Events in Salina, KS

Next Stop Comedy brings a stand-up showcase to Manhattan Brewing Company with a fresh roster of comedians at every show. Look for performers with television appearances and voices you may recognize from popular podcasts, all coming together for a lively night of laughs.

Spend time stitching at Floss & Needle in a relaxed come and go format. Stay for the whole session or stop by for just a portion, whatever works for you.

A free monthly meetup at Salina Art Center brings visual artists together to connect and build community. Creators working in any medium and at every skill level, from beginners to experienced professionals, are welcome. The setting encourages sharing work, learning from peers, and relaxed conversation over coffee. Coffee is provided.

A free in-store meetup focused on buying, selling, and trading sports cards and trading card game items, including Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Magic. It offers dedicated time to make deals and build collections at no cost to participate.

An in-state clash between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Kansas State Wildcats returns to Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan. Pride and bragging rights are at stake, with momentum swings and pivotal plays often shaping the result. This rivalry matchup typically stays close late into the fourth quarter, setting the stage for another intense chapter between these Kansas foes.

This recurring D&D Adventure League game night is free to attend and welcomes both experienced players and those learning the game. It offers a friendly, accessible setting to regularly gather and enjoy Dungeons & Dragons with a supportive community.

This event spotlights The House of the Spirits, a sweeping family saga that follows three generations through political upheaval and personal trials. At its heart is Esteban Trueba, a powerful patriarch whose relentless quest for wealth and control ultimately casts a long shadow. His wife, Clara, a clairvoyant whose gentle presence and supernatural insight offer a steady light, stands in vivid contrast to his brashness. Their daughter, Blanca, grows up amid social change as love, loss, and betrayal shape the family’s fate over decades. As history shifts around them, Esteban’s authoritarian drive leads to despair, while Clara’s gifts sustain a sense of hope. Praised by Cosmopolitan for its imaginative sweep and the immediacy of its characters, the novel provides rich ground for reflection and conversation.

A bittersweet goodbye as Truck Stop Love performs its final show. Celebrating years of camaraderie, this send-off is geared toward devoted TSL followers and fans of the MHK rock and roll scene. Tickets go on sale.

A playgroup for families with young children to explore a variety of sensory activities and materials together. Each gathering features different options, with past setups including blocks, balls, tubes, a seesaw, balance activities, puzzles, and sensory bins.

Comedian Grant Lyons visits The Village Geek for a lighthearted evening tied to the board game world. Board gamers, aspiring designers, and comedy fans in Manhattan, KS can look forward to a fun night with the chance to meet a notable personality from the hobby industry.

Browse a wide selection of gently used books and media at the Friends Fall Book Sale, taking place downstairs at Salina Public Library. Members receive an early access shopping period, followed by times open to the public, and there is one day with no sale. Donations of materials are welcome at the library’s circulation desk during regular hours, with a limit of one copy paper size box per week.

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.

Washington Irving’s eerie classic returns in a family-friendly staging adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller and presented in cooperation with Broadway RFD. This immersive traveling-audience production moves through the Museum’s historic Heritage Square, including the West Kentuck schoolhouse and the 1904 World’s Fair Swedish Pavilion, as Ichabod Crane vies with Brom Bones for Katrina’s favor in the tale that introduced the Headless Horseman. Distinct settings heighten the suspense, and the climax features a live horse and rider. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Pumpkin and Spice Holiday Bazaar is planned for Salina, Kansas. Vendors interested in participating can email Info@packagesforwarriors.org for details.

The Pumpkin and Spice Holiday Bazaar is coming, and vendors are being accepted now.

A costume-themed contra dance fills Green Valley Community Center with mysterious, spooky music from Grandpa Snazzy. Caller Josh Tucker will lead the dances, and a beginner or refresher walkthrough is available to help newcomers get started. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and teens, and children 12 and under attend for free. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and participants are asked to wear clean shoes.

Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is staged as a traveling audience production adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller and presented in cooperation with Broadway RFD. Scenes unfold throughout the museum’s Heritage Square, with stops at the West Kentuck schoolhouse and the Swedish Pavilion, for a spooky experience suited for families. The story follows schoolteacher Ichabod Crane as he vies for Katrina’s attention against Brom Bones in the classic tale that introduced the Headless Horseman. The climax features a live horse and rider. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Celebrate Halloween with the community at Salina Fieldhouse during a free, all-ages party filled with festive activities. Explore trick-or-treat stations hosted by local businesses and community partners, try your hand at carnival-style games, jump in bounce houses, enjoy face painting, capture memories in a photo booth, and get creative with crafts. Costumes are encouraged, and neighbors, families, and friends can share in this annual tradition together.

Now in its 24th year, this Aggieville tradition invites chili lovers to explore a friendly competition among 13 organizations. Attendees buy a ticket from the Optimist Club, visit each participating location to sample a variety of recipes, then cast a vote for their favorite. The top vote-getter earns an award and bragging rights. All proceeds benefit area youth programs, and the event is hosted by Optimist Club members. Participating stops include Buffalo Wild Wings, Cold Stone Creamery, Custom Woods Products, Full Circle Diner + Cocktails, Goolsby's, Happy Hippie, Kites Bar & Grill, Nico’s Little Italy, O’Malley's Alley, Porter's Bar, Riley County EMS, Riley County Police, and So Long Saloon and Taco Lucha. Support comes from Ghost Pepper Level sponsors Addair Law and McCown Gordon, Habanero Level sponsors Kohlmeier Orthodontics, Olsson, The Trust Company of Manhattan, ESB Financial, ICON Structures, PKMR Engineers, Briggs Auto Group, and Kansas Commercial, and Jalapeno sponsors Bank of the Flint Hills, Central National Bank, Commerce Bank, Community First National Bank, Duell Construction, GMCF, K-State Federal Credit Union, and KS State Bank.

Celebrate Halloween at the Monster Dash 5K in City Park, Manhattan. This community gathering features food trucks, local vendors, live music and festive activities, with costumes encouraged throughout the evening. The 5K welcomes athletes, families, friends and community members of all ages and abilities. Early bird registration is $25, increasing to $35 during race week, and all proceeds benefit Special Olympics Kansas to expand opportunities for athletes across the state. Registration is available through the QR code on the event flyer, and appreciation goes to the community partners who help bring the event to life.

Washington Irving’s classic receives a family-friendly staging in an adaptation by Kathryn Schultz Miller, presented in cooperation with Broadway RFD. This return performance unfolds as a moving, traveling-audience experience through the Museum’s Heritage Square, with scenes set at landmarks like the West Kentuck schoolhouse and the 1904 World’s Fair Swedish Pavilion. Follow the timid schoolmaster Ichabod Crane as he vies for Katrina’s favor against the brash Brom Bones, culminating in the legend that introduced the Headless Horseman. The climax features atmospheric settings and a live horse and rider. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Readers gather for a quiet Silent Book Club focused on simple, shared time with books. Start by grabbing a drink from The Dusty Bookshelf, then head to the mezzanine to choose a comfortable spot and settle in. Enjoy a peaceful stretch devoted entirely to reading whatever you like. Afterward, chat with others about what you are reading and swap recommendations, keeping spoilers in mind. There are no assigned titles, so bring your own book or pick one up while you are there. Seating is upstairs in the mezzanine, so arriving early helps you find a favorite place. All readers are welcome, whether you read occasionally or breeze through books regularly. Drinks are available for purchase. Parking is offered in a nearby paid garage, with free options at City Park or on the streets of Aggieville.

Salina Symphony’s book club discusses Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan, a novel that explores the relationship between Kay Swift and George Gershwin and highlights Swift’s artistry and influence on American music. The conversation reflects on Swift as a creative collaborator rather than a background figure, with Kaplan’s storytelling bringing renewed attention to her legacy. The book has been praised by Melanie Benjamin, a New York Times bestselling author, for its focus on this remarkable musician.

This annual trunk-or-treat, organized by the PTA, takes place in the parking area on the east side.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a costume for a trunk or treat gathering at the Wesley Center Parking Lot in Manhattan, Kansas. Children visit each trunk to collect candy and prizes. To support Cats' Cupboard and help feed the community, attendees are asked to bring specifically requested donations, including condiments such as ketchup, mustard, relish, and mayonnaise, as well as vegetable oil, sugar, canned tomatoes, dinner mixes like Hamburger Helper and Rice-A-Roni, ramen, toothpaste, body wash, deodorant, and cereal in full boxes.

Step into an in-store Halloween costume contest at Poppy & Vine and make a memorable entrance. To take part, bring a donated feminine hygiene item, there is no cash entry fee. Categories include Best in Show, Halloween Hottie for the hot girl Halloween queen, Best DIY or Crafted for looks made entirely at home or thrifted, Best Squad which requires entering with at least three others, Teen Spirit for ages 13 to 17, and Best Kids for ages 12 and under. Prizes are being announced, with confirmed rewards such as free tickets to Practical Magic 2 for the winning squad, an Arcade Day gift card for the Teen Spirit winner, and a Play Day gift card for the Best Kids winner. Bring your boldest ideas and go all out.

Presented by the Scoot-A-Boot Country Dancers Association, this Halloween-themed dance welcomes the public for an evening of country favorites and festive fun. The music, curated by DJ Debbie, will keep Two Step, Waltz, Cha Cha, and line dance fans on the floor. Admission is by donation. A cash bar will be available, and attendees may bring a snack to share. Costumes are optional, and four best dressed awards will be presented.

At Theatre Salina, this celebration spotlights women who inspire others, lead with purpose, and drive positive change in the community. The program focuses on recognizing their achievements and contributions, creating a meaningful evening of appreciation and celebration.

Straight No Chaser performs in a show welcoming attendees of all ages. Doors open before the performance begins, and both the announcement and ticket on-sale dates are already scheduled.

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

Salina Crossroads Marathon offers race options for a wide range of participants, including a kids fun run, 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon. To celebrate the 5th anniversary, entries for any distance are available for $5 or less, with the option to purchase a race shirt for an additional charge. After that, fees shift to a simple $1-per-mile structure, with the kids fun run at $1, the 5K at $3, the 10K at $6, the half marathon at $13, and the marathon at $26. Shirts remain optional for an extra fee.

Salina Crossroads Marathon features a full slate of distances, including a marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and a Kids Fun Run, and is promoted as Kansas’s most runner friendly marathon. Marking its fifth year, the event offers accessible pricing and introduces a new division for adaptive athletes with categories for mobility impaired, visually impaired, push-rim, and handcycle participants. Standard registration uses a simple $1-per-mile structure, with fees set at $1 for the Kids Fun Run, $3 for the 5K, $6 for the 10K, $13 for the half marathon, and $26 for the marathon. There is also an option with entries priced at $5.00 or less across all distances, including $1 for the Kids Fun Run and $3 for the 5K. Race shirts are optional and may be purchased separately.

This event is Series 3, Match 3 of the Treasure Chest Guns Indoor Shooting League, featuring a GSSF Indoor League competition for the GLOCK community. It is open to GLOCK owners of any experience level, from first-time gun owners to seasoned professionals. To qualify for prizes, competitors need to participate in at least two of the three matches that make up this series coordinated by the host range. Registration is available only at the host location.

Drop in for a relaxed stitching get together at Floss & Needle. It features a flexible format, so arrive and leave when it works for you. Settle in for the entire gathering or stop by for a short visit.

Oklahoma State heads to Manhattan to take on Kansas State in a Big 12 showdown at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Expect hard-nosed, well-drilled football, where field position is vital and outcomes are often settled in the closing minutes. With the conference race tightening, this matchup becomes a telling read on depth, timely coaching tweaks, and poise in a demanding road setting.

M31 performs with the full band in a free live set rooted in rock and blues, creating a party atmosphere open to all.

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.

Afro-Cuban jazz pianist Ignacio Nachito Herrera returns to Salina for a concert at the Historic Stiefel Theatre, bringing virtuosic energy to a program that spotlights rhapsodies and a beloved concerto. The music includes Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 and Michael Schachter’s Being and Becoming, a rhapsody for piano and orchestra created to mark the centennial of Rhapsody in Blue, interweaving classical refinement with jazz-driven rhythms. On the second half, Herrera takes the spotlight in Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 for a performance of sweeping emotion and brilliant power. Season subscriptions are available at $240 or $270 for adults and $135 for students, with a two-for-one offer for new subscribers that provides two subscriptions covering six Mainstage concerts. Season tickets can be secured through the Salina Symphony Office or by calling 785-823-8309. Support for this event is provided by Tom and Maggie Hemmer, Roger Morrison, and the Salina Arts and Humanities Horizons Grants Program.

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.

During busy seasons, responsibilities can pile up and people often power through fatigue without recognizing its impact on health, creativity, and energy. This community wellness workshop, led by Erica Forbes, a nurse practitioner and wellness advocate, opens an honest conversation about preventing burnout by prioritizing rest and practicing preventative health. The session explores how persistent stress, too little downtime, and the pressure to stay constantly available influence the body and mind and shape the ability to be present at work, at home, and in the community. Those who take part gain realistic wellness strategies, tools for sustainable self care, and a clearer sense of how restorative rest can strengthen personal well being and everyday performance. The material is relevant to entrepreneurs, parents, professionals, caregivers, and anyone moving through a hectic stretch, with a focus on resetting before burnout 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.

This mobile food distribution takes place in the parking lot of the Chester E. Peters Recreation Complex and welcomes members of the K-State and Manhattan communities. Food is available at no cost, and distribution continues while supplies last. Participants may arrive by car for a drive-up lane or on foot to use a walk-up line.

Logan Ryan Band brings a full-band performance to The Hat. Doors open before the show, and the music begins with an opener to be announced, followed by the band’s live set.

M31 Acoustic brings a live set to Bottle Caps Sports Bar in Manhattan, featuring free live music and plenty of Super Love Hugs for everyone.

Local artisans and craft vendors come together for the largest indoor shopping event. Vendor coordination is handled by a single contact, and applications are accepted only through the designated form. Questions or vendor inquiries can be sent via a message to the event page or by email at stevenpaulsignup14@gmail.com.

This beloved Manhattan, KS holiday tradition offers a full day of browsing unique arts and crafts from more than 100 vendors.

This event offers one more weekend of fun as the holiday season approaches, featuring music by Undercover at RC McGraw's. Food and drinks accompany the music.

Geared toward adult creatives, this relaxed workshop offers a social way to learn a craft that honors the prairie. Guided by horticulturist and retired Blueville Nursery retail manager Nancy Wesley, participants create native holiday wreaths while sipping wine and working side by side.

At the Historic Stiefel Theatre in Salina, KS, young musicians take center stage as the Youth Symphony, Youth Jazz Band, Youth String Ensemble, and Preparatory Orchestra share a program that showcases their skill and hard work. The concert also fosters growth by giving performers valuable stage experience and recognition within the community. Sponsored by The Supply Company. Tickets go on sale soon.

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

K-State Football squares off with Arizona on Senior Day, the final home game at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. A pregame ceremony will honor Wildcat seniors, recognizing their commitment and lasting contributions to the program.

Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a wintry running event at Frosty Fun Runs. Participants can choose the Chilly 10K for $35, or $23 without a shirt, the Frosty 5K for $30, or $18 without a shirt, the Merry Mile for $25, or $13 without a shirt, and the Kid's Santa Sprint for $10. Expect lively DJ music, free cookies and hot chocolate after the race, and live results available on mobile and Facebook. One hundred percent of entry fees directly support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina. Registration is available through the event flyer via QR code. Event times are subject to change.

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.

Part of the Centered Self series, this session focuses on the sacral chakra, the energetic center connected to pleasure, passion, and authentic self expression. Through an immersive mix of mindful practices and guided movement, it supports the release of emotional blocks, helps you reconnect with your natural rhythm, and deepens your relationship with your body. Expect a gentle, flowing experience that nurtures creativity and embodied awareness.

A festive 5K Turkey Trot takes place in Aggieville, Manhattan. It continues a local family tradition, and nearly 1,300 people registered last year.

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.

At the Salina Art Center, the opening reception for Mnemonic Resonances presents artist Daniel Picking’s monumental canvases, intricately cut by hand. As light passes through these surfaces, color and shadow spill across the gallery, so the environment becomes part of the artwork. The installation explores how memory reshapes the spaces we inhabit, encouraging thoughtful attention to shifting perceptions and place. Presented in downtown Salina.

A lively market brings together talented makers, local flavors, and live entertainment in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Browse more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, including an additional building introduced for 2026, with outdoor tent areas adding to the festive feel. Handmade creations abound, from pottery and woodworking to glass art, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and more crafted by artisans and makers from Nova Scotia. Food trucks operate both days, and there are plenty of treats to enjoy, including baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, beverages, and local wines. Admission includes a weekend wristband. Only service dogs are allowed inside buildings, and bringing cash is recommended. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.

A community collaboration between Abilene Parks and Recreation, Amanda's Bakery and Bistro, the Abilene Convention and Business Bureau, and Driving Dickinson County brings a festive holiday light competition paired with a charitable Cruise for Food. Residents within the Abilene city limits can enter their decorated homes for free, with space limited to 20. Community members can support local families by donating a food item at Abilene Food & Clothing to receive a ballot that includes a map of the participating displays. Tour the entries, choose a favorite, and return the completed ballot to Amanda's Bakery and Bistro. All donations stay in the community and are shared between the Food Pantry and Neighbor to Neighbor to assist families during the season and beyond. Winners will be announced at Little Ike Park.

A festive lighted parade in McPherson features a pre-parade scene with sweet treats, dinner options, and a variety of food truck and vendor offerings, followed by a show. Enjoy the tasty selections and lively atmosphere before the illuminated procession takes to the street.

Victoria Campbell brings an intimate acoustic performance to Rackets Tap House in downtown Abilene, creating a cozy, laid-back atmosphere for an easygoing night of live music.

Griff and Rachel make their return to Trudy's for an evening of live music.

Presented in partnership with Ballet Salina, this production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker welcomes audiences into Clara’s Christmas Eve dream as the Salina Symphony performs alongside more than 80 dancers. The cherished score comes to life onstage with Clara and the Nutcracker at the heart of the story, creating a family friendly tradition. Single tickets are available through the Stiefel Theatre Box Office, and season subscriptions are on sale through the Salina Symphony office or by phone. Season prices are $240 or $270 for adults and $135 for students. A buy one, get one free offer is available for new subscribers and covers two subscriptions to six Mainstage concerts. Sponsors include Bennington State Bank and JRI Hospitality.

Presented in partnership with Ballet Salina, this staging of Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker tells the tale of a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream. Clara and the Nutcracker step into the spotlight as the Salina Symphony performs and a cast of over 80 dancers brings the music to life. Sponsors include Bennington State Bank and JRI Hospitality. Single tickets and season subscriptions are available. Season packages are priced at $240 or $270 for adults and $135 for students, and new subscribers can take advantage of a two for one deal that covers two subscriptions to six Mainstage concerts.

This stamping session with friends focuses on handmade card making, with participants creating three or more cards. The cost is $10.00.

At McCain Auditorium, The Midtown Men, featuring alumni from the Broadway hit Jersey Boys, present a festive program of songs and stories. Holiday Hits showcases seasonal favorites such as "Winter Wonderland", "Let It Snow", and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", paired with the group’s signature versions of 1960s rock and roll classics. The set nods to The Beatles, The Temptations, The Four Seasons, and more. They also perform their single "All Alone on Christmas", recorded with Stevie Van Zandt and members of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. Sponsored by Meadowlark Hills.

Curious kids in kindergarten through second grade can dive into hands-on experiments and creative activities at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. This Camp Discover session focuses on celebrations across the globe, helping young learners explore the many ways people mark important moments in their lives. Designed to inspire curiosity and creativity, the program offers interactive experiences tailored to early elementary students throughout the school year.