If you think Salina, Kansas is a sleepy Midwest town, you’re in for a big surprise. This town knows how to party, mixing art, cars, history, and seasonal vibes into a calendar that keeps locals hopping and pulls visitors from Wichita to Kansas City (and beyond). Whether you’re craving live tunes, vintage hot rods, or pumpkin-spiced fun, Salina’s got you covered.
Here’s your rundown of the city’s annual festivals and events—grab your calendar and start planning!
First Fridays
Almost year-round, First Fridays lights up downtown Salina. Artists show off their skills, shops stay open late, and the community gathers for some relaxed fun. It’s a free, easygoing way to kick off your weekends—grab a snack, catch a performance, and soak in the community buzz.
Sculpture Tour Salina UNwrap Party (May)
Art season starts with the Sculpture Tour Salina UNwrap Party in May, unveiling 20+ new sculptures downtown. Live music and festivities mark the big reveal, and you can vote for the People’s Choice Award (the winner stays permanently). It’s free, with sculptures up for grabs—over 40 have sold since it began. Wander, enjoy, and pick your fave!
Smoky Hill River Festival (Mid-June)
Salina’s summer kicks off with the Smoky Hill River Festival, a four-day arts blowout in Oakdale Park (e.g., June 12–15, 2025).
Over 60,000 folks flood in for live music (2025’s lineup includes 80 Proof Alice, Cash Hollistah & Friends, and Cordovas), 130+ artists selling one-of-a-kind works (over $444K in sales last year!), and roaming acts like Drum Safari. Kids hit Artyopolis for crafts, while food stalls offer everything you can imagine — Asian, Mexican, German and barbecue, roasted corn, funnel cakes, smoothies, ice cream, and handcrafted sodas. It’s $15–$20 for a 4-day wristband (free for kids under 11).
It’s a can’t-miss taste of Salina’s creative heartbeat.
KKOA Leadsled Spectacular (Late July)
Gearheads unite for the KKOA Leadsled Spectacular, a four-day car extravaganza in late July.
Oakdale Park fills with custom classics—hot rods, choppers, you name it—complete with races, auctions, dances, and concerts. Since 1980, it’s been a pilgrimage for car lovers, with tickets around $10–$15/day. If vintage chrome revs your engine, this is your spot.
This amazing car show will celebrate it’s 45th Anniversary in Salina July 24 – 27 this year (2025).
Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair (Mid-September)
Step back in time at the Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair, a mid-September day of history outside the Smoky Hill Museum. Expect a parade down Santa Fe, chili cook-offs, reenactments, and free crafts for kids. It’s a laid-back celebration of the Smoky Hills’ roots, with live tunes and vendors keeping it lively—no cost, just good vibes.
Boom! Fest (Early October)
Art takes over downtown with Boom! Salina (aka Boom! Salina Street Art & Mural Festival), usually early October.
World-class muralists paint live, adding five fresh murals to the cityscape—think David Zinn-level talent. It’s free to watch, funded by donations, and part of the Salina Kanvas Project. Stroll with a coffee and watch Salina turn into an open-air gallery.
Pumpkin PaZOOla (Mid-October, Rolling Hills Zoo)
Fall gets wild at Pumpkin PaZOOla, held mid-October at Rolling Hills Zoo, just west of Salina. This pumpkin-themed fest offers half-price admission for kids 12 and under (with an adult), who snag a free pumpkin while supplies last. Expect live music, inflatables, keeper talks, and animals playing with pumpkins—plus food from vendors like Papa Murphy’s. It’s 9 a.m.–4 p.m., blending zoo fun with autumn flair.
Holiday Parade of Lights (Late November/Early December)
Winter glows with the Holiday Parade of Lights, hitting downtown in late November or early December. Light-wrapped floats, bands, dancers, and Santa roll through, free for all to enjoy. Past years paired it with tree lightings or shopping kickoffs—bundle up, sip cocoa, and let the holiday magic begin.
Why Salina’s Festivals Are a Blast
Salina’s festival scene is a year-long love letter to art, community, and good times. From the River Festival’s massive crowds to Pumpkin PaZOOla’s autumn twist, there’s something for everyone—and most are free or wallet-friendly. Salina’s ready to party—come see for yourself!
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