WICHITA, Kansas. — The holiday season is officially creeping into the Air Capital this week. From the 27th annual lighting of the Davis Clock Tower to the 50th anniversary of the Turkey Trot, this week’s calendar is packed with local traditions.
Here is your full guide to what’s happening in Wichita from November 18–24, 2025, including ticket prices and parking information.
Top Headliners
Friends University Ceremony of Lights A beloved local tradition returns to the Rose Window Plaza. Families can watch the historic Davis Clock Tower light up with fireworks, enjoy live music from the Singing Quakers, and see Santa.
- When: Sunday, Nov 23 at 6:00 PM
- Where: Friends University Campus (Rose Window Plaza)
- Tickets: Free.
- Parking: Free in designated campus lots near the plaza.
Wichita State Shocker Basketball It’s a busy week at Charles Koch Arena with three games on the schedule.
- The Schedule:
- Women: Tuesday, Nov 18 (6:00 PM) vs. SE Missouri State & Saturday, Nov 22 (2:00 PM) vs. Cal State Bakersfield.
- Men: Saturday, Nov 22 (6:00 PM) vs. Milwaukee.
- Tickets: Women’s tickets start at $10; Men’s upper-level seats start around $10–$14.
- Parking: Men’s game parking passes are often $10 in designated lots. General parking is available for women’s games (often easier to find), but carrying cash/card is recommended.
Holiday Markets & Festivals
42nd Annual Wreath Festival Kick off your holiday shopping with fresh wreaths, baked goods, and gifts at the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum.
- When: Thursday, Nov 20 – Saturday, Nov 22
- Tickets: Free admission to the festival and museum.
- Parking: Metered street parking or public garages downtown (204 S Main St).
11th Annual Fez-tival of Trees The Midian Shrine Center transforms into a forest of fully decorated Christmas trees that are raffled off to lucky winners.
- When: Starts Friday, Nov 21
- Tickets: $5 per person. Raffle tickets are $1 each.
- Parking: Free in the Shrine Center lot (130 N Topeka).
50th Annual Wichita Turkey Trot A Thanksgiving tradition for runners, featuring 2-mile and 10-mile races.
- When: Saturday, Nov 22 (Morning)
- Where: Starts near Century II / Downtown
- Registration: $45 for the 2-Mile; $60 for the 10-Mile (prices subject to change).
- Parking: Paid/Metered. Heavy traffic is expected downtown; utilize Century II lots or nearby garages.
Live Music & Comedy
- When: Wednesday, Nov 19 at 7:00 PM @ WAVE
- Tickets: General admission $25–$32.
- Parking: Paid lot at WAVE or the lot across the street. Free parking is available a short walk away in the Old Town Square garage.
- When: Friday, Nov 21 at 8:00 PM @ The Cotillion
- Tickets: Approx. $48.
- Parking: Free in The Cotillion’s private lot.
Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras Fall Concerts A showcase of the city’s most talented young musicians.
- When: Saturday, Nov 22 & Sunday, Nov 23 @ Century II Concert Hall
- Tickets: Check box office; one ticket typically covers both days.
- Parking: Paid/Metered at the Hyatt garage, Century II lot, or street meters.
- When: Sunday, Nov 23 at 7:30 PM @ The Cotillion
- Status Update: Please verify directly with the venue. Some outlets list this event as Canceled, though resale sites may still show listings.
- Tickets/Parking: If proceeding, parking is Free.
Arts, Theater & Film
“Best in Show” (25th Anniversary Screening) Part of the Orpheum’s anniversary film series, screening at the Mary Jane Teall Theater.
- When: Thursday, Nov 20 at 7:00 PM
- Tickets: $12.26 (General Admission).
- Parking: Paid/Metered at Century II lots or nearby garages.
Melodrama at Cowtown: “Heapin’ Holiday Helpin'” A classic boo-and-hiss melodrama with a holiday twist.
- When: Friday, Nov 21 – Sunday, Nov 23 @ Old Cowtown Museum
- Tickets: $15 Adults, $7 Children (5-12), Free for 4 & under.
- Parking: Free in the West Lot (approx. 1/4 mile from the main entrance).
Community Bulletins
- Wichita Public Schools Choices Fair: Tuesday, Nov 18 at 5:00 PM @ Century II. Free admission; Paid parking.
- St. Mary Fall Craft Fair: Saturday, Nov 22 (9 AM – 3 PM) @ St. Mary Catholic School (Derby). Free/Donation admission; Free parking.
