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Must-Do Activities in Salina
Salina July Bucket List

It’s time to rediscover the vibrant heart of Salina, Kansas, where exciting adventur

It’s time to rediscover the vibrant heart of Salina, Kansas, where exciting adventures and unique experiences await! WhatsUpSalina.com is your go-to guide for uncovering the best of Salina, from hidden gems to must-see attractions. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or culture lover, our July bucket list is brimming with unforgettable activities. Grab your calendar and start planning a fun-filled summer in Salina, Kansas, with events and experiences that will inspire you to live your best life right here at home.

Another Month of Summer Fun

Summer is in full swing in Salina, KS, and WhatsUpSalina’s July Bucket List will help you experience it to the fullest! Take the challenge and see how many you can off your list.

  1. Watch a Fireworks display on the 4th of July
    If you’ve ever been in Salina, KS, on the 4th of July, you know — this town KNOWS how to celebrate Independence Day in America. Grab your lawn chairs and find a spot to “ooh” and “ahh” over the dazzling displays.

  2. Check out the hot rods at the KKOA Leadsled Spectacular

    The KKOA Leadsled Spectacular, held July 24-27, 2025, in Salina’s Oakdale Park, is a world-renowned custom car show celebrating its 45th anniversary. Featuring thousands of classic cars, trucks, and hot rods, the event includes a Thursday night Sundown Cruise, Friday Night Drags, a Saturday Elvis tribute concert, and Sunday awards. Enjoy vendors, live entertainment, and celebrity appearances at this iconic Salina tradition. Click here to see the full schedule.

  3. Salina Public Library’s Youth Pool Party

    Dive into summer fun at the Salina Public Library’s Youth Summer Pool Party on July 27, 2025, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Kenwood Cove! Enjoy frozen treats, water games, and a celebration of summer reading for youth and one adult per ticket. Secure your free tickets at the Youth Services desk and make a splash! Click here for details.

  4. Summer Heat Dance at The Back Alley

    Come dance the night away while enjoying new AND old school Hip Hop and RnB music on the biggest dance floor in Salina. This is a fun night out, and a fairly new addition to Salina’s nightlife scene. If you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s time! Click here to learn more. 

  5. Shop at the Community Market Expo

    Get ready for a vibrant shopping experience at the Community Market Expo, happening July 25–26 at Tony’s Pizza Events Center in Salina, KS! Discover a treasure trove of thrifted gems, vintage finds, handmade crafts, and more, all under one roof. With admission just $1 for ages 13 and up (kids 12 and under free), it’s the perfect weekend outing for bargain hunters and craft lovers alike. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts or one-of-a-kind pieces, this expo has something for everyone. Don’t miss out—join us at Tony’s Pizza Events Center for a weekend of shopping, community, and fun. Click here for details!

  6. Attend Ballet in the Park 

    Step into a world of enchantment at Ballet in the Park, presented by the Tamara Howe School of Dance on July 24 at Oakdale Park in Salina, KS! Experience the magical “Fairy Doll” ballet, where a whimsical toy shop comes alive with dancing dolls, a curious shop owner, and a touch of midnight magic. This free, family-friendly performance is perfect for all ages, bringing the grace and artistry of ballet to the heart of the community. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of captivating dance under the stars! Don’t miss this delightful outdoor ballet experience! Click here for more details.  

  7. Keep Up Your Summer Reading and Help Our Community Read 20,000 Books This Summer
    Join the Salina Public Library’s Summer Reading Program and help hit their epic goal of 20,000 books read by July 31—grab a book, log it, and be part of a community reading revolution! Click here to read our article and learn all about the Summer Reading Program at Salina Public Library.

  8. Attend a Movie Matinee
    Temperatures can surge here in Salina, KS during July. Here’s an idea for beating the heat! Attend a movie matinee at AMC at Central Mall or at the Salina Art Center Cinema.

  9. Plan a Mid-Summer Date Night
    Re-kindle the spark in your relationship with a mid-summer date night. Click here for our round-up of inexpensive date night ideas to enjoy in Salina, KS. 

  10. Have Some Spelling Fun at SLP’s Adult Spelling Bee

    Get ready to spell your way to glory at the Adult Spelling Bee Showdown, hosted by Salina Public Library on July 19 at 6:30 p.m.! This high-energy, bracket-style tournament pits teams of four against tricky words for a chance to win a $300 Smoky Hill Silver grand prize. For just $25 per person, competitors get a custom t-shirt, food, drinks, and bragging rights, while spectators enjoy the fun for free. All proceeds support the library’s Re-Imagining Our Library campaign. It’s a night of laughs, rivalry, and wordplay you won’t forget! Buzz on over and join the spelling frenzy! Click here to learn more.

Keep your Summer Kansas fun going with our Salina July Bucket List! And as always, feel free to visit our Events Calendar for more details on these events and to discover even more ways to live, play, and thrive in Salina! 

Happy Summer, Salina! 😎