Wichita Riverfest is the largest and longest-running summer celebration in the state, celebrating its 52nd year in 2024. This year, the fun happens May 31-June 8 in downtown Wichita along the banks of the Arkansas River. The community event features fireworks, diverse stage shows, athletic contests and activities for all ages.
One of the most anticipated parts of the festival includes the popular and varied musical acts who come to town. After you experience the excitement of the daily events and things to do, stick around for these headliners.
Friday, May 31
Digital Underground
7:30-10:30 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Bringing the heat on opening night, join Digital Underground, a hip-hop group known for their iconic song “The Humpty Dance.” Featuring other artists such as Tag Team and C&C Music Factory.
Saturday, June 1
Hunter Hayes
7-10 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Coming to the stage for a Saturday night show is Hunter Hayes, an American country singer, along with Kyle Kilgore and Tawna Goforth.
Sunday, June 2
Monterey Jack
7-10 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Sunday night will feature local talent including party band Monterey Jack and Harrison Steele, an “American Idol” singer-songwriter.
Monday, June 3
Gospel Fest
5:30-10:00 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Family favorite Gospel Fest returns in 2024 to kick off the week.
Tuesday, June 4
Drake White
Time TBA | Kennedy Plaza Stage
An artist who recently made the Rolling Stone’s “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know,” welcome Drake White. Tequila Ridge, a local rock band, will open.
Wednesday, June 5
Starship featuring Mickey Thomas
6:30-10:00 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Listen to top hits like “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” and “We Built this City” from Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. Don’t miss out on the opening act, Foghat.
Thursday, June 6
Danielle Nicole
6:30-10:00 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
Listen to opener Pretend Friend Duo followed by Grammy-nominated blues artist Danielle Nicole.
Friday, June 7
Banda Cuisillos
4-11 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
An extensive lineup of talent and festive atmosphere of Fiesta del Río, including Banda Cuisillos, will take over Friday night to keep the weeklong celebration going strong.
Saturday, June 8
Kool & The Gang
5:45-10:30 p.m. | Kennedy Plaza Stage
End the nine-day festival with opener Rudy Love and DJ Carbon. Jam out to Kool & the Gang, an 18-piece band with iconic hits such as “Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie” and so many more. They’ll have all of Wichita grooving, and after the concert, the Capitol Federal Fireworks Finale will end the festival with a bang.
Buttons are on sale now: $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 6-11). Kids 5 years old and younger get in free. They are available online and at the Wichita Festivals office. Buttons are also available beginning May 3 at area QuikTrip stores. Admission to every Riverfest concert is included in the price of an adult or child admission button and VIP tickets are available for an additional cost to some concerts.
See a full list of events happening in Wichita and download our Spring 2024 visitor guide to make the most out of your visit to the Heart of the Country.