Daily editionThursday, October 2nd, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of October.
Community
Local organizers have compiled a list of 21 October events that offer a range of experiences, including upscale shopping at Holiday Galleria at Century II from October 2 to 5 and a dazzling Drone Light Festival at Exploration Place from October 3 to 5.
The events also feature community festivals, fitness runs, film screenings and cultural showcases — giving Wichita residents diverse ways to enjoy the fall.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
The Salvation Army lost its grant to run the veteran housing program, so Catholic Charities Wichita now will manage the service that offers case management and temporary financial help to homeless veterans in Sedgwick County—transition expected to be seamless.
KSNRead more
Culture
Susie Santo from Visit Wichita said the TBEX Summit is underway in Wichita and draws travel bloggers, influencers, journalists and tourism pros.
The Drone Light Festival will run at Exploration Place from Oct. 3-5—Wichita is also planning many Halloween events.
KSNRead more
Education
Wichita State and WSU Tech reported record enrollment this fall with a combined total of 25,147 students.
Wichita State's enrollment grew by 4.3 percent and WSU Tech increased by 9.5 percent—continuing a decade-long trend of growth.
KWCHRead more
On Wednesday, the Kansas Board of Regents reported a 2.2% increase in fall enrollment, with public universities, community colleges and technical colleges all showing growth.
Wichita State’s enrollment reached 18,458 and WSU Tech had 6,689 students — marking the third consecutive year of rising numbers in Kansas higher education.
KSNRead more
Government
McConnell Air Force Base said a government shutdown will furlough 606 civilian workers from the 22nd and 931st Air Refueling Wings and personnel from the 184th Wing while military staff continue defending the nation without pay until a continuing resolution is passed.
The Commissary, Base Exchange and Shoppette, as well as limited Pass and Registration and medical services, will remain open—while the base website and social media channels update only in emergencies.
KSNRead more
Visit Abilene Kansas announced that the federally-operated Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum will be closed during the government shutdown—visitors should check directly for updated information.
KWCHRead more
Sedgwick County Commissioners will consider a proposal on Wednesday to consolidate Wichita tag offices as Sedgwick County Treasurer Brandi Baily said that closing the Kellogg office on Oct. 9 and transferring services to the Douglas office by Oct. 14 will save the county over $350,000 a year and more than $1 million for the remainder of the lease — a move driven by limited state funding.
KSNRead more
Lifestyle
A guide is available showing family-friendly Halloween and trunk-or-treat events in Wichita throughout October—offering details on locations, times, and dates for safe family celebrations.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Wichita Events
Ty Myers Concert
Friday, October 3rd, 2025 · 7-9:30 p.m. — WAVE — Starting at $29.50 — Experience the rising star Ty Myers as he showcases his blend of country and rock music from his Oklahoma roots.
Caleb Lee Hutchinson Concert
Saturday, October 4th, 2025 · 8:00 – 9:30 PM — Equity Bank Park — Starting at $35.00 — Experience an incredible night of country music under the lights.
2025 Fall Curvy Yoga Series
Sunday, October 5th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Yoga Central — Registration required — Experience a supportive yoga series tailored for all body types and abilities.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Monday, October 6th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Experience gentle movements and mindfulness in an accessible yoga practice for all abilities.
The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight
Tuesday, October 7th, 2025 · 8-9:30 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — $ — Experience a mesmerizing fusion of iconic Rock & Metal anthems performed by classical musicians in a stunning candlelit setting.
Splash of Color Workshop for Teens
Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 · 3:30-5 p.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Check website for pricing — Unleash your creativity in a fun, colorful environment tailored for ages 10-16.
Watercolor Pumpkins & Leaves Workshop
Thursday, October 9th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — The Art Park — $12.00 — Unleash your creativity in a colorful celebration of autumn with this fun watercolor class.
Carolanne Miljavac Live Comedy Show
Friday, October 10th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Vorshay's Cocktail Lounge — Refunds up to 1 day before event — Enjoy relatable humor and sharp wit from Carolanne as she shares the chaos of everyday life.
Curvy Yoga Drop-in Classes
Sunday, October 12th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Yoga Central — Cash or online registration — Explore accessible yoga tailored for every body type and ability in a welcoming environment.
Chair Yoga Class
Monday, October 13th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Experience a supportive chair yoga practice aimed at improving strength and mobility.