School's Out Fest at Rackets Tap House

Live music by Thorn Haze, The Fiddlers, The Lazy Wayne Band, Food Trucks, and more!

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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!

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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

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

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Old Abilene Town Opens for the Season

Experience the Wild West in action at Old Abilene Town, open Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Watch thrilling gunfights, be entertained by the lively Can-Can dancers, and explore historic museums and skilled artisans showcasing their crafts.

Opening Day Celebration – Ryan’s Rally

Join us for Ryan’s Rally on Opening Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a Poker Run, Car Show, Family Fun Day, vendors, Can-Can girls, and gunfights.

Saturday Specials

Every Saturday, a featured food truck will be on-site, offering delicious options to enjoy while taking in the sights and sounds of Old Abilene Town.

Location: Old Abilene Town, Abilene, Kansas

Season: Saturdays & Sundays, Memorial Day - Labor Day

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Wild Bill Barrel Bash

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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!

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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.

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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

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!

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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.

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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.

Disney * Pixar's Finding Nemo Jr. at Great Plains Theatre

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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.

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*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. 

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NGA Fall Meet

See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World!

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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.

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!

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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.