Daily editionFriday, December 26th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of December.
Community
Cessna Penguin Cove reopened on Christmas Day at Sedgwick County Zoo after repairs fixed damage from a crack and water leak.
The 23 penguins now reside behind custom-built windows as visitors enjoy the exhibit on an unusually warm day.
KWCHRead more
After a fire on Nov. 21 damaged his Park City home and many cherished Santa suits, Keith Jacob and his wife received overwhelming support from community members.
They are accepting online donations through GoFundMe & planning to rebuild while staying with family.
KSNRead more
The Wichita Fire Department warns residents of fire and electrical hazards during the busy holiday season, advising them to turn off lights and keep candles and extension cords away from heat sources — homes should have working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers to stay safe.
KSNRead more
Culture
ReCreate, a donations-based craft store at 5422 E. Central that opened in August, supports Wichita crafters by offering affordable supplies and donating proceeds to Always and Forever shelter — Coast-to-Coast Yarn Company in Revolutsia also offers open stitch hours for knitters to join a friendly community.
KMUWRead more
KMUW book queens Beth Golay and Suzanne Perez have announced the categories for the upcoming citywide Read ICT Challenge that will ask Wichita readers to finish a dozen books in 2026.
The report also highlights local craft stores where residents can find supplies to make winter projects + enjoy cozy evenings.
KMUWRead more
Education
Teacher Olivia Bazanos from Derby High School will march in the 2026 Rose Parade on Jan. 1 in Pasadena with the Band Directors Marching Band, sharing the experience with her Derby students—she previously marched with Bands of America and in the Macy’s Day Parade.
KSNRead more
Environment
Wichita recorded a record high on Christmas Day as locals enjoyed the unexpected warmth outdoors.
A photo gallery captured holiday moments with dogs at a local park.
KSNRead more
Lifestyle
Wichitans enjoyed a warm Christmas Day as many families flew kites at Jackson Elementary School plus took walks at Great Plains Nature Center; the unusual weather brought extra holiday cheer.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Kansas leaders struck a $4.5B public and private deal with the Chiefs on Dec. 22 to build a $3B domed stadium in Wyandotte County and a practice facility in Johnson County, with the stadium scheduled for Aug. 1, 2031 (STAR bonds repay without new taxes).
The VoiceRead more
Wichita Events
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'.
Time Travel Half-Marathon and 5k/10k
Sunday, January 18th, 2026 · 9 AM – 12 PM — Plum Shelter, 6501 W 21st St N, Wichita, KS — Unique referral code system for refunds — Lace up for a family-friendly dash through time with races for all ages.
Safe Sitter Baby-Sitting Course
Monday, January 19th, 2026 · 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Bring your own lunch — Learn essential babysitting skills in a fun and engaging environment.
East Carolina Pirates vs. Wichita State Shockers Men's Basketball
Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — Free t-shirt for early fans — Witness a thrilling basketball game while supporting mental health awareness.
Air Capital Hoopfest
Friday, January 23rd, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Newman University-Fugate Gymnasium — $15 for Adults, $8 for Kids, Students, and Seniors — Experience the excitement of top high school basketball with future stars competing for glory.