Eisenhower Presidential Library Presents The Well-Lit Shadow | | |
The Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, in collaboration with Kansas State University Theatre students, is hosting an original, full stage production. The Well-Lit Shadow was inspired by archival materials and historical documents from the Eisenhower Presidential Library archives. This fictional dramatic work transforms history into a dynamic, live theatrical experience. The production will take place in the Eisenhower Presidential Library building auditorium, bringing the archives to life on stage.
Performance Dates and Times:
- Friday, May 22, 2026 – 7 p.m.
- Saturday, May 23, 2026 – 7 p.m.
- Sunday, May 24, 2026 – 2 p.m.
Seats are free, but reservations are required. You can reserve tickets here: www.eventbrite.com/e/the-well-lit-shadow-tickets-1984481572805.
The play was developed as part of the America 250 celebration and showcases the creativity and artistry of K-State students and faculty. The 2026 programming season is dedicated to celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Join us throughout the year as we examine President Eisenhower's top accomplishments in the continual pursuit of a more perfect Union. These programs are all made possible courtesy of The Eisenhower Foundation.
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| Guys & Dolls Opens at Great Plains Theatre May 29 | Luck, laughter and classic Broadway fun are headed to Abilene as Guys and Dolls opens May 29 at Great Plains Theatre! From high-stakes gamblers to unlikely romances, this beloved musical brings colorful characters, memorable songs and plenty of charm to the stage. Make plans to enjoy an evening of live theatre in America’s Best Historic Small Town! | Run with History: Discover the Greyhound Hall of Fame Museum in Abilene, Kansas | | Are you ready for a journey through the thrilling world of greyhound racing? Look no further than the Greyhound Hall of Fame Museum in Abilene, Kansas, the Greyhound Capital of the World. This hidden gem is more than just a museum; it's an experience that offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of these magnificent racing dogs. | | |
Cowboys helped shape the story of Abilene, and that western spirit still rides strong today!
This custom cowboy boot, inspired by Abilene’s cowtown heritage and the Chisholm Trail, is proudly displayed at Cowboy Stadium as part of the community’s school athletic facilities. It is a fun and colorful reminder that western pride is still part of everyday life in Abilene, Kansas.
That cowboy legacy can still be experienced throughout the community, from the Cowboy Art Trail and Old Abilene Town to the stories of the cowboys who once ended their long journey here at the end of the trail.
The West still lives here!
Because America likes cowboys!
| | 2026 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. | | | |
National Greyhound Association Spring Nationals
See the world's fastest canine in action and learn why Abilene is the Greyhound (dog) Capital of the World! Learn more
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School's Out Fest
School’s out, and the fun is in full swing! Kick off summer in Abilene, Kansas, with School’s Out Fest—a full day of family-friendly activities, live music, sidewalk chalk art, and fantastic food and drinks in the heart of historic downtown. Learn more
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Historic Seelye Mansion Tea - *SOLD OUT*
Guests are invited to experience an elegant afternoon at the historic Seelye Mansion during a special high tea on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Learn more
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Guys & Dolls at Great Plains Theatre
Join us in the heart of NYC in the 1950s. Gamblers, missionaries, and dancers run Times Square in this musical comedy. With hits like, "Luck Be a Lady" and "Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat," this family show is sure to entertain. We love it "A Bushel and a Peck!" Learn more
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Symphony at Sunset Annual D-Day Commemoration
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
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Lost Towns of Kansas (Chapman Center for Rural Studies) Learn more
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Church Basement Ladies at Great Plains Theatre
Join us in the basement of a rural Minnesota church in the 1960s where the ladies are cooking up lots of laughs. Navigating changes in the church and in their own lives while making casseroles, this musical is sure to leave you with a full heart (and a hungry stomach). Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 6 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Auntie M's Attic (period clothing) Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: Women's Suffrage (Marla Matkin) Learn more
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Naturalization Ceremony at Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Learn more
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Memories of the Prairie at Dickinson County Heritage Center @ 7 p.m.
Experience first-hand stories, educational programs and re-enactors bring history to life at the Historical Society and Museum on Saturdays during the summer. Come learn about the history of Dickinson County and Kansas from those that have lived it. Topic: The Minersville Story Learn more
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Cinderella at Great Plains Theatre
You are cordially invited to the GPT castle to enjoy the fairytale you know and love. Dance the night away with us - we promise you'll be home before midnight! Learn more
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Petals at Their Peak Garden Showcase
Eisenhower Park Rose Garden, 500 NW Pine St., Abilene, KS
7:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Celebrate the beauty of the Eisenhower Park Rose Garden during peak bloom. Enjoy vibrant annuals and perennials, perfect for morning photos and a peaceful stroll through the garden. Landscape Designer Joy Maas and Horticulturist Assistant Sarah Taylor will be on site to answer gardening questions. “Petals at Their Peak” T-shirts will be available for $25, and a gardening booklet based on the popular “You Too Can Have a Green Thumb” class will be offered for a donation to Friends of the Park.
This year’s color theme is Red, White & Blue in celebration of America 250. Learn more
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Union Pacific "Big Boy" Returns
Rail fans, take note! The legendary Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 will travel from Topeka to Salina on Thursday, July 23, following the same route it took in 2024 when it passed through Abilene.
The excursion is part of a historic coast-to-coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, making this a special chance to see a moving piece of railroad history. Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair
Mark Your Calendars: Central Kansas Free Fair Returns to Abilene – July 28 to August 2, 2026.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Central Kansas Free Fair. This beloved tradition continues to shine as one of the region’s favorite summertime events! Learn more
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Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo
Get ready for action-packed nights at the Wild Bill Hickok PRCA Rodeo, July 28 - 31! Watch as talented cowboys and cowgirls showcase their skills in exciting rodeo events. Learn more
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Central Kansas Free Fair - Parade
Experience the excitement of the Central Kansas Free Fair, starting with the annual parade on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. Don’t miss this annual tradition! Learn more
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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. Learn more
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Eisenhower Foundation's Annual Eisenhower Legacy Gala
This exclusive Gala honors General and President Eisenhower with a reception, dinner, and keynote speaker. Learn more
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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
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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. Learn more
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Cowtown Christmas
Celebrate the season in Abilene, December 4-6, 2026! Tour stunning homes during the 49th 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 and ride the Cowtown Santa Express with the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. 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! Learn more
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Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
The mean green Grinch is making hs way to Abilene for the holidays! Your heart will grow three sizes the day you come see this family-friendly holiday celebration on stage. Featuring the story and music you know and love. This musical is the perfect addition to your holiday traditions. Learn more
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49th Homes for the Holiday Tour
Discover why USA TODAY readers rank Abilene as one of the Best Historic Small Towns during the Heritage Homes Association's 49th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour! Explore beautifully decorated historic homes and a charming church decked out for the season. Learn more
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Experience Art & Culture
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Journey to the Old West
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Live the American Story
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Explore Ike's Life & Legacy
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Enjoy Family Fun and Learning
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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
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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
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201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
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Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed
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