It’s August and pumpkin spice is making an early comeback
It’s August, and even though temperatures are oppressively low, many popular grocery and coffee chains are offering pumpkin spice-flavored fall menu items.
Straight Arrow News
As summer draws to a close and the weather begins to cool, some are ready to plan their fall outdoor adventures.
Whether it’s apple picking, pumpkin carving or enjoying pumpkin-flavored drinks and treats, several upcoming festivals celebrate fall in Kansas.
Here’s a look at some of the fall festivals happening within a few hours of Topeka.
The Cider Days Fall Market is in its 43rd year at the Stormont Vail Events Center’s Exhibit Hall. More than 250 artisans, creators, makers, picker booths and more will be on site. Attractions typically include live entertainment, pie baking contests, face painting and more.
When: Saturday, September 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, September 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Fall Festival and Swap Meet is the 46th annual event located at 8275 Highway K-4 in Meriden. The festival includes day-long activities such as a flea market, arts and crafts, tractor rides, exhibits, live music and more. Concessions are also available. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free, while adults pay $5 per day (cash only).
When: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29.
The Kansas State Fair was one of the largest events in Kansas and was held at 2000 North Poplar in Hutchinson. It featured exhibits, agriculture and more. Visitors can expect dairy cattle demonstrations, the George Sanders Blues Band, the Rockland Road Band and other live entertainment.
General admission tickets for the 10-day event range from $4 to $10. Tickets can be purchased online at the Kansas State Fair website.
When: Times vary depending on the day and event. Friday, September 6th to Sunday, September 15th.
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The 38th Shawnee Indian Mission Fall Festival will be held at the Shawnee Indian Mission, 3403 W. 53rd St. in Fairway. Attendees can expect educational opportunities, live music and dancers, wagon rides, food trucks, vendors and more.
Jennifer Laughlin, site director, said there will be something for every age group. A donation of $3 per person is suggested for the festival.
When: Saturday, October 12th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Overland Park Fall Festival is held in downtown Overland Park at 7935 Santa Fe Drive and features an arts and crafts market, children’s entertainment, performances by local artists, food, vendors and more. Visitors have the opportunity to see up to four stages of live performances.
Desiree Pickert, marketing and communications specialist, said the Fall Festival celebration is an integral part of the community.
“It’s like fall could start now because we were at the Fall Festival in Overland Park,” Pickert said. “It’s so fun to see the whole community come together.”
When: Friday, September 27, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, September 28, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Keishera Lately is a business reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. Reach her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at @Lately_KT.
