Events in Topeka today

Celebrate the Tall Corn Festival 2026 at Rossville Community Library in Rossville, Kansas. The page lists the festival date as August 8, 2026.

Explore the Breadbasket Farmers Market and visit the many vendors throughout the market. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the air, and visitors may be able to grab a latte or hot chocolate while browsing.

In the heart of Downtown Lawrence, the farmers market features farm-fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, coffee, meats, and artisan wares, all sourced from Kansas vendors located within 50 miles. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, and there is always something new to discover with the changing seasons. Shopping here does more than fill a basket. Each purchase supports small farms and local makers, offers a clear connection to where your food comes from, helps reduce environmental impact, strengthens the local economy, and builds community with neighbors. Summer adds extra reasons to explore, with weekly kids activities such as a Kids Scavenger Hunt, special events, nutrition incentive programs for SNAP users, and a Loyalty Card Program that rewards frequent shoppers.

At the Downtown Farmers Market of Manhattan, kids ages 4 to 12 can take part in a summer series held across 12 Saturdays. Participants earn tokens they can use to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from market vendors, and a different activity each week helps them discover the Power of Produce. Registration is available at the on-site booth, and advance sign up can also be completed online.

A community outreach health and cancer screening hosted by Kansas Masons, Orient-Topeka Lodge #17, The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus, and the Masonic Cancer Alliance offers free prostate and skin cancer screenings, take-home colorectal cancer screening kits, education about genetic testing, and radon home test kits while supplies last. Mammograms are available with registration; if you have insurance the exam will be billed to your plan, and if you do not, the Masonic Cancer Alliance will cover the cost. Anyone may attend, people of all ages are welcome, and insurance is not required. The event takes place at The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus.

Clear out unwanted gadgets at a free electronics recycling event hosted by the City of Lawrence at Douglas County Fairgrounds. Free and open to Douglas County residents, with sponsorship from Teknix Solutions, this event offers a safe, responsible way to recycle devices, protect personal data, and keep e-waste out of the landfill. Many items that plug in or have a cord are accepted, including computers, laptops, speakers, keyboards, mice, servers, printers, microwaves, TVs, gaming systems, light fixtures, stereos, radios, phones, audio and video equipment, lab equipment, cables, battery backup systems, monitors and other small appliances. Some televisions and monitors have a fee of $40 each for CRT TVs, CRT monitors and projection TVs, and $10 each for LCD TVs and monitors. Teknix Solutions accepts cash, PayPal or Venmo for these fees, and credit or debit cards are not accepted. Not every electronic item is eligible, so review the full accepted items list before loading your vehicle. Questions can be posted in the discussion.

Set out on a guided hike that highlights nearby trails and parks. Along the way, a guide will share insights about each place, touching on its history, significance, environment, and natural beauty. Registration is requested to help track attendance. Come prepared for outdoor paths with comfortable shoes and plenty of water.

An outdoor vendor market celebrates the back to school season with local vendors and tasty bites. Explore unique finds and enjoy delicious food as you browse the booths.

The Community Fair brings Manhattan-area non-profits and businesses together in one place. Attendees can discover new initiatives, explore volunteer roles, access community resources, and learn about local job opportunities.

A community marketplace at West Ridge Mall brings together local vendors and companies to benefit the community, with the event supporting Cappers.

Head to the Watkins Museum to look for SemiQuinn the Bison, the official mascot of the Kansas 250 Commission. Find SemiQuinn in the galleries to win a prize, then post a photo on Instagram and tag @SemiQuinntheBison. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday while exploring the museum.

A Million Thanks seeks volunteers to prepare thousands of handwritten letters before they are shipped to deployed service members overseas. Participants will open, sort, and screen messages so every letter is ready to reach someone who may be far from home. Capacity is limited to 12 volunteers, and an RSVP is requested.

At Westport Animal Clinic, this group class welcomes dogs of any age who are new to training alongside other dogs. It begins with an initial session and then meets at the same time once a week for four weeks. Pre-enrollment is required, as classes do fill up. Registration is completed through the organizer’s website.

Hit the sand at 785 Dive for a blind draw coed 4s beach volleyball tournament that mixes up teammates each set. Players register individually, and for every set you will be paired with at least two new teammates, creating plenty of chances to meet new people and build connections. Competition is round robin pool play with no bracket, and the champions are the players who finish with the most sets won by the end of the night. Matches use a coed net height, teams field two men and two women, and a minimum number of games is guaranteed. Standard sand volleyball rules apply, with no open hand tips, servers rotating in order, and directional blocking allowed. Setting doubles are called at the A level and not called at the B level, with further details covered at the captains meeting. The entry fee is $20 per player. Outside food or drinks are not permitted, and attendees are encouraged to support the bar and kitchen.

India Mela and Evergy Plaza team up to celebrate Indian culture with a great mix of food, music, and more. The event is free and pet-friendly, so you can come enjoy the festivities in a welcoming atmosphere.

This night race rolls out with a sign-in period, followed by structured practice for Red Rookies and then Blue Rookies. A meeting for handlers takes place next, and racing gets underway after that.

Settle in with a lawn chair, lace up your dancing shoes, and get ready for a lively evening that blends live blues rock with art and community. Presented by Matryoshka Tattoo, this all-ages show spotlights Polly O’Keary with a high-energy trio known for soulful vocals, nimble bass grooves, and head-turning guitar. The group has toured nationally more than ten times, released four acclaimed albums, earned nominations for Independent Blues Music awards in Band, Album, and Song of the Year, and was named Blues Band of the Year by LA Music Critic. Their songs have reached number one on contemporary blues radio, their albums have climbed to number four on the charts, they have appeared on the Living Blues charts, and the musicians have earned 26 honors from regional blues societies across categories including songwriting, guitar, drums, vocals, and bass. Expect tight chemistry, catchy writing with plenty of drive, and a set built to make you move.

Celebrate with The BASH at a party.

An evening group ride sets out at an easy, no-drop pace for roughly 13 miles round trip. The route follows the Shunga Trail toward the Skyline Trails on Burnett’s Mound, with lights brightening the path and a relaxed atmosphere. Riders will weave through the trails and pause at the north summit for a group photo under the stars with views of Topeka’s night skyline, then return along the same path. Participants should bring bright front and rear lights, a helmet, a reliable bike, and water. The group stays together so no one is left behind. Going ahead is fine, although the emphasis is on riding as a group and enjoying the night. Everyone is welcome.

Organized by the Topeka Crochet and Knit Guild, the Yarn Adventure Summer Tour makes a stop in Topeka with a setup at Kaw Valley Bank.

A free Back to School Open House at Topeka Elite Cheer offers families a chance to explore the gym and its programs. Guests can meet coaches and staff, tour the facility, watch athlete demonstrations, enjoy games and activities with giveaways and prizes, and take photos while learning about options for every age and skill level. Programs include preschool tumbling and tiny cheer, recreational tumbling, cheer classes, jumps and flexibility, handspring and tuck classes, stunting, intro to all-star cheer, all-star cheer, the new all-star dance, and TEC Fit classes for kids and adults. Exclusive enrollment specials are available only during the event. Admission is free, with an RSVP requested.

At Doughboyz, kids can perform music, jokes, dancing, tricks, and other talents in front of an encouraging crowd. The focus is on creativity and confidence, giving children a chance to showcase what they can do and build self esteem. If the weather is poor, the event moves indoors. Arriving early can help with seating.

Find quality local produce, eggs from nearby farms, baked goods, freshly cut flowers, and bedding plants. It offers a refreshing start to the week, and the selection expands as the season progresses, bringing new options over time.

Step into a dinosaur-themed adventure in a maze designed for families, where each turn reveals how these prehistoric creatures lived. Use your dinosaur knowledge to navigate the route, and tackle active stations such as a climbing wall and a zip line. Learn how paleontologists investigate the past, then try it yourself. Kids can uncover dinosaur bones in a gallery dig site and design their own dinosaurs. This hands-on art exhibit for children is supported in part by The Library Foundation with contributions from the Sabatini Family Foundation, and it was created by Minotaur Mazes, which specializes in interactive educational maze exhibits.

Bonkers features family-friendly specials that combine play and pizza. Children can explore the Play Maze for $5, and pizza lovers can enjoy a buy one, get one offer. It is an easy way to pair active fun with an affordable bite in a single stop.

Table tennis at the SRC offers an inviting option for older adults, with movements that are easy on the body while sharpening balance, coordination, and focus. The game supports play at any age... Kansas City’s Bill Guilfoil even competed in the Olympic Trials at 93. This club welcomes newcomers and experienced players alike. Play may be singles or doubles based on how many people are there, and pairings will take skill level into account so everyone gets a good match.

Participants practice a gentle form of Qi Gong that pairs slow, range of motion exercises with intentional breathing to encourage circulation and ease stiffness in muscles and joints. The practice aims to improve balance, help lower the risk of falls, and support bone strength. Instruction is provided by SRC Qi Gong instructor Linda Dean. No registration is needed, and beginners are welcome.

Designed with seniors in mind, this gentle yoga class focuses on building strength and improving flexibility. Most movements take place while seated in a chair, with a few poses that use a wall for balance, and options are available to suit all fitness levels. The fee is $30 for an eight week session, and participants bring their own yoga mat. The class is currently full. To be added to the waiting list, contact Kim at 785-856-0203.

An informal Death Café brings people together for open conversation about death over tea and cake. There is no charge, and all ages are welcome. This community format has taken root around the world. For more information, contact Janet at 785-842-0543 or srccontact@dgcoks.gov. Co-sponsored by SRC and the Visiting Nurses Association. After all, talking about death will not kill you.

This open recruitment event centers on youth leadership supported by adult mentors. Adults lead leadership training grounded in Scouting America, and Scouts in leadership positions learn to create plans for small groups so they can guide and prepare the next person to lead.

Senior artists gather to work on their own pieces alongside peers. Bring your current project and the supplies you need, trade techniques, and show what you are creating while you continue your work. You are welcome to come and go at any time. For information, call 785-842-0543.

Caregivers and their little ones, ages 0 to 18 months, can take part in a 45-minute guided class centered on connection, community, and coffee. The session blends gentle stretching for adults and babies, lively music and movement, and sensory play matched to each child’s stage of development. Guided discussion prompts give grownups time to share and learn from one another, and the gathering wraps up with engaging touches like simple games, puppets, or a short story. This program is designed specifically for babies under 18 months and their caregivers, and older siblings do not participate. It offers a warm, relaxed setting where early learning and bonding thrive, coffee in hand.

Join in for Community Storytime at the NOTO Redbud Pavilion. There will be stories, songs, and fun activities designed to build early literacy skills. This program is geared toward kids ages 3 to 5.

These trainer-guided walks give dogs practical experience in public places while strengthening focus, confidence, and calm behavior. Participants practice in everyday environments like cafes, streets, and parks, learning to handle distractions, wait patiently, and follow cues consistently. Each session offers hands-on coaching for handlers and their dogs, building the core skills needed for effective public access training.

An acoustic jam welcomes musicians at every skill level to collaborate and play together in a relaxed, supportive setting. Bring an instrument such as guitar, bass, banjo, fiddle, ukulele, or keyboard and take part in a song circle where participants rotate leading tunes. The session is guided by local musician Orval Engling and focuses on Blues, Americana, Country, and Pop, with space to share original songs as well. Those who prefer to listen can sit outside the circle and enjoy the music. For more information, email kluce@DgCoKs.gov.

Find a new construction challenge at the Kansas Children's Discovery Center as Discovery Center educator Laboratory Lainey guides a hands-on building activity that nurtures creativity and problem solving. Regular admission applies: $11 for adults and children, $10 for seniors 65 and older, and free for infants under 12 months and Discovery Center members. Admission also includes access to over 30,000 square feet of indoor exhibits and the 4.5 acre certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom.

Enjoy a family-friendly night at Cosmos Pizza with a $30 package that covers a large 16 inch pie cut into eight slices with one protein topping and as many fresh veggies as you like, two small salad bar servings, and up to four small build-your-own sundaes or cones. Children's drinks are $1.50 and include one free refill for guests 10 and under. There is also a dinner deal on Tuesdays for $11 that features an individual pizza with one protein and as many fresh veggies as you like, a small salad bar, and a small sundae.

This event brings people together for a trail outing where participants can choose to run or walk. The group meets up and then heads onto the trails together.

Bring whatever you create to Lawrence Public Library and spend time with fellow creatives while you work on your works in progress. Focus on your project, meet other creatives, and enjoy making alongside others.

This meeting brings together a dedicated group of adult men and women living in sobriety. Participants concentrate on exploring 12 Step principles and on formalizing interactive cognitive thinking reports through discussion. The atmosphere is mature and focused on continued sobriety.

Evergy Plaza and the Topeka Yoga Network of Downtown Topeka host a free, beginner friendly yoga class with an emphasis on strength and stability. Bring your own mat and blocks. Water features will be running during the session, and participants can choose to practice in the water or stay dry. Packing a towel or two is recommended. Expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on simple breathing and movement.

Chick-fil-A Manhattan presents Story Time paired with a craft activity.

Give your week a boost at Bonkers with games at half the usual price, making it easier to collect extra tickets and prizes. A simple arcade pick me up that stretches your play and adds a little midweek fun.

A dedicated quilting group gathers each week to create quilts that are given to people experiencing crisis or moving into long-term housing in the community. Every piece is made from donated materials, and finished quilts are delivered by the group’s volunteers. No experience is required. Newcomers can learn on the spot, or simply enjoy conversation and connection. Open to all.

Enjoy pizza by the slice for $3.

Presented by Morris Laing Law Firm, this downtown Topeka gathering features live music, a selection of local food trucks, splash pad fun for families, and casual lawn games. It offers a relaxed way to step outside, enjoy the open air, and savor a break in the heart of the city.

The SRC Bridge Club offers a weekly bridge game in a relaxed setting. Newcomers and experienced players are welcome. It is less competitive than duplicate bridge, and no partner is required.

A football picnic featuring Coach Lance Leipold takes place at Big Gage Shelter House. Admission is $15 per person, and the buyer must be a 2026 Topeka Jayhawk Club member. A reservation is necessary, and tickets need to be purchased by the deadline. Those who are not members may obtain a Topeka Jayhawk Club membership by calling Rosie Cooper at 785-817-3047. A barbecue meal and bottled water are provided, and attendees may bring small coolers with beverages of their choice.

A practice session at Knox Field is planned, and the weather forecast looks good for a comfortable experience.

MRC and Manhattan Brewing Co. team up for a recurring social run that blends community, movement, and post-run camaraderie. The outing starts and finishes at Manhattan Brewing Company, where participants set off together for a friendly group run, then regroup afterward to relax and enjoy drinks. Participation is free, all paces and experience levels are welcome, and the focus is on connecting with fellow runners and beer fans in a laid-back setting.

Indie folk duo Missourado makes its Lawrence debut at Replay Lounge, joined by local artists Tyler Gregory and Small Birds of Sound. Admission is $5.

Wacky Wednesday features $2 admission, $2 skate rental, and $2 Skate Mate rentals, with speed skates and inlines excluded from the rental offer. Concessions are also $2 each, including a hotdog, a slice of pizza, a 16oz soda, and popcorn. A glowing binky is available for $2 as well.

Knitting Night is a weekly meetup at The Dusty Bookshelf where anyone can settle in with a personal project. Participants span every age and experience level, from college students and young parents to veteran crafters. Work on whatever you like, including knitting, crochet, embroidery, quilting, or cross-stitch, in a welcoming setting. No RSVP is required.

The LMH Health Diabetes Education Center hosts a free monthly Diabetes Education Support Group that offers practical education and encouragement for people living with diabetes and the loved ones who support them. Participation is available in person at the LMH Health Main Campus in Conference Room D-North or online via Zoom. Topics for 2026 include diabetes burnout and stress management, preventing and managing illness, understanding diabetes labs, traveling with diabetes, and navigating holidays and recipes. To reach Conference Room D-North at the Main Campus, go to the lower level and follow the carpeted hallway signs to the conference rooms, where D-North is the final room. For reminders and Zoom access details, call 785-505-3062 or email James.Florez@lmh.org or Kim.McAuley@lmh.org.

Astronomy Associates of Lawrence and the KU Field Station host a Perseid meteor shower watch at the KU Field Station. In addition to meteor viewing, the night features telescope views of other sights in the summer sky.

Step into an interactive dinosaur adventure at the library’s Alice C. Sabatini Gallery. Move through a fun maze of activities while learning dinosaur facts and discovering evidence as you play the role of a junior paleontologist. There’s also a chance to explore why dinosaurs were such successful survivors in Earth’s history, plus a “shocking discovery” to uncover along the way.

Pause the games for a moment and treat yourself to something tasty. On Thursdays at Bonkers, every burger is half price, making it easy to refuel before getting back to the fun.

Add funds to your game card and stretch your playtime with a spend-matching offer from Bonkers. Put $25 to $75 toward gameplay and Bonkers will contribute the same amount, matching your purchase up to $75. Enjoy more games, extra tickets, and plenty of excitement as you make the most of your time.

This Qi Gong group centers on slow, intentional movements paired with mindful breathing. The practice supports steadier balance, helps lower the chance of falls, and encourages bone strength. Flowing range-of-motion work with breath can boost circulation and relieve stiffness in muscles and joints. The class is led by SRC Qi Gong instructor Linda Dean. No registration is required and beginners are welcome. For questions, email kluce@dgcoks.gov.

Bring a cup of coffee and the project you have underway for a relaxed gathering of seniors who enjoy fiber arts. Chat, laugh, and unwind while you knit or crochet, embroider or cross-stitch, work needlepoint or macrame, or explore another fiber craft alongside others. It is a friendly space to make progress on your handiwork and connect with people who share your interests. Everyone from beginners to seasoned makers is welcome. For details, contact Kim at 785-856-0203 or kluce@dgcoks.gov.

Cousins Maine Lobster brings its truck to Tractor Supply Co in Manhattan, Kansas, featuring a new Lobster Roll Flight. Payment is cashless, with debit or credit cards and Apple Pay accepted. Order ahead through the mobile app for day-of posted events. The app opens at least one hour before each truck event once the previous event has finished, and app orders can earn points toward rewards. If the app is limited or unavailable, you can place your order directly at the truck. The full menu is available on the company website.

A new weekly dominoes game takes place in the SRC game room. It welcomes players of all experience levels and offers fast paced, interactive play. For questions, contact Kim at 785-856-0203 or kluce@dgcoks.gov.

Her Cancer Collective offers a welcoming space for women at any stage of the cancer experience, from a new diagnosis to treatment to life after cancer. The meeting focuses on genuine conversation, mutual encouragement, and building community that lifts one another up. Registration is not required, and bringing a journal is encouraged. Information about the Meadowlark Cancer Program and its mailing list is available.

Join a community storytime with stories, songs, and fun activities designed to help build early learning skills and a love of reading. This program is geared for children ages 3 to 5.

A weekly downtown concert brings a festival vibe with live music and a range of food options. Bring a lawn chair, get comfortable, and enjoy performances from excellent bands throughout the show.

Replay Lounge presents an early show bringing together Angel in the Attic, Phasers To Kill, and Sicklid. The cover is $5, and everyone is welcome since it is all ages.

Studio Specialist Matt Pelsma leads a guided look at The Orchid from Telepathic Instruments, demonstrating creative possibilities and ways to make sounds with this distinctive instrument. Learn practical ideas for exploring its capabilities and see what it can do in action.

Into the Gray brings a brief set to Evergy Plaza in Topeka. This Kansas City band blends Latin, blues, reggae, and rock into a distinctive sound shaped by Kansas City drummer Kent Burnham, Alabama bassist Jeff Turk, Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Skinny Webb, and powerhouse vocalist Jessica Gray. Formed in 2019, they have released two albums, Revelation and Little Bird. Audiences have lauded their performances as imaginative and passionate, often naming them among Kansas City’s best. Their songs feel both new and familiar, combining soulful depth with a rock edge, standout musicianship, and striking vocals.

Lawrence Opera Theatre conjures a spooky and spirited night at Theatre Lawrence, blending apparitions, sorcery, fevered minds, and delightful havoc into a showcase of opera arias, dramatic scenes, and musical theatre favorites inspired by the uncanny. The program also unveils the premiere of Brewed Ambition, a new one-act musical by Michael Turnblom and B.K. Wells. Set in a coffee shop on the ropes where drive collides with superstition and Shakespeare, this quick-witted comedy stirs high-octane antics with sharp satire for a lively musical jolt. Featured singers for Songs for a Haunted Stage include Joshua Jensen, Cadence Mayfield, Hugo Vera, Lisa Gerstenkorn, Madelynn Knisley, Marilyn Negron, Samuel Kennedy, John Henrikson, Feban Assefa, Linda Jorgenson, Mariah Berryman, and Zachary Nelson. Brewed Ambition features Colin Bradt as Deuce, Joshua Jensen as Boyd, Alexis Crist as Marjory, Katie Parsons as Cat, Mariah Berryman, Robin Deimerly, and Marilyn Negron as Old Biddy 1, 2, and 3, and Colin Schmaltz as Chad. The ensemble includes Timothy Dennison, Kendra Johnson, Linda Jorgenson, Cadence Mayfield, Matthew Rice, Emmalynn Reilly, and Vanessa Tessereau. The production is directed by Joseph DeSota, with music direction and piano by Malakai Fischer.