This is the opening weekend for the 54th edition of Riverfest, one of the largest annual events on the Wichita calendar.
Day 1 on Friday features the on-going Medallion Hunt, and the Admiral's breakfast. The Food Court is open, and there's a grand opening ceremony.
The Sundown Parade is at 6:30 p.m. along Main and Market streets; multiple Audacy Radio personalities will be driving radio station vehicles in the parade, delighting parade onlookers.
Friday evening also features hot air balloons, carnival rides, a concert by The Jacksons, and fireworks at 10:45 p.m.; bring your radio and tune to 103.7 KEYN to hear the fireworks music.
Some cities do festivals. Wichita launches a nine-day outdoor fever dream with fireworks, hot air balloons, live music and people racing bathtubs down the river. 🚣♂️🎶
— Visit Wichita (@VisitWichita) May 29, 2026
Wichita @Riverfest is back today-June 6, and honestly, your calendar belongs to downtown now.
👉 See what’s… pic.twitter.com/lO7p5uzoUF
Day 2 on Saturday has hot air balloons at 7:00 a.m.; other morning activities include the 50th annual River Run, and the Admiral's Pancake Feed.
Saturday afternoon features helicopter rides, 3-on-3 basketball, and Cowboy Bathtub Races. The evening caps off with a Rave at the Wave at 9:00 p.m.
Day 3 on Sunday gets things going wiht a family bike tour, and Cowtown Adventures, a free event, along with a board-game gathering downtown.
Sunday afternoon Riverfest activities include a Cardboard Regatta, ICT Mobile Golf, an Egg Toss, and a Funnel Cake Eating Contest.
Sunday evening will conclude opening weekend with a Dinosaur Meet & Greet, and Family Movie Night, featuring the motion picture "Jurassic Park".
