How to Celebrate ethnic festivals in Kansas

The state of Kansas was settled by a diverse population of ethnic groups. Through the years, many of these groups have developed their own festivals to celebrate those ethnic origins. Spending time at these festivals allows those attending a glimpse of different cultures. From the Native American tribes that were the original residents, to European settlers and other newer immigrant groups, Kansans find a way and a reason to celebrate each of them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Discover the heritage of Kansas’ Native American Population. Celebrations are held in a variety of locations around the state at different times of the year. The Haskell Indian University holds a Pow Wow each year in May. Prairie Band Pottawatomie Nation holds a Pow Wow in June and another celebration in September. Other Native American events occur in September, also. Attend the Iowa Tribe Pow Wow or the Kickapoo Pow Wow Days, each in September.
2. If you are interested in European heritage celebrations in Kansas, there are many festivals from which to choose. Those interested in Scottish heritage may want to attend the Scottish Highland Games in Kansas City each June or travel to McPherson in September for the Scottish Festival and Highland Games. For those interested in the Northern European heritage, Lindsborg hosts Svensk Hyllningsfest every other September. The Nordic Heritage Festival in Lawrence is put on each October. Wilson holds the Czech Festival the last weekend in July each year. Attend Oktoberfest in either Hays or Kansas City each fall to celebrate German heritage.
3. Celebrate Mexican heritage in many places around the state at different times of the year. Cinco de Maya celebrations occur in Kansas City and many other communities each May. Lawrence’s St. John’s Church holds a Mexican Fiesta in June. Other celebrations of the Mexican heritage are held in Chanute and Garden City each September.
4. Don’t care what heritage someone is and just want to celebrate with some good food and music? There are several celebrations for everyone. Celebrate several multicultural festivals throughout the state and throughout the year. Kansas City has a huge celebration each August on diversity (OK, this is not technically in Kansas, but it is close!) Salina holds a multi-ethnic festival in May. Go to Great Bend for their Multi-Cultural Festival in September.
5. No matter where you or your ancestors hail from, Kansas can provide a celebration for it. Visit as many festivals as you can; you will gain a good deal of knowledge and eat a bunch of good food along the way.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact each cities chamber of commerce to find out specific information on festivals.