Good morning, Wichita.

The Banana Ball ticket lottery in Wichita ends Friday for the May event—residents have only a few days to secure their chance to purchase tickets.

A Wichita-based company announced it will transform downtown into a winter destination by launching the holiday festival 'Somewhere in Winter' with a real ice rink and festive activities from November 27 to January 4.

The event will feature themed nights, live music, and family programming—prices for skating have not been shared yet.

Special Olympics Kansas has announced its 2026 Polar Plunge fundraiser with events scheduled in multiple cities including Emporia on Feb.21, Hutchinson on Jan.24, Kansas City on Feb.28, Lawrence on Feb.21, Manhattan and Pittsburg on Feb.14, Topeka on Feb.7, and Maize on March 7 with Salina’s date still to be set—this mobile event will reach more communities to raise funds for athlete training, competitions, health, and leadership programs.

Local organizations in Wichita are planning to help neighbors who might lose SNAP benefits if the program is cut — food banks and community centers will deliver meals and supplies — to support residents in need.

A four-way stop is now in place at 135th Street West and 29th Street North in northwest Wichita after a deadly August crash took the life of Tiffany Jones and hurt four others (three were children) and after the 2022 crash that killed Deputy Sidnee Carter, officials say the change will make the intersection safer.

Ziggi’s Coffee will open a new drive-through at 8669 W.

29th St. N later this year—construction near 29th and Tyler Road has been noticed by local drivers. The shop will offer specialty coffees, teas, and other drinks.

Textron Aviation Defense will expand its Wichita production line to build a new training jet if it wins the UJTS contract—an expansion that could boost local industry.

The Navy will announce its award decision in January 2027—marking a key moment for Wichita's business growth.

Shield AI selected Newton City-County Airport for a new flight test facility that will lease about 10,000 square feet and three acres for testing its AI-piloted fighter jet; the project may create 30-to-60 full-time jobs and nearly $1 million in infrastructure improvements over the next few years. The Newton City Commission and Harvey County Commission approved the lease agreement for the project.

Somewhere Festival & Conference is set to switch to fall 2026 with dates on September 25-26 — following a 2025 event that drew over 15,000 visitors from many states, organizers plan new collaborations and more programming — more details will come next year.

The Federal Reserve cut its key rate on Wednesday to support economic growth and job creation even as inflation remained above the 2% target.

Most credit card users saw a 0.25% drop in their rates—Fed Chair Powell warned that further cuts are not guaranteed while auto lenders might soon pass savings on to car buyers.

Three small earthquakes were recorded in northern Kansas near Wilson Lake between 10:45 p.m. Tuesday and 12:15 a.m. Wednesday—magnitudes ranged from 2.7 to 3.5 and no damage was reported.

KU Health used artificial intelligence to improve breast cancer detection as part of the KWCH Breast Cancer Awareness Program—officials said the new tool was introduced yesterday to support early diagnosis.

The program is expected to help doctors detect cancer sooner—enhancing local care.

Spooky Splash & Treats Party

9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Check the website for costs — Dive into a Halloween-themed day of fun and treats for kids aged 7-12.

Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop

11 AM – 2 PM — Courtyard by Marriott Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Explore turning your travel passion into a profitable business opportunity.

Youth Basketball Clinic - Session I

6:30-7:15 p.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Registration closed — A fun and instructional basketball clinic for kids ages 5-6.

Marc Rebillet Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — Ticket prices vary — Experience the improvised meltdown of Marc Rebillet with special guest Capyac in an all-ages show.

Pre-School Exploratory Art & Sensory Class

10-11 AM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost not listed — A creative art and sensory exploration session for children aged 1-5.

Wichita Thunder vs. Utah Grizzlies

7:05-8:35 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Starting at $26 — Catch the thrilling puck drop as Wichita Thunder faces off against Utah Grizzlies.

Vintage Market Days of Wichita

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Wichita Sports Forum — Admission for children under 12 is free — Explore upscale vintage finds from art to home décor and enjoy a weekend of treasures.

Uncle Zep: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin

7-8:30 p.m. — Crown Uptown Theatre — Admission starting at $23 — Experience the polished perfection and passion of Uncle Zep as they pay tribute to the legendary Led Zeppelin.

Vintage Market Days of Wichita

10 AM – 4 PM — Wichita Sports Forum — Admission for children under 12 is free — Explore an upscale vintage market filled with art, antiques, and handmade treasures.

Chair Yoga Class

1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Enhance your strength, flexibility, and mindfulness with supportive chair yoga sessions.