Looking for free things to do in Wichita this fall? The Exploration Place Levitt VIBE Concert Series will bring eight weeks of free live music to Wichita. Gather in the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater at Exploration Place, creating a fun gathering place for families, friends, and music lovers along the Arkansas River.
The series runs every Thursday from September 3 through October 29, 2026, and celebrates Wichita’s unique place in music history. Many people don’t realize that Wichita is recognized as the birthplace of the first public performance of the electric guitar, dating back to 1932. The Levitt VIBE Concert Series honors that legacy by featuring talented guitarists and bands performing a variety of styles, including folk, blues, rock, surf, and Latin music.
One of the things I love most about this new series is the location. The Wichita Foundation Amphitheater sits along the Arkansas River near the Keeper of the Plains, making it one of the most scenic places in the city to enjoy an outdoor concert. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, relax on the lawn, and enjoy an evening of live music with family and friends.
The experience goes beyond the music, too. Food vendors will be on-site, and guests can also enjoy everything Exploration Place has to offer, including the museum and the six-acre Destination Playscape (admission to the Musuem is required). It makes for a perfect date night, family outing, or evening with friends.
The Levitt VIBE Concert Series is presented by Exploration Place through a national Levitt VIBE grant program that helps communities transform public spaces through free live music. Wichita was selected to receive a multi-year grant, making 2026 the inaugural season of the concert series.
Exploration Place Free Concert Series
Dates: Thursdays, September 3 – October 29, 2026
Location: Wichita Foundation Amphitheater at Exploration Place
Cost: FREE
2026 Exploration Concert Series Bands
Opening Act at 7pm & Headliner will start at 8pm
- September 3 – Zach Person
- High-Voltae Blues Rock
- September 10 – Indigenous
- Native American Roots Rock
- September 17 – Carolyn Wonderland
- Scorched-EarthTexas Blues
- October 1 – Sunny War
- Folk-Punk Acoustic Soul
- October 8 – Danielia Cotton
- Gospel-Fueled Rock and Soul
- October 15 – The Hooten Hallers
- Swampy Missouri Stomp
- October 22 – Bonnie Whitmore
- Roots Rock with Teeth
- October 29 – Steel Skarecrew
- 90s Country and Red Dirt
What to Expect
- Free live concerts every Thursday evening
- A variety of musical genres featuring exceptional guitarists
- Beautiful riverfront setting near the Keeper of the Plains
- Food vendors
- Open lawn seating (bring a blanket or lawn chair)
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Why I’m Excited
I love seeing more free events come to Wichita, especially ones that bring people together outdoors. Between the riverfront location, the beautiful amphitheater, and eight weeks of live music, I think this is going to become one of Wichita’s best new fall traditions. Whether you’re planning a date night, looking for something fun to do with the kids, or just want to enjoy live music on a beautiful evening, the Levitt VIBE Concert Series is worth checking out.
More Info about the Concerts
How much does it cost?
The Levitt VIBE Concert Series is completely free to attend.
Where is it held?
Concerts take place at the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater at Exploration Place along the Arkansas River near the Keeper of the Plains.
What kind of music will be featured?
The series highlights exceptional guitarists performing genres including folk, blues, rock, surf, and Latin music.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes! The concerts are designed to be welcoming for all ages, with open lawn seating, nearby food vendors, and Exploration Place’s museum and Destination Playscape adding to the experience.
Looking for more free concerts, festivals, and things to do in Wichita? Be sure to visit the Wichita on the Cheap Community Calendar for even more local events happening throughout the year.
