D-Day Commemoration Events - Film, Panel Discussion, and Symphony Concert | | |
A series of events will be held at the Eisenhower Presidential Library campus as part of the annual D-Day Commemoration weekend.
A screening and panel discussion of the new Kansas City PBS documentary titled “Winning the War” will be on Friday, June 6 at 2 p.m. The program will be in the Visitors Center Auditorium and will include Mary Jean Eisenhower, Producer Emily Woodring (PBS), Eisenhower Library Director Todd Arrington and Truman Library Supervisory Archivist Sam Rushay.
The D-Day commemoration events continue with the Symphony at Sunset Annual D-Day Commemoration Concert on Saturday, June 7. Symphony at Sunset features an outdoor concert showcasing patriotic and popular music from the World War II era, performed by the Salina Symphony and the Fort Riley 1st Infantry Division Band. The schedule begins at 4:00 p.m. with various activities and food vendors, followed by The Blades concert at 5:30 p.m. The event also includes the Custodians of Omaha Beach Flag Ceremony at 6:15 p.m. and the Ft. Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard demonstrations at 6:30 and 8 p.m. The 1st Infantry Division Band will take the stage at 7:00 p.m. and the evening will conclude with a performance by the Salina Symphony featuring guest artist Samantha Rose Williams at 8:30 p.m.
For your comfort, please bring a lawn chair, sunscreen, and bug spray as needed. Note that the rain date for this event is Sunday, June 8. Symphony at Sunset is made possible by our generous sponsors, including the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, Marshall Motors, Friends of the Eisenhower Foundation, and Kansas Gas Service.
Details for all events can be found on the Eisenhower Presidential Library website.
| | Iron Horse Trail Dedication Honors Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad Founder Joe Minick | | |
As trains chug along the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s mainline, it’s now common to also see bicyclists, joggers, and walkers traveling between Abilene and Enterprise on the newly opened Iron Horse Trail. The trackside pathway was formally dedicated Saturday with a ceremony in Enterprise naming the east end of the trail in honor of its creator, Joe Minick.
Minick and his family were joined by friends and officials from the A&SV, the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, and the Abilene Conventions and Visitors Bureau, in christening a project that was more than six years in the making.
“It’s done,” Minick proudly proclaimed when asked for his reaction to the proceedings, where event organizers surprised him with a sign proclaiming the trail’s beginning on Bridge Street as the “Joe Minick Entrance.”
“They kept that secret,” said Minick. “They wouldn’t even let me be here when they put the sign up.”
Interestingly enough, the Iron Horse Trail, the only “trail with rail” parkway in Kansas and adjoining states, emerges today as a rare situation where the challenging years dominated by Covid 19 actually proved beneficial.
“During Covid, we saw so many museums that were closed and we saw a big need for outdoor recreation,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Conventions and Visitors Bureau.
Dickinson County Foundation Director Elizabeth Weese said her organization took on the leadership of the Iron Horse Trail development as a community impact investment project when it became obvious that the pandemic was motivating people to engage in outdoor activities.
“When we took on the leadership of the trail project, we took in the Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau and obviously the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad as partners, then the other organizations that came forward with the funding mechanism.”
Those organizations included the Sunflower Foundation, the State of Kansas, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield, which partnered with the Foundation in funding the trail’s $200,000 price tag.
But the project could never have reached fruition without the dedication of Minick, who took the lead role in constructing the trail.
“I don’t know what to say about Joe, except that we need a bronze statue of him somewhere to commemorate all that he has done for Abilene and Dickinson County,” said Weese.
“When we started this project, we were told by other people who had built trails that it was going to cost a million dollars a mile to build a trail from Enterprise to Abilene. But Joe said he could do if for $200,000, and we said, ‘Go Joe!’”
Minick, who has aversion to heights, said his biggest challenge in completing the project was constructing a footbridge across the Smoky Hill River to run alongside the existing railroad bridge built by the Rock Island Railroad in the late 1800s. So he turned to his grandson, Curtis Minick, of Abilene, and Curtis’ brother in law, Kenny Sterling, also of Abilene, to help construct the walkway.
“I would say that at best, this was the sketchiest thing I’ve ever done,” laughed the younger Minick, “but it was good to do something with Grandpa…I’ll always be able to walk the trail and have the memory of doing that work, and I’ll have stories to share with my kids.”
Curtis said he never had moments when he felt trepidation about working roughly 50 feet above the river, describing himself as “pretty sure footed” in the awesome task of securing longer steel beams under the girders of the bridge. Those beams extend beyond the north side of the structure to serve as a foundation for the footbridge. Decking boards were then added to complete the surface of the walkway.
Now that the trail is completed, cyclists, runners and walkers have the chance to complete the full 5.5 mile distance between Abilene and Enterprise. The public had already begun using previously completed sections of the trail since the first phase––stretching from Campbell Street in Abilene to Jeep Road––opened in 2022. The second phase, which. allows passage to the Smoky Hill River, was completed in early 2024. The west half of the trail is named in honor of Mary Jane Oard, the longtime manager of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad.
The Iron Horse’s completion has led to speculation about future development in relation to the trail.
“This gives us a new tourism attraction that we didn’t have,” said Weeks. “We now have an outdoor recreation component that complements the other attractions in this area.”
According to Weeks, discussions have centered around creating accommodations for trail users at both ends that would include refreshments and other amenities.
“This is just the beginning. I think there are so many opportunities for new businesses to pop up around this trail project.”
Ross Boelling, President and General Manager of the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad said the A&SV will work to promote the trail’s usage.
“We see the day when we might offer one way tickets so that trail users can ride back to their original point of entry. We also see staging special events from time to time that involve Iron Horse Trail tourists.”
Weese said the trail project has already created a positive atmosphere in Dickinson County, and the future of the parkway is bright.
“To come to Abilene, Kansas, and walk this trail over an historic railroad bridge that now has a pathway for trail users is an amazing opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.”
Photos courtesy Phil Howland.
| | From Rails to Ales: The Abilene Brewery Loop | | Set your sights (and your taste buds) on a flavorful adventure through North Central Kansas! This two-day road trip highlights the region’s best craft breweries and tap houses—all while making Abilene your home base. Enjoy scenic day trips and return each night to one of America’s Best Small Towns, full of award-winning charm, cozy accommodations, and plenty of things to see and do! | |
|
|
|
Art in Abilene
"Ike's Galaxy" - 419 N Broadway
This boot honor's Ike's legacy and the creation of NASA.
Location: 419 N Broadway
| | | | 2025 is off to a great start! Check back weekly for updates as we receive more information from our partners about exciting events happening this year. | | | |
All Shook Up at Great Plains Theatre
The music of Elvis comes alive in All Shook Up. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, All Shook Up follows a small Midwestern town that is thrown into a frenzy with the arrival of Chad, a good-looking, motorcycle-riding roustabout, who rides from town to town with a guitar on his back, blue suede shoes on his feet, and a song in his heart. Lovers meet, woo, pursue, and more, all in one zany night that will change the town forever. All Shook Up is a rocking, heartwarming tale about following dreams, opening up to love, and the power of music. This production is rated PG-13.
^^Fun fact, this show has many references to Dwight D. Eisenhower and Mamie Eisenhower
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Symphony at Sunset Annual D-Day Commemoration Concert
Commemorate D-Day at this meaningful outdoor concert held on our beautiful campus grounds. This annual concert is held the first Saturday in June in partnership with the Salina Symphony and Eisenhower Foundation. Plus, free museum admission all day!
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Big Fish at Great Plains Theatre
Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest…and then some! Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him—most of all, his devoted wife Sandra. But their son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father’s epic tales. Overflowing with heart and humor, Big Fish is an extraordinary musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre—for an experience that’s richer, funnier and bigger than life itself. This production is rated PG.
Learn more
| | | | |
Band Wagon Battle at Old Abilene Town
Local bands battling it out at the Pavilion.
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Old-Fashioned 4th of July
An Old-Fashioned 4th of July in Abilene, Kansas, is a celebration filled with community spirit, patriotic pride, and timeless traditions. As the Heart of America, Abilene marks Independence Day with nostalgic events, a lively community band concert, and a spectacular fireworks display.
| | | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | |
19 & 20
Saturday - Sunday
| |
Petals at Their Peak
Join us for the third annual Petals at Their Peak Garden Showcase, a celebration of the breathtaking beauty of the Eisenhower Park Rose Garden at its finest. While the garden’s delicate roses may fade in the summer heat, vibrant annuals and perennials burst with color, creating a stunning display. This event offers the perfect opportunity to admire and photograph the garden in full bloom, with the early morning hours providing the best light for capturing its splendor. Don’t miss this chance to experience nature’s artistry at its peak!
Learn more
| | | | |
Tuck Everlasting - The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
What would you do if you had all eternity? Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence, but not until she becomes unexpectedly entwined with the Tuck Family does she get more than she could have imagined. When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life. As her adventure unfolds, Winnie faces an extraordinary choice: return to her life, or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey. This production is rated PG.
Learn more
| | | | |
Abilene Municipal Band Concert
Experience a timeless Abilene tradition! The 144-year-old Abilene Municipal Band performs live every Thursday at 8 PM during the summer in Eisenhower Park at the Royer Band Shell. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a delightful evening of family fun, or enjoy the music from your car and honk along to your favorite tunes. Celebrate over a century of musical heritage with this beloved community event!
Learn more
| | | | |
Day of the Cowboy at Old Abilene Town
| | | | |
Central Kansas Free Fair - Parade
Experience the excitement of the Central Kansas Free Fair, starting with the annual parade on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 4 p.m. The parade begins at 7th Street and Buckeye Avenue (Highway 15), travels south to 3rd Street, and heads west to Washington Street. Don’t miss this annual tradition!
| | | | |
Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo
Get ready for action-packed nights at the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo, July 29 - August 1! Watch as talented cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills in exciting rodeo events.
| | | | |
After the Rodeo Dance at Old Abilene Town
Featuring the Lazy Wayne Band.
| | | | |
Central Kansas Free Fair - Demolition Derby
Visit Abilene, Kansas, for one of the region's best demolition derbies! Watch as drivers compete in a high-energy clash of skill and durability, battling to be the last car standing.
| | | |
18 - 20
Thursday - Saturday
| |
Disney * Pixar's Finding Nemo Jr. at Great Plains Theatre
Learn more
| | | |
19 & 20
Friday & Saturday
| |
Abilene Oktoberfest
The 8th Annual Abilene Oktoberfest is back and promises to be a memorable celebration of German culture for the whole family! This exciting event will feature a delightful array of authentic German food, ensuring that your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey. As you savor these culinary delights, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere created by traditional German Dancers from KC that will have you tapping your feet and joining in the fun. Of course, no Oktoberfest would be complete without a selection of German beers, offering a variety of brews to satisfy every palate. The festival is designed to be kid-friendly, with bounce houses, barrel train, & face painting to keep the little ones engaged and entertained. Gather your family and friends and join us for an unforgettable celebration at the Abilene Oktoberfest, where the spirit of Germany comes to life in a vibrant and welcoming setting! Learn more
| | | | |
Wild West Gravel Fest
For adventure enthusiasts on two wheels, the Wild West Gravel Fest is a must! This dynamic event offers three race options: a 50k fun ride perfect for all ages, a 100k competitive race for those seeking a challenge, and a 200k endurance race designed for dedicated cyclists. Beyond the race itself, gravel racing is all about camaraderie—connecting with fellow riders and sharing the joy of exploring the scenic Kansas countryside. Whether you're a seasoned racer or simply looking for a memorable ride, the Wild West Gravel Fest promises an unforgettable experience. Learn more
| | | | |
Much Ado About Nothing at Great Plains Theatre
A GPT Live Lit performance.
Learn more
| | | | |
*CANCELLED* Heritage Day at Dickinson County Heritage Center
The annual Heritage Day Festival features living history with blacksmith and antique agriculture demonstrations, steam engine carousel rides, an antique tractor show, a classic car show, model trains, vendor fair and much more.
Learn more
| | | | |
NGA Fall Meet
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World!
Learn more
| | | |
17 & 18
Friday & Saturday
| |
Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's a sense of enchantment in the atmosphere. In Abilene, Kansas, this time of year is synonymous with the spine-tingling delight of Halloween, and one event that's eagerly awaited is the return of the beloved Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town. This annual favorite promises an unforgettable experience for those who dare to embrace the chills and thrills.
| | | |
24 & 25
Friday & Saturday
| |
Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's a sense of enchantment in the atmosphere. In Abilene, Kansas, this time of year is synonymous with the spine-tingling delight of Halloween, and one event that's eagerly awaited is the return of the beloved Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town. This annual favorite promises an unforgettable experience for those who dare to embrace the chills and thrills.
| | | | |
Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's a sense of enchantment in the atmosphere. In Abilene, Kansas, this time of year is synonymous with the spine-tingling delight of Halloween, and one event that's eagerly awaited is the return of the beloved Haunted Walk at Old Abilene Town. This annual favorite promises an unforgettable experience for those who dare to embrace the chills and thrills.
| | | | |
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn - The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut... but life just isn't the same without a bit of song and dance. Jim's luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. But when Jim's best friend Ted tries to lure Linda to Hollywood to be his new dance partner, will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love? Based on the classic film, this joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including "Blue Skies," "Easter Parade," "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Heat Wave," "White Christmas," "Be Careful, It's My Heart," "Cheek to Cheek," "Shaking the Blues Away" and many more! This production is rated G, perfect for the whole family!
Learn more
| | | | |
Cowtown Christmas
Celebrate the season in Abilene, December 6-7, 2025! Tour stunning homes during the 48th Annual Heritage Homes for the Holidays Tour, enjoy an Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society, and experience a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town. Visit the Historic Seelye Mansion to see over 60 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, ride the Cowtown Santa Express with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, and catch a live holiday show at Great Plains Theatre. Don’t miss the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown evening cruise for dazzling decorations, plenty of Santa sightings, and opportunities to shop small at Abilene’s unique businesses all season long!
| | | | |
48th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour
Discover why USA TODAY readers rank Abilene as one of the Best Historic Small Towns during the Heritage Homes Association's 48th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour! Explore beautifully decorated historic homes and a charming church decked out for the season.
| | |
Experience Art & Culture
| |  |
Journey to the Old West
| | |
Live the American Story
| | |
Explore Ike's Life & Legacy
| | |
| |
Enjoy Family Fun and Learning
| | | |
Stay in Abilene
Abilene is home to more than 200 rooms ready to serve travelers. From national chain hotels to locally-owned motels, award-winning bed and breakfasts, and unique Airbnbs, Abilene's lodging community offers something for every price point.
Learn more
| | | | | |
Gunsmoke Trail
Howdy, partners, and welcome to the Gunsmoke Trail! This road trip visits four cities in Kansas that had a role in Gunsmoke, the Emmy award-winning primetime Western that entertained audiences for 20 years.
The show still runs on select networks, with iconic characters telling the story of frontier life in the Old West. Several present-day cities in Kansas play a part in the show’s storylines, including Wichita, Abilene, Hays City (now Hays), and of course, Dodge City.
Learn more
Itinerary
| | |
201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
| |
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed
| |
| | | |
