Abilene Tourism Advocate
December 21, 2023
Best Small Town to Visit in the U.S. - TravelAwaits (2023)
Celebrating a Remarkable 2023 in Abilene, Kansas!
As we bid farewell to an extraordinary year, the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau is thrilled to reflect on the incredible milestones and successes that made 2023 a truly remarkable year for our beloved city!

While not exhaustive, here are the top 15 achievements that we're bursting with pride to share:
Time is running out to see "By the Numbers" at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Paint by number kits became increasingly popular in the 1950s. They were so popular that Eisenhower’s scheduling secretary handed out kits to many of the Oval Office visitors with instructions to complete and return their kit. This pet project of Thomas Edwin Stephens resulted in a humorous and treasured gift to President Eisenhower. Aware of Ike's fondness for painting, this 'curated exhibit' was proudly displayed around the White House West Wing. Today, this collection forms the core of the Eisenhower Presidential Library’s exhibit By the Numbers. Come visit and take a nostalgic look at these friendly, thoughtful gifts to the “painter president.”
Showing dates: March - December 2023
'Tis the Season at the Historic Seelye Mansion
In the heart of Abilene, Kansas, lies a true architectural gem, named one of the "8 Wonders of Kansas - Architecture" by the Kansas Sampler Foundation – the Seelye Mansion. Steeped in history and elegance, this three-story Georgian-style mansion invites you to experience the grandeur of a bygone era. As the holiday season approaches, the Seelye Mansion transforms into a festive wonderland, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
2024 American Flag Sponsorship
It's that time of year again! The Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau is raising money to purchase flags for the 2024 season.

Visitors frequently comment about the beautiful flags, and with your help, we can continue this tradition.

Flag sponsorships remain at $25 each. Learn more at www.AbileneKansas.org/flags.

2023 Sponsors:
  1. Scott Litke
  2. Rawhide Portable Corral
  3. Carol Spitcaufsky
  4. Peterson Monuments & Designs
  5. John's Service
  6. Kurt Phillips
  7. Theresa Brierton
  8. Lawrence & Connie Cooper
  9. Vine Creek Accounting
  10. Chuck & Ann Brussow
  11. Brandon L. Rein
  12. Cathy Strowig
  13. Duri Ridge Free State Armory, LLC
  14. Amanda West State Farm
  15. McCallson Tax & Accounting
  16. Solomon State Bank
  17. First Bank Kansas
  18. Geske Interiors
  19. Wendell & Nancy Gugler Charitable Giving Fund
  20. Bill & Dee Marshall
  21. Jennifer Green
  22. Bill & Dee Marshall
  23. Mitzi Gose
  24. Tony & Sarah Geiger
  25. West's Country Mart
  26. Rick & Marcia Williamson
  27. M&R Grill
  28. Harlan & Peggy Janke
  29. Pinnacle Bank
  30. Danner Funeral Home
  31. Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home
  32. Robson Oil Co. Inc. / Corner Stop / Liberty
  33. Bill & Nanc Scholl
  34. In Memory of William "Kim" Bogart
  35. In Memory of Leah Swinny
  36. In Memory of Dalmas & Barb Coates
  37. Sonic Drive-In of Abilene
  38. Auburn Pharmacy
  39. National Greyhound Association
  40. Kenton & Stephanie Clark
  41. Bruce & Denise Youtsey
  42. Great Plains Federal Credit Union
  43. Everett's Inc.
  44. Jim & Pattie Mayhew
  45. Lumber House Inc.
  46. Casey & Jane Foltz
  47. Holm Automotive Center
  48. Abilene Animal Hospital, P.A.
  49. Next Home Unlimited - Becky Schwab
  50. George W. McCormic, Sr.
  51. In Memory of Joyce & Gordon Kippenberger 
  52. Emilies Bauernhof
  53. Abilene Rent-All & Sales
  54. In Memory of Jack & Betty Schneider
  55. Pioneer Farm & Ranch
  56. Bill & Marlene Howe
  57. The Abilene Group Financial Advisors
  58. Greyhound Hall of Fame
  59. The Brown Memorial Foundation
  60. Patterson Healthcare Pharmacy
  61. Russell Stover Chocolates
  62. Greg Barrett
  63. Mildred Hanson
  64. John & Judy Anguiano
  65. Veronica Murray
  66. General Dwight D. Eisenhower VFW Post 3279
  67. Charles Weaver
  68. Gale Whitehair
  69. Memorial Health System
  70. Rod & Tracey Kuecker
  71. Richard & Sharon Evers
  72. George & Patricia K. Taplin 
  73. Eisenhower Foundation
  74. Faith Lutheran Church
  75. Jane M Schenck

As of 12/21/2023
Abilene, Kansas
Latest News
2024 Events
April
22-26
National Greyhound Association Spring Meet
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World! Learn more
April
27
Eisenhower Marathon
Runners at the Eisenhower Marathon and Half Marathon wind through the territory south of Abilene that cattlemen followed when bringing their herds to Abilene on the Chisholm Trail in the 1800s. Learn more
May
11
6th Annual Antique Fest
Make your way to Abilene for the return of Abilene Antique Fest. Featuring outside booths and four antique malls, shoppers can browse the antiques and re-purposed items from more than 100 vendors. Learn more
June
1
Symphony at Sunset
Commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day at this meaningful outdoor concert held on our beautiful campus grounds. This concert is always held on the first Saturday in June in partnership with the Salina Symphony and Eisenhower Foundation. Plus, free museum admission all day! Learn more
July
4
Old Fashioned Fourth of July
An Old-Fashioned 4th of July in Abilene, Kansas, is a celebration deeply rooted in community spirit, patriotic pride, and cherished traditions. As the Heart of America, Abilene honors Independence Day with a nostalgic flair, offering residents and visitors an experience that returns to a simpler time. Learn more
July
30
Central Kansas Free Fair Parade
The parade kicks off the annual Central Kansas Free Fair. The 2024 Parade begins at 4 p.m., Tuesday*, July 30, at 7th Street and Buckeye Avenue (Highway 15) and proceeds south to 3rd Street and west to Washington Street. Learn more
July - August
30 - 4
100th Central Kansas Free Fair
Located in Abilene, the Central Kansas Free Fair is one of the largest in the state. This family-friendly event offers educational activities and entertainment for all ages, including the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo, which has been frequently voted one of the top outdoor rodeos. Join us for family fun in Abilene! Learn more
August
1 - 4
Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo
Witness the excitement of the rodeo, where skilled cowboys and cowgirls compete in thrilling events. Learn more
August
5 & 6
Demolition Derby
Visit Abilene, Kansas, for one of the best demolition derbies in the region!
A demolition derby is a thrilling motorsport event where participants intentionally ram their modified vehicles into one another until only one remains operational, emphasizing both skillful driving and vehicular durability. Learn more
September
20 & 21
7th Annual Oktoberfest
Join the Oktoberfest party, returning to downtown Abilene in 2024! Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with authentic German music, captivating dancers, and mouthwatering cuisine that will transport you straight to the heart of Bavaria. Learn more
October
5
46th Annual Heritage Day
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
October
14-18
National Greyhound Association Fall Meet
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World! Learn more
November
22
Pink Friday
We've all heard of Black Friday, American Express Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday, but what about Pink Friday?
Pink Friday is a small business spin on the traditional Black Friday shopping experience, reminding people to #ShopSmallFirst.Take the pledge!
December
7 & 8
Cowtown Christmas
Visit Abilene December 7-8, 2024, for the Heritage Homes Association's Homes 47th Annual for the Holidays tour, enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Historical Society and a Cowboy Christmas at Old Abilene Town, tour the Historic Seelye Mansion and see more than 60 beautifully decorated Christmas Trees, ride the rails with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad's Cowtown Santa Express, see the live holiday production at Great Plains Theatre, take an evening cruise and see Griswold-style decorations during the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see Santa, and remember to shop small all season long at Abilene’s small businesses!
Community Attractions
Experience Art & Culture

Journey to the Old West

Live the American Story

Explore Ike's Life & Legacy

Have an Adventure


Enjoy Family Fun and Learning

201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed