Events in Junction City, KS

An outdoor community gathering centered on the theme BE brings people together through art, music, movement, and connection. Activities include the BHS Brain Station at AJ’s Patio led by Wonder Workshop, sidewalk chalk stations for all ages, a Pie Walk by TheraPie in front of Gaia, and an Artist and Maker’s Faire, plus other activities along the street. Each edition is different. Volunteers help staff stations such as rock painting or guiding chalk artists. Makers, artists, entertainers, and performers can participate, with no fee unless selling items, in which case a per event or seasonal charge applies.

An open mic poetry night centered on creativity and community in a relaxed, supportive setting. Poets, writers, and appreciative listeners can take the microphone to share original work or favorite selections, or simply enjoy the readings with friends. Warm drinks and a comfortable atmosphere make it a welcoming place to relax and connect with others.

Next Stop Comedy brings a stand-up showcase to Manhattan Brewing Company with a different roster at every show. Expect top comedians, including performers with television and podcast credits, for a fresh mix of voices and laughs each time.

At Bill Snyder Family Stadium, K-State faces Tulane in a game day filled with traditions and special events. Harley Day amps up the energy as more than 100 motorcycles take a lap around the field shortly before kickoff. Those interested in participating can contact the Ahearn Fund for details. The game coincides with University Family Weekend, presented by the K-State Parents and Family Program, marking 97 years of welcoming families to campus with activities that include a pregame tailgate. The Pride of Wildcat Land Marching Band also hosts outstanding high school musicians from across the state for its annual All-Star Marching Band, with the ensemble performing at halftime.

Enjoy a family friendly evening of bingo with opportunities to win a prize. Games run at regular intervals throughout the event, offering multiple chances to play in a relaxed, social setting.

Understand and Empower: Monthly Cancer Education features Jayme Morris-Hardeman, Executive Director of Thrive!, leading a program focused on brain health. The conversation explores practical, everyday ways to support cognition, including movement, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and activities that keep the mind engaged. It is intended for adults at any point in the cancer experience, from new diagnosis to treatment to survivorship, as well as caregivers and anyone interested in maintaining a healthy brain. Participants can expect clear, actionable strategies to support cognitive wellness during and beyond cancer. This free session requires no registration and is open to adults across the Flint Hills region. For questions, call (785) 323-3878. Understand and Empower is a continuing series that informs, encourages, and connects adults affected by cancer, with each session focusing on a different topic such as treatment side effects, emotional wellness, nutrition, communication, caregiving, and self-care.

Late Night at the Zoo brings a laid-back evening to Sunset Zoo with exclusive barbecue from Smokin' H's Meats, adult beverages from Manhattan Brewing Co., and desserts plus more at the Expedition Cafe concession stand. Expect chilled beer, savory barbecue, and plenty of wild fun.

The Manhattan Kansas area Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group hosts its monthly meeting at College Avenue United Methodist Church, with an option to participate via Zoom for those who cannot attend in person. Daffney Kubler-Hoffman will present a short talk on the role of sleep hygiene in sleep problems, then there will be time for questions, conversation, and peer support. The group welcomes survivors of all ages as well as caregivers. Sharing is always optional and attendees are welcome to simply listen.

The Second City brings Laughing For All The Wrong Reasons to the McCain stage, a comedy showcase that blends cherished sketches and songs from its renowned archive with the quick-witted improvisation that has defined the company for generations. It revisits fan favorites with unforgettable characters, classic moments, and boldly irreverent humor shaped by influential voices such as Catherine O’Hara, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Amber Ruffin, Stephen Colbert, Tim Meadows, Bill Murray, Tim Robinson, Eugene Levy, Adam McKay, and more. An exceptional ensemble delivers laughs that hit harder because the truths behind them feel so familiar. Contains adult humor and is not appropriate for children under 13. Sponsored by Forvis Majars.

Now in its 27th year, the MCC Golf Classic is a scramble that supports Manhattan Christian College’s work in Christian leadership training. The tournament field is full. For inquiries, please contact Misti Reid at 785-539-3571. The entry fee is $175 per golfer and covers green fees, a cart, range balls, an awards barbecue, and an MCC moisture wicking cap. Part of the entry fee is tax deductible, and snacks with door prizes will be available during play. Hosted at Colbert Hills Golf Course in partnership with Bison Ridge Recycling, the event also offers several sponsorship options. Corporate sponsors at $5,000 receive four complimentary players, four MCC crewneck sweatshirts, on-site signage, and recognition on the website and social media. Event sponsors at $1,750 receive two players, two MCC crewneck sweatshirts, signage, and online recognition. Hole or tee sponsors at $400 receive one player, signage, and online recognition. Sand trap sponsors at $200 receive event signage and online recognition. Sponsors may also contribute 160 golfer appreciation items in exchange for recognition on the website and social media.

Experience a monthly contra dance at Green Valley Community Center. All levels are welcome, with a brief beginner or refresher walkthrough offered before the dancing begins. Music and the caller will be announced. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and teens, and free for children 12 and under. Please dress comfortably and wear clean shoes.

An Elks golf tournament at Rolling Meadows brings teams together for a four-person scramble with a shotgun start. Entry is $300 per team and includes lunch at the Junction City Elks Lodge. Early registration is reserved for Elks members, with general sign-ups opening afterward. All entries must be submitted by email, and the pro shop is not handling registration. Capacity is limited, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Get moving at the Praisefest 5K at CiCo Park in Manhattan, Kansas. This lively, community-centered event welcomes runners, walkers, and supporters alike, creating an uplifting atmosphere of movement, encouragement, and togetherness. Open to participants of every age and fitness level, it offers a positive start to the day whether you are aiming for a finish time or cheering from the sidelines. Registration is currently available, with early pricing offered for a limited period before rates go up.

The GCHS vintage car show returns with an old-fashioned ice cream social. The day features classic cars, hot food, and live music, along with a car arrival and coffee hour. The car show entry fee is a donation of the participant's choosing to the Geary County Historical Society. Live performances include the Kansas Brigade Band, the Junction City Middle School 8th Grade Advanced Choir, Pat Billington, and the Manhattan Mandolin Orchestra. Raffle prizes range from fresh pies to gift cards for Highwinds Brewing Company and Celestial Sweets bakery, with additional offerings available.

A quiet, book-loving meetup that invites readers to enjoy uninterrupted time with their own books in the cozy mezzanine at The Dusty Bookshelf. Bring whatever you are currently reading since there are no assigned titles or tasks, just a comfortable space to unwind with a page. After a stretch of silent reading, participants are welcome to share what they are into and gather recommendations from others. Drinks are available for purchase. Seating is upstairs in the mezzanine, so arriving early helps secure a favorite spot. Readers of all kinds are welcome, from occasional browsers to book-a-week regulars. Parking options include a nearby paid garage as well as free parking at City Park or on streets around Aggieville.

Meredith Willson’s The Music Man, the six-time Tony Award winning musical comedy, follows fast-talking salesman Harold Hill as he persuades the people of River City, Iowa to buy instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band he vows to create, even though he cannot tell a trombone from a treble clef. His scheme unravels when he falls for Marian, the town librarian, and by the final curtain he has changed into a more upstanding citizen. The score features favorites such as "Seventy- Six Trombones," "Trouble," "'Til There Was You," "Pickalittle," and "Gary, Indiana." This is a family-friendly story to share across generations. Sponsored by The Anspaugh Familyh.

Little Texas celebrates 35 years since its debut single Some Guys Have All the Love reached country radio and launched a standout run of 90s country hits. Known for writing their own material and playing on every record, the group built a signature sound with layered harmonies, guitar-forward arrangements, and plenty of energy. Their catalog features 12 Top 20 singles and a trio of consecutive No. 1 hits, including My Love, What Might Have Been, and the crowd favorite God Blessed Texas. With more than 7 million albums sold, the band became one of the decade’s most successful acts. The sophomore release Big Time earned double-platinum status along with Grammy, CMA, and ACM recognition, and the group received the 1994 ACM Award for Top Vocal Group. The legacy of God Blessed Texas continued in 2024 when Billboard ranked it No. 1 among country songs with Texas in the title, and Lainey Wilson opened the ACM Awards with her rendition. Sponsored by Edward Jones - Shelley Carver.

Enjoy a two day board game convention at the K-State Student Union that welcomes the entire community. Explore a library of more than 1,000 games, connect with vendors, enter giveaways, and take part in scheduled board game and TTRPG sessions. Early bird badges are available at a discounted rate, including $10 off a full weekend badge with the promo code EARLY. There are opportunities to volunteer, become a vendor, sponsor, or host a game, and volunteers and game hosts can receive a special discount.

This October fest car show features a wide range of vehicles, and the $25 entry fee is donated to the YMCA. Registration takes place first, the show follows, and an awards ceremony concludes the event. Participants receive a T-shirt and a dash plaque, and trophies crafted from customized car parts will be presented. Honors include first place and Top 25, with classes spanning Best of Show, Ford, GM, Mopar, Motorcycle, rat rod or hooptie, interior, paint, engine, truck, import, 2000 and up, and oldest year. For more information, contact Mike Dishman at 785 210 6763.

Actors From The London Stage presents Much Ado About Nothing, a favorite Shakespearean comedy that examines themes of identity, marriage, and how people communicate, all sparked by the lively verbal duels between Beatrice and Benedick. Romance, disguises, and comic mix ups keep the story moving while the clever banter takes center stage. This staging uses a cast of five who shift among multiple characters and work with a stripped down set of props so the words and action lead the way. Founded in 1975 at UC Santa Barbara by Homer "Murph" Swander and Sir Patrick Stewart, the company tours U.S. colleges twice a year and also offers classes and workshops that bring Shakespeare’s language into sharp focus. Sponsored by The Karate Club at Kansas State University.

The Eli Young Band performs live at McGraws Bar & Grill for a night of country music. Tickets are required.

K-State Football faces Houston at Bill Snyder Family Stadium as part of Celebrate Ag. The occasion spotlights Kansas State University’s agricultural heritage, beginning with its 1863 founding as Kansas State Agricultural College, and its distinction as the first land-grant university to open. Activities will emphasize ongoing leadership in education, research, and extension, as well as support for agricultural transformation and sustainability in Kansas, across the nation, and globally. Before the game, interactive stations will be available, and the program includes recognition of Kansas farmers and ranchers.

Student groups paint windows at Aggieville, and the artwork can be viewed afterward.

At Keats Park, this stamping session focuses on card making, and participants can create three or more cards. Admission is $10.00.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Manhattan Brewing Company with a fresh roster of performers at every show. The lineup features comedians seen on television and heard on podcasts.

A bittersweet farewell concert marks the final performance by Truck Stop Love. Fans of TSL and the MHK rock and roll scene will have one last opportunity to experience the band and acknowledge their long-standing connections within the community.

The Manhattan Kansas area Traumatic Brain Injury support group holds its monthly meeting at College Avenue United Methodist Church, with a Zoom option available for those joining from a distance. Survivors of all ages and caregivers are welcome. The meeting provides time for questions, exchanging advice, and peer support, and participation is always optional. A brief 10 to 15 minute presentation on a brain injury topic is typically included, though the speaker and subject for this session are still to be announced. For reminders or additional details, email TBIgroupMHK@gmail.com or send a Facebook message to the group.

Tee off for a great cause at a double-pin golf tournament benefiting the Shop with a Cop program for Geary County youth. Hosted at Rolling Meadows Golf Course, this four-person scramble puts everyone on the red tees for a fun twist that challenges teams to go as low as possible. The entry fee is $70 per golfer or $280 per team, and it includes greens fee, use of a cart, lunch, and a token for the practice range. Payouts will be awarded across three flights. Registration is available at Rolling Meadows Golf Course or the Junction City Police Department. For more information, contact Sgt. Borges at (785) 762-5912. All proceeds help make the holidays brighter for local children.

K-State Football takes on Oklahoma State at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.

The Baylor Bears visit the Kansas State Wildcats for a Big 12 women’s volleyball clash at Morgan Family Arena. With conference standings at stake, look for extended rallies, purposeful serving pressure, and quick adjustments at the net as both teams try to dictate the pace and ride momentum shifts. The action unfolds in Manhattan, Kansas, where every set carries weight in the league race.

Mrs. Doubtfire brings the beloved Scottish nanny to McCain Auditorium in a musical inspired by the cherished film, following an unemployed actor who goes to extraordinary lengths for his children. Hailed by critics from the Manchester Evening News, The Hollywood Reporter, and the Chicago Tribune for its warmth, laugh-out-loud humor, and family-friendly spirit, this production blends heart and hilarity while celebrating the idea that we are better together. Sponsored by The Trust Company.

Led by Erica Forbes, a Nurse Practitioner and wellness advocate, this community workshop offers a candid look at preventing burnout, the role of restorative rest, and proactive health practices. The session explores how ongoing stress, insufficient downtime, and an always-on pace can influence the body, mind, and the capacity to engage at work, at home, and in the community. Participants will take away practical strategies, sustainable self-care tools, and a clearer understanding of how prioritizing rest can support well-being and everyday performance. The conversation is designed for entrepreneurs, parents, professionals, caregivers, and anyone navigating a busy season who wants to reset before exhaustion takes hold.

TCU Horned Frogs travel to face the Kansas State Wildcats in a women’s volleyball match at Morgan Family Arena in Manhattan, Kansas. This Big 12 clash brings contrasting styles to the court, where serve pressure, clean first contact, and late-set decisions could determine the result. With both teams competing for position as the season tightens, momentum can swing quickly and every point carries added importance.

Logan Ryan Band brings a full-lineup performance to The Hat for a live show. Doors will open and the music will kick off with an opening act to be announced, followed by the band's set.

Now in its 46th year, the Buttons 'n Bows Arts and Crafts Fair brings together local makers and crafters for a large indoor shopping experience. Vendor coordination is handled by a single contact, and applications are accepted only through the official form. For questions about vending, send a message to the event page or email stevenpaulsignup14@gmail.com.

Browse one-of-a-kind arts and handmade crafts from more than 100 vendors at the National Guard Armory. Now in its 46th year, this holiday tradition in Manhattan, Kansas offers a full day of shopping for unique finds.

Mark the transition into the holiday season with a final weekend celebration featuring Undercover at RC McGraw's. Enjoy music from Undercover alongside food and drinks.

Participants can create three or more handmade cards during a friendly stamping session at Keats Park. The participation fee is $10.

Explore Meadowlark Market for a variety of goods, including furniture, jewelry, appliances, collectibles, and home decor. Sales support the Good Samaritan Fund and other projects. Items can be purchased with cash or credit card.

K-State Football faces Arizona at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The matchup serves as Senior Day, marking the final home game for Wildcat seniors. A pregame ceremony will recognize their dedication and contributions to K-State Football.

Shop a wide mix at Meadowlark Market, including collectibles, furniture, jewelry, appliances, and home decor. Sales help fund the Good Samaritan Fund and additional projects. Payment is accepted by cash or credit card.

Arizona heads to Manhattan to face Kansas State in a late-season showdown at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The two Wildcats programs bring differing styles and meaningful stakes as the season nears its end, all in a loud home-field setting. Tickets are available for those planning to attend in person.

A monthly contra dance takes place at Green Valley Community Center with live music by Open Band and a caller to be announced. Doors open before a beginner or refresher walkthrough, followed by the dance. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and teens, and children 12 and under are free. Wear comfortable clothing and clean shoes.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze presents an annual holiday tradition that blends Broadway-style storytelling with contemporary circus artistry for the whole family. Reimagined for 2026, this edition showcases holiday characters brought to life through performances that seem to defy gravity, along with original music, live vocals on refreshed versions of favorite seasonal songs, brand-new sets, vivid scenery, and striking costumes. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Sponsored by Kohlmeier Orthodontics.