May.
Community
KaZoo Wild Adventure Passport is available to encourage zoo visits from May 24 to Sept. 7 at all seven AZA-accredited zoos, including Sedgwick County Zoo.
Guests aged 3+ can download a passport at any location and enter a grand prize drawing on Sept. 14.
KWCHRead more
Business
Black Bird Burger, the sequel to Red Bird, is set to open in east Wichita in June or early July.
The restaurant will serve wagyu smash burgers and feature a full bar (including beer, cocktails, and wine) at the former Wendy's and Chick N Max space on E. Central.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Culture
Wichita's annual Riverfest will run from Friday, May 29 to Saturday, June 6 in downtown (featuring concerts by The Jacksons, Hank Azaria and others).
Normal parking rules apply with paid parking on weekdays and Friday-Saturday and free access on Sundays.
KWCHRead more
Wichita band FRACTVRED is releasing its new album 'Songs To Die To' today on digital platforms with vinyl and CD versions to follow.
The quartet will perform live at The Brickyard at 8 p.m. with fellow acts Atria, Wabash & Lake and Madi Laughlin.
KMUWRead more
Economy
Some local wheat farmers began harvesting early on Wednesday due to warm weather accelerating crop maturity — a shift that may boost market supply in the coming weeks.
KWCHRead more
Education
USD 259 began its summer food program on May 27 to offer free meals to students during the summer break at schools and community centers.
The district expects that the program will meet growing food needs throughout the break.
KWCHRead more
Government
Faith leaders and community members met at Wichita city budget town hall to push for proposals addressing affordable housing, homelessness and gun violence.
Justice Together is collaborating with councilmembers to propose a new sales tax measure to fund these initiatives by next year’s end.
KWCHRead more
Health
Kansas legislative leaders approved Gov. Kelly's request to extend the emergency declaration until June 7 to continue monitoring three residents who voluntarily remain at home after a potential hantavirus exposure from a symptomatic traveler on a flight.
KMUWRead more
Wichita health officials warn tick activity is rising — prompting advice to wear long sleeves and use repellent to avoid bites — as local pest control stresses managing rodent populations to reduce yard risks.
KWCHRead more
Governor Kelly toured Kansas’ first new mental health hospital in 100 years on Wednesday, May 27, showcasing renewed investment in mental health services; state officials noted the facility is designed to improve local care.
KWCHRead more
Real Estate
Developers broke ground on a $160M lagoon resort near 63rd & Rock Road on Wed, May 27, starting with a crystal lagoon built in a freezing climate.
The project is expected to create 800 jobs and attract 250,000 visitors annually.
FOX KansasRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Midwest Advisors Summit
Thursday, June 11th, 2026 · 1-7 p.m. — Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita — $150 — Explore actionable financial strategies and network with industry peers at this engaging summit.
Wicked City Roller Derby vs RockTown
Saturday, June 13th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — Kids 12 and under free with a paying adult — Enjoy an exciting roller derby match featuring local talent and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Minecraft Creative Workshop
Monday, June 15th, 2026 · 1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Cost info not provided — Unleash your creativity making Minecraft-themed crafts and drawings.
Jr Rocket Basketball Camp for 1st and 2nd Graders
Wednesday, June 17th, 2026 · All day — Rose Hill Recreation Commission — Camp registration required — Enhance skills and build confidence on the basketball court with the RHHS Boys Basketball team.