Set sail for Kansas’ largest party of the summer, Wichita Riverfest, May 30 through June 7. Experience nine days of music, food and events – all centered on the banks of the Arkansas River in downtown Wichita.

From the first celebration in 1970, the goal has always been to bring the community together, build community pride and focus on Wichita’s beautiful natural resource, the Arkansas River.

Besides being the state’s largest and longest-running community festival, Riverfest is one of the most affordable and family-friendly events in the Midwest. More than 100 activities are included in the cost of the admission button, including nine days of headlining performances.

Men paddle on the Arkansas River in a horse trough during the bathtub races at Riverfest.

Map out your activities 

With well over 100 activities and events included in the button, Riverfest offers nonstop fun every day. Daily activities include a Kids Corner and inflatables, a carnival, the Riverfest Food Court and getting on the Arkansas River in paddleboats at Boats & Bikes, among others.

The festival promises an exciting lineup of events and activities for attendees of all ages. While the festival continues to feature its beloved traditions, such as the River Run and Opening and Closing Night Fireworks, several new additions are set to enhance the experience this year, including the Children’s Entrepreneur Market on June 1 and the Linwood Sexton Charity Ice Cream Sandwich Challenge on June 4.

Wichita Riverfest Concert

2025 concert schedule 

In addition to these new events, Riverfest 2025 boasts a dynamic concert lineup featuring artists across various genres, including Flo Rida, Chris Janson, Jamey Johnson, Everclear, and La Arrolladora Banda El Limón. Attendees can also look forward to traditional favorites like the Sundown Parade, Fidelity Bank River Run and fireworks displays.

Six children eat a funnel cate at a table in the outdoor food court at Riverfest in Wichita.

Plan your meals

You can’t Riverfest without experiencing the state fair-type deliciousness served daily in the Quantum Credit Union Food Court. You can find classic fare as well as over-the-top options, and lots of sweet treats, too. Beverages range from water, soft drinks and fresh-squeezed lemonade to a broad selection of beers, wines and cocktails.

Runner compete in the annual Riverfest River Run

Sign up for the Fidelity Bank River Run

With a race for everyone, River Run is a great way to enjoy a morning of fun and fitness with friends and family. The festival will once again feature the SCHEELS Family Fun Run, an untimed 1-mile race. Other options include: 10K, 5K, 5K wheelchair and a tot trot for ages 2 to 7. Learn more here.

A man sits on a curb dressed in a T-shirt covered in Riverfest buttons from past festivals during the Riverfest in Wichita.

Get your button

Admission to every Riverfest concert and most activities is included in the price of your button. Current pricing is $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 6-12) and free for ages 5 years old and younger. Purchase buttons online or at the Wichita Festivals office at 444 E. William Street and at participating QuikTrip locations across the Greater Wichita Area as well as select Newton, El Dorado, Park City and Derby locations. Some activities that have a separate fee.

In addition to Riverfest, there is a full lineup of events happening in Wichita this summer, such as the 2025 Wicked Brew Tour, which begins May 30; Somewhere Fest and Conference happening June 13-14; and Wichita Taco Fest, taking place June 28.