Downtown Wichita is getting ready for its close-up! With Wichita hosting 150 travel writers and industry leaders at the international TBEX Summit America 2025 from Oct. 1 to Oct. 4, downtown is stepping into the spotlight in a way that’s designed to wow locals and visitors alike.

This fall, new activities are popping up across the core, including colorful chalk murals, live music and a fresh look for Gallery Alley. Whether you’re downtown every week or haven’t explored in a while, now’s the perfect time to dive in and discover something new!

“This is about showing off what makes Wichita special,” said Heather Schroeder, Executive Director of Downtown Wichita. “By activating our public spaces with art, music and community, we’re inviting people to discover something new downtown and feel the energy that’s building here.”

First Friday Fest: More Than Your Usual First Friday

You already know and love First Friday, the monthly art crawl that highlights Wichita’s creative side. However, First Friday Fest on Oct. 3 will take things up a notch. Think of it as First Friday with extra sparkle: live music, new art, and a dash of competition.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Gallery Alley Unveiling | Oct. 3, 5–5:45 p.m. | 616 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67202
  See the newly refreshed alley, complete with fresh paint and a vibrant fish installation by local artist Mike Miller.
   
• Douglas Avenue Chalk Art Contest | Oct. 3, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. | Ruffin Building, 101 N. Broadway St., Wichita, KS 67202
  
  Watch the sidewalks transform into works of art as local artists bring the theme of “Heartland Stories” to life in chalk. Artists will work on their 12x12 concrete canvases from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Judging will take place at 6 p.m.
   
• Sunset Sounds Pop-Up Performances | Oct. 3 | 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. | Along and near Douglas Avenue
  Discover music around downtown corners as local musicians create a new vibe downtown.

Why It Matters

Every mural, performance, and pop-up is part of Downtown Wichita’s mission to create a vibrant downtown every day. With major conferences like TBEX bringing people from around the world to Wichita, the city is showing off what makes our city special.

So please mark your calendars, grab a friend, and come see downtown like you’ve never seen it before.

For more details on events, volunteer opportunities, or how to get involved, visit downtownwichita.org.