Daily editionSaturday, December 20th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 20th of December.
Community
The Sedgwick County Zoo announced Friday that it euthanized its firstborn chimpanzee, Mwana, due to age-related complications, and staff remembered him for his playful, gentle nature + he was born Oct. 28, 1984.
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The American Legion Arthur Gossett Post 273 will host its annual Christmas Toy Giveaway Operation Polar Bear event Sunday, Dec. 21 from 2-5 p.m. (near 13th and Hydraulic), aiming to boost this year’s toy collection for local families without needing income proof.
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13-year-old Isaac Dyck honors his late father by entering Haysville's annual Christmas lights contest, running until Dec. 22.
He keeps cherished holiday traditions alive (and family memories strong) as his community rallies around his heartfelt tribute.
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Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita has added off-duty police officers and extra security resources after recent vehicle break-ins in the parking lot.
The church said the measure aims to protect worshippers during holiday celebrations (including Christmas).
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Business
Newks Eatery is now open in Wichita—welcoming customers today with a range of dishes crafted to suit local tastes.
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Boeing and SPEEA paused contract talks for more than 1,500 workers at the former Spirit Aerosystems facility in Wichita.
Negotiations will resume once both sides review key contract issues.
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Culture
Artist Lindsay Lord uses tactile quilts to tell her story with vision loss at Fisch Haus.
She hosts an artist talk and earthworm dance party tomorrow, Dec. 21, inviting community members to share in healing + creative expression.
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Santa read letters sent by Wichita children on Friday, Dec. 19, keeping a cherished holiday tradition alive in the community.
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Kansas museums have seen record-breaking visitor numbers as state programs spurred interest, with the Kansas Aviation Museum reporting its highest attendance year in 2024.
Museum leaders credited initiatives like the Sunflower Summer Program and family engagement for keeping interest strong.
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Education
Irving Elementary converted part of its campus into Santa's workshop on Friday, Dec. 19 to share holiday fun with students + families.
School staff believe the festive display will brighten the school community during the holiday season.
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Stone Creek Elementary hosted an Inflate-a-thon on the last day of the semester in Derby, letting teachers and staff race in inflatable costumes to celebrate student progress after assessments.
Principal Sandy Rusher said the fun event brought smiles to students and boosted school spirit.
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Health
Clearway Testing brings together community clinics and partners across Sedgwick County to offer free groundwater-related health testing for residents potentially affected by a past chemical spill.
Testing is available through the end of 2026 & a new public resource website will launch in early 2026.
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Wichita Events
Candlelight Christmas Special Featuring 'The Nutcracker'
Sunday, December 21st, 2025 · 8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening of classical music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit under candlelight.
Grinchy Heart Holiday Party
Monday, December 22nd, 2025 · 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost Not Specified — Celebrate the holiday spirit with fun activities for kids aged 7-12.
Christmas Eve & Christmas Night Celebration at Dockum
Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 · December 24-25 — Dockum — Seasonal cocktails available — Celebrate Christmas in a cozy speakeasy with crafted spirits and holiday charm.
La Petite Pause at The French Tearoom
Thursday, December 25th, 2025 · 12:30-1:30 p.m. — The French Tearoom — Pricing varies — Enjoy warm scones and carefully poured tea in a tranquil midday escape.
Wichita Thunder vs. Allen Americans
Friday, December 26th, 2025 · 7:05-8:35 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Tickets starting at $26 — Cheer on the Wichita Thunder as they face off against the Allen Americans in an exciting hockey match.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, December 29th, 2025 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience gentle chair yoga to enhance strength and flexibility while building community.
Paramount 80's Rock Night
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 · 8:30-10:00 PM — The Cotillion — All Ages — Celebrate New Year's Eve with a night of 80's rock featuring special guest Monterey Jack.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the calming benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting.
Tahoe Knight Monsters vs Wichita Thunder
Friday, January 16th, 2026 · 7:05-9:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Cost info not specified — Catch an exciting hockey match as the Tahoe Knight Monsters face off against the Wichita Thunder.
Concert by Tay Money
Saturday, January 17th, 2026 · 8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets available — Enjoy a live performance by Tay Money featuring her hit song 'Hood Still the Same'.