Following the inaugural Elsewhere Fest & Conference in 2024, this summer’s much anticipated Somewhere Fest and Conference 2025 is taking center stage on June 13-14 in downtown Wichita.

Hosted by Movement Musick and Midtopia, the event is set to once create a hub of music, art and community engagement. Evolving from its inaugural edition, this not-for-profit event continues to champion radical inclusivity, creativity and bringing people together.

The name change signifies that Wichita isn’t “elsewhere” anymore when it comes to music and culture. It’s now “somewhere,” a place to step away from the noise of the world and gain connection and clarity within a community of deep thinkers and creative explorers.

A woman with long blonde hair plays a guitar during a concert at the 2024 Elsewhere Fest at WAVE.Photo credit: Tim Larsen

Attendees can explore interactive art installations curated by Harvester Arts, participate in interactive workshops and engage with community organizations focusing on mental health, education and social advocacy.

The festival also features a diverse array of food and beverage vendors. Unique activities like the Blind Taste Challenge and Foodie Photo Op Challenge offer fun ways to enjoy the culinary offerings.

A crowd cheers during an Elsewhere fest concert at WAVEPhoto credit: Tim Larsen

Genre-agnostic lineup

Performances will be staged both indoors and outdoors at WAVE and at the nearby WhereElse Stage at Second and Emporia, with music lovers encouraged to connect with each other as they follow their favorite acts from stage to stage.

This year's festival boasts an eclectic mix of over 40 artists spanning genres from hip-hop and EDM to indie rock and soul. Among the names on the bill are headliners like Deadmau5, an electronic music star known for his over-sized mouse helmet, and Suki Waterhouse, a British singer/songwriter and actress. Other headliners include Suki Waterhouse, Flying Lotus, BigXthaPlug, Kim Gordon and Aloe Blacc.

Additional performers feature Cassian, Tinlicker, Jerro, La Luz, Elise Trouw, Die Spitz, Tommy Newport, Chris Luno, 2LØT, XV and more, showcasing a rich tapestry of musical talent.

Three young people walk through the streets during Elsewhere Fest in Wichita in 2024.Photo credit: Tim Larsen

Community Building

Beyond the music, the conference component offers panels, workshops and discussions aimed at bridging the community, empowering artists and connecting industry professionals. There will be a conversation with American singer and rapper Aloe Blacc, who is well known for his feature on “Wake Me Up” by Avicii. Others contributing to the conference include Chase Koch, Founder, Movement Musick & Stand Together Music; Talia Keys, Artist; Jessie Hartke, CEO, Midtopia; Portia Sabin, President, Music Business Association; and Jessica Tomasin, Founder, Connect Beyond Festival.

Topics will cover navigating the modern music industry, community organization and leveraging music for social change. There will be opportunities for attendees to connect to a variety of Wichita non-profits and resources for addiction and mental health, education gaps, poverty and more.

Somewhere Festival will partner with entities such as The Phoenix and 1 Million Strong to foster conversations and safe spaces around topics such as addiction recovery. Other key issues include education, economic advancement and freedom of expression. By weaving these social issues into its fabric, the event not only entertains but also educates and empowers its attendees, fostering a community committed to positive change.

Tickets

Tickets are available in various tiers:

  • GA One-Day Pass – $79
  • GA Two-Day Pass – $129
  • VIP One-Day Pass – $169
  • VIP Two-Day Pass – $259
  • Conference Two-Day Pass – $35

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official Somewhere Fest website. Additionally, explore Wichita’s arts and entertainment scene and start planning your visit to the Heart of the Country.