Celebrating the New Year in Wichita: Festive Events and Activities

Welcome to Wichita, the vibrant city that knows how to ring in the New Year in style! If you’re looking for an unforgettable celebration, Wichita has got you covered. From lively parties to familyfriendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on New Year’s Eve. Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and embrace the spirit of new beginnings. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Wichita, including exciting parties, fireworks displays, and more. Let’s dive into the top recommendations to make your New Year’s Eve in Wichita truly memorable!

10 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Wichita

#1. New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Keeper of the Plains

Join the crowd gathered at the iconic Keeper of the Plains for a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky. As the clock strikes midnight, the magnificent flames of the Keeper of the Plains sculpture come alive, followed by a dazzling fireworks show that paints the sky with bursts of color. This breathtaking experience is perfect for all ages and offers a memorable way to welcome the new year.

Suitable for: All ages, families, those who enjoy outdoor spectacles.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: The fireworks display typically starts around midnight.
Where to Stay: Consider staying at a hotel near downtown Wichita, such as Hotel at Old Town or Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview, to be in close proximity to the Keeper of the Plains.
How to Reach: The Keeper of the Plains is located along the Arkansas River, and you can easily reach it by car or public transportation.

💡Tip: Arrive a bit earlier to secure a good viewing spot and take a stroll along the riverside trails.

#2. New Year’s Eve Party at Wave

For an electrifying New Year’s Eve party, head to Wave, one of Wichita’s premier entertainment venues. Dance the night away to the beats of live DJs and experience the vibrant energy of this popular nightclub. Wave offers multiple dance floors, VIP areas, and a diverse range of music genres, ensuring a highenergy celebration to welcome the new year.

Suitable for: Young adults, partygoers, music enthusiasts.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: The New Year’s Eve party at Wave usually starts in the evening and continues until the early hours of the morning.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near downtown Wichita to stay close to the party venue. Hotel at Old Town or Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview are convenient options.
How to Reach: Wave is located in downtown Wichita and can be easily reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Check the event details and purchase tickets in advance to secure your entry.

#3. FamilyFriendly Celebration at Exploration Place

If you’re looking for a familyfriendly New Year’s Eve celebration, Exploration Place is the place to be. This interactive science museum offers a special event filled with handson activities, live demonstrations, and engaging exhibits. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the festive atmosphere, learn something new, and countdown to the new year with joy and excitement.

Suitable for: Families with children, those seeking educational and interactive experiences.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: Exploration Place usually hosts a New Year’s Eve event that starts in the late afternoon and ends around 8 or 9 PM.
Where to Stay: Choose a familyfriendly hotel in downtown Wichita or nearby areas to be close to Exploration Place. Hotel at Old Town or Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview are suitable options.
How to Reach: Exploration Place is located along the Arkansas River and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

💡Tip: Check the museum’s website for event details and any special ticketing requirements.

#4. New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise on the Arkansas River

Embark on a delightful New Year’s Eve dinner cruise along the scenic Arkansas River. Enjoy a gourmet meal, live entertainment, and stunning views as you sail through the night. This romantic and elegant experience is perfect for couples or anyone looking for a sophisticated celebration with a touch of luxury.

Suitable for: Couples, those seeking a romantic and upscale experience.
Rating: ★★★★★
Timings: Dinner cruises typically start in the early evening and continue until after midnight.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near downtown Wichita for easy access to the departure point of the dinner cruise. Hotel at Old Town or Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview are excellent options.
How to Reach: The dinner cruise departure point is usually located along the Arkansas River in downtown Wichita, and you can reach it by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Make reservations in advance to secure your spot on the dinner cruise, as they tend to sell out quickly.

#5. First Night Wichita

Experience the magic of First Night Wichita, a communitywide celebration featuring a variety of entertainment, live performances, art displays, and activities for all ages. This familyfriendly event takes place at multiple venues in downtown Wichita and offers a festive atmosphere to welcome the new year.

Suitable for: All ages, families, those who enjoy community events.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: First Night Wichita typically starts in the evening and continues until after midnight, culminating in a grand finale fireworks display.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel in downtown Wichita to be close to the First Night Wichita venues. Hotel at Old Town or Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview are convenient options.
How to Reach: The event takes place in various locations in downtown Wichita, and you can easily explore the venues on foot.

💡Tip: Check the event schedule in advance to plan your evening and make the most of the activities and performances.

#6. New Year’s Eve Live Music at The Cotillion Ballroom

Head to The Cotillion Ballroom for an unforgettable night of live music and entertainment. This iconic venue hosts a special New Year’s Eve concert featuring renowned bands or artists. Dance to your favorite tunes, enjoy the energetic atmosphere, and create lasting memories as you welcome the new year surrounded by great music.

Suitable for: Music lovers, concertgoers, those seeking a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: The New Year’s Eve concert at The Cotillion Ballroom usually starts in the evening and continues late into the night.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near the venue, such as Best Western Plus Wichita West Airport Inn or Courtyard by Marriott Wichita West, for convenient access.
How to Reach: The Cotillion Ballroom is located west of downtown Wichita and can be reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Purchase tickets in advance as popular concerts may sell out quickly.

#7. New Year’s Eve Comedy Show at The Loony Bin Comedy Club

Laugh your way into the new year at The Loony Bin Comedy Club. This comedy hotspot features hilarious standup performances by talented comedians. Sit back, relax, and enjoy an evening filled with laughter and entertainment as you bid farewell to the previous year with a smile.

Suitable for: Comedy enthusiasts, those who enjoy a lighthearted and laughterfilled celebration.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: The New Year’s Eve comedy show at The Loony Bin Comedy Club usually has multiple showtimes, allowing you to choose a time that suits you best.
Where to Stay: Look for hotels in the vicinity of the comedy club, such as Best Western Wichita North Hotel & Suites or Quality Suites Airport, for easy access.
How to Reach: The Loony Bin Comedy Club is typically located in northeast Wichita and can be reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Arrive early to secure good seats and enjoy preshow drinks or dinner at nearby restaurants.

#8. New Year’s Eve Gaming Fun at Xtreme Racing & Entertainment

Indulge in thrilling gokart racing, arcade games, and other exciting activities at Xtreme Racing & Entertainment. This entertainment center offers a funfilled New Year’s Eve experience for friends and families. Challenge your companions to a friendly race, compete in arcade games, and celebrate the countdown with highenergy entertainment.

Suitable for: Families, groups of friends, gaming enthusiasts.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: Xtreme Racing & Entertainment usually stays open until late on New Year’s Eve, allowing you to enjoy the activities well into the night.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near the entertainment center, such as Hampton Inn & Suites WichitaNortheast or Comfort Inn & Suites Wichita Northeast, for convenient access.
How to Reach: Xtreme Racing & Entertainment is located in northeast Wichita and can be easily reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Check for any special New Year’s Eve packages or deals offered by the venue.

#9. New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at a Fine Dining Restaurant

Indulge in a luxurious and elegant New Year’s Eve dinner at one of Wichita’s top fine dining restaurants. Many upscale establishments offer special gala dinners featuring delectable multicourse meals, fine wines, and live music. Treat yourself to a culinary extravaganza and

savor exquisite flavors as you toast to a new year of possibilities.

Suitable for: Couples, food enthusiasts, those seeking a refined and sophisticated celebration.
Rating: ★★★★★
Timings: Gala dinners at fine dining restaurants usually start in the early evening and continue until after midnight.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near downtown Wichita or the restaurant of your choice for a seamless dining experience. The Ambassador Hotel Wichita or The Wichita Marriott are excellent options.
How to Reach: The fine dining restaurants are typically located in downtown Wichita or prominent areas of the city and can be reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Make reservations well in advance, as these exclusive dinners tend to fill up quickly.

#10. New Year’s Day Brunch at a Local Eatery

After a night of celebration, recharge and welcome the new year with a delicious brunch at one of Wichita’s popular local eateries. Many restaurants offer special New Year’s Day brunch menus featuring a wide array of culinary delights. Enjoy a leisurely meal, savor hearty dishes, and relish the laidback atmosphere as you begin the year on a satisfying note.

Suitable for: Families, food enthusiasts, those looking for a relaxed and enjoyable start to the new year.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Timings: New Year’s Day brunches are typically served from late morning to early afternoon.
Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near the eatery of your choice or opt for one with its own renowned brunch, such as DoubleTree by Hilton Wichita Airport or Hyatt Regency Wichita.
How to Reach: The local eateries offering brunch options are spread throughout the city and can be reached by car or rideshare services.

💡Tip: Check for any special brunch promotions or make reservations if required, as popular spots may have limited seating.

Enjoy these additional options for a fantastic New Year’s Eve and New Year celebration in Wichita. Whether you prefer live music, comedy, gaming, fine dining, or a delightful brunch, the city offers a range of choices to suit various tastes and preferences. Embrace the festive spirit, plan ahead, and create unforgettable memories as you ring in the new year in style.