Imagine strolling through Oakdale Park, the air buzzing with guitar riffs, the scent of sizzling street food, and colorful art displays lining the Smoky Hill River. Salina’s Smoky Hill River Festival, a beloved tradition since 1976, returns June 12-15, 2025, for its 49th year, transforming this historic park into a cultural playground. Drawing over 60,000 visitors, this four-day event celebrates art, music, and community with a lineup that promises something for everyone. From electrifying live performances to stunning art installations and the iconic Saturday morning RiverRun, here’s what locals and visitors can expect at this must-attend Kansas festival.
A Feast for the Senses
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Oakdale Park, the Smoky Hill River Festival is a sensory delight. Over 35 food vendors serve up everything from classic funnel cakes to Brazilian churros and German schnitzel, ensuring no one goes hungry. Families flock to Artyopolis, a kid-friendly zone with games like cornhole and ring toss, plus First Treasures, where children can buy affordable art. The festival’s inclusivity shines with free CityGo shuttles, handicapped parking, and mobility scooter rentals. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, the warm community vibe and creative energy make every moment memorable. Expect to mingle with artists, dance to live music, and soak in Salina’s welcoming spirit.
Festival Schedule: Plan Your Visit
Running from June 12 to June 15, 2025, the festival offers a packed yet flexible schedule:
- Thursday, June 12: 4 PM–10 PM. Kick off with the Festival Jam.
- Friday–Saturday, June 13-14: 10 AM–10 PM. Full programming with music, art, and family activities.
- Sunday, June 15: 10 AM–4 PM. A relaxed finale with a scavenger hunt for art “seeds.”
Admission is affordable: a weekend wristband costs $20 at the gate, daily wristbands are $10 at the gate, and kids 11 and under enter free. Where else can you get a weekend full of entertainment for $20??
Click here to see the full program, complete with schedules and maps.
Live Music: A Soundtrack for Everyone 🎵
Music is the heartbeat of the Smoky Hill River Festival, with over 40 acts across three stages. The Eric Stein Stage and Stage II host a diverse lineup, from rock and jazz to folk, Latin, and hip-hop. Highlights for 2025 include The Animeros, Austin’s “Best Latin Act,” delivering infectious rhythms, and My Son The Hurricane, a brass-heavy dance crew from Canada. Local talent shines with Cash Hollistah’s “SHRF Mixtape,” blending Salina artists in a high-energy set. Thursday’s Festival Jam is a fan favorite, featuring 16 bands in rapid-fire 15-minute performances. Roving acts like Clan Tynker add a whimsical touch with their vaudeville circus flair. Whether you’re dancing in the crowd or savoring an intimate set, the music creates unforgettable moments.
Art Displays: Creativity in Bloom 🎨
Art lovers will find paradise at the festival’s Fine Art and Craft Show, showcasing 125+ artists from 21 states, including 52 newcomers in 2025. Browse original works, from paintings to ceramics, and meet the creators behind them. The Art Installations steal the show, with 20+ site-specific pieces, like Margaret Craig’s “Setting Seed,” a vibrant display paired with a Sunday scavenger hunt for handmade “seeds.” Art patrons enjoy exclusive perks, including Thursday’s Premiere party and early Friday shopping. With over $460,000 in art sales in 2023, the festival attracts top talent, making it a haven for collectors and casual browsers alike. Wander the park to discover pieces that speak to you, from bold sculptures to delicate jewelry.
Smoky Hill RiverRun: Run, Walk, Celebrate 🏃♂️➡️
The Smoky Hill RiverRun, held Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Kenwood Park, is a community cornerstone. Hosted by Salina Regional Health Center, it benefits the Tammy Walker Cancer Center. Choose from 5-mile, 2-mile, or 1-mile races, a 2-mile walk, or kids’ races for the little ones. The festive atmosphere includes booths, bouncy houses, and face painting, making it a fun outing for all ages. Runners and walkers of every level join in, cheered by the crowd and fueled by the festival’s energy. Click here to learn more on their Facebook page and lace up for a morning of fitness and community spirit.
Practical Tips for Attendees 💫
To make the most of your festival experience, here’s what you need to know:
- Wristbands: Available starting May 1 at 40+ Salina retailers or at the gates.
- Parking: Free at Tony’s Pizza Events Center with CityGo shuttles; limited handicapped parking near the 4th Street Bridge.
- Rules: No pets (except service animals) or glass containers; coolers are welcome.
- Services: First aid, lost & found, an Ident-A-Kid booth, and a baby station in Artyopolis ensure safety and comfort.
With these logistics covered, you’re free to dive into the festival’s vibrant offerings with no worries.
Click here to see the full program, complete with schedules and maps.
Join the Celebration 🎉
The Smoky Hill River Festival is more than an event—it’s a celebration of Salina’s heart and soul. From the rhythm of live music to the beauty of handcrafted art and the camaraderie of the RiverRun, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendar for June 12-15, 2025, grab your wristbands, and click here for more info. Come ready to explore, connect, and leave with new art, memories, and a deeper love for Salina’s creative spirit. See you at Oakdale Park for this epic arts party!
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