Daily editionWednesday, July 15th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of July.
Culture
Gilley’s Gambling Hall and Wichita Festivals announced the inaugural Flavor and Barbecue Fest, scheduled for Oct. 9-10 at the Back40 in Park City (a 40-acre outdoor venue).
The KCBS-sanctioned event will feature top barbecue teams, food trucks, and vendors for a weekend of community fun.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Somewhere Fest returns in downtown Wichita on Sept. 25-26 with two days of live music, immersive art, and social impact activations; the lineup features national acts (Bailey Zimmerman, DJ Diesel, Ian Munsick) and local favorites.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Education
Demolition began at the former Chester Lewis Academy in northeast Wichita after inspectors found mold, air quality issues, and structural cracks last year.
A special open house celebrated its legacy in March before plans for a new early childhood center on the site were dropped.
KWCHRead more
The USD 308 board approved funds for elevator repair in a district building — the repair work will begin soon to improve safety.
KWCHRead more
Environment
KDHE said a fish kill at a Chadsworth neighborhood pond was caused by natural low dissolved oxygen from rainfall runoff and high temperatures.
Crews began cleaning up Tuesday and Living Waters Aquatic Management will remove dead fish and start chemical remediation today.
KWCHRead more
Government
A construction project is underway around the Keeper of the Plains in downtown Wichita.
The city is building a retaining wall and upgrading drainage & irrigation systems with improvements expected to finish by winter and temporary changes made to pedestrian access.
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Health
Sedgwick County has reported five cases of cyclosporiasis amid a nationwide outbreak, with KDHE confirming 22 cases statewide.
Health officials advise washing produce thoroughly — especially salad greens — to help prevent further infections.
KWCHRead more
Children’s Mercy Wichita opened a new clinic today in Wichita to offer expanded pediatric services— the modern facility aims to serve local families with improved healthcare options.
KWCHRead more
Sports
INTRUST Bank Arena will host expanded play-in games for the NCAA men’s basketball tournament in 2027 and 2028, a deal expected to boost Wichita State’s exposure.
Coach Paul Mills said the move may help with recruiting efforts.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Automobilia Moonlight Charity Car Show
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 · 4-11 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Supporting local charities — Celebrate 30 years of automotive passion in Wichita with classic cars and a community street party.
Lego Brick by Brick Camp
Monday, July 20th, 2026 · 1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Pricing details not specified — Explore exciting Lego themes like Formula 1 and dinosaurs in a hands-on camp experience.
Wichita Wind Surge vs. Midland Rockhounds
Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 · 7:05-8:05 p.m. — Equity Bank Park — Ticket prices vary — Watch an exciting Double-A baseball game against the Midland Rockhounds with special activities throughout the evening.
Candlelight: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 · 8:45–9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soothing magic of Fleetwood Mac's music in a candlelit setting.
Big Boogie Concert
Friday, July 24th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — $53.33 to $100.43 — Enjoy an all-ages concert featuring Big Boogie and surprise support acts in a vibrant venue.
Bop To The Top Tour
Saturday, July 25th, 2026 · 9 p.m. — The Cotillion — $29.78 — Celebrate 20 years of Hannah Montana and High School Musical with a high-energy dance party featuring sing-alongs and audience participation.
Whiskey Myers Live Concert
Sunday, July 26th, 2026 · 7:00 – 8:45 PM — WAVE — $34.85 — Catch the genre-bending band Whiskey Myers as they deliver their energetic live performance.
Beginner Chair Yoga Class at Club Hope
Wednesday, July 29th, 2026 · 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — $10 drop-in; free for survivors — Experience a gentle yoga class that enhances physical and emotional well-being while promoting resilience.
Do Or Die Concert
Friday, July 31st, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — WAVE — $38.63 — Experience hits like 'Do U' and 'Hotel Room' with Humble Greatness & Twansac.
Truck Fest
Saturday, August 1st, 2026 · 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. — Kansas International Dragway — $15/day for adults — The track is dedicated to trucks with contests and prizes galore.