Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Winfield Convention & Tourism. All opinions and photos are mine.
Live music. Delicious food. Arts and crafts. Camping outdoors.
The Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas, is an experience you must have, and my first visit was one for the memory book.
After stopping at the 51st Annual Walnut Valley Festival entrance, a volunteer approached the driver’s side window and asked, “You have any aliens with you?”
“Not today,” I replied.
“Ok, just checking. Enjoy the festival,” he said.
“This is going to be a fun adventure,” I thought.
The annual festival takes place the third weekend in September, drawing fans of Bluegrass, Americana, Celtic, Western swing, and Folk music.
LIVE MUSIC
I was impressed to discover that you’re bound to find live music anywhere you venture at the Winfield Fairgrounds. Over 200 hours of music is played on stages over four days from 9:00 a.m. – midnight featuring renowned performers.
FOUR STAGES
Stages 1-4 vary in size from grandstand to small venue. Because musicians play various stages throughout the festival, you can see your favorite band more than once if you check the schedule.
Since we attended the festival on a one-day pass, I wanted to make the most of the experience by viewing each stage’s performance at least once.
Becky Buller Band got audience member tapping their toes and clapping to the rhythm. Nominated for 2021 IBMA Songwriter of the Year, I appreciated the lyrics to many of her uplifting songs. Considered one of the First Ladies of Bluegrass, she moved the crowd to a roaring applause after each song.
At Stage 2, we captured the experimental stylings of guitarist Shane Hennessy. The audience sat in awe as he used percussive guitar-playing techniques to deliver a lively performance.
Catching the last few songs of his set, I appreciated his approach to picking the guitar while using pedals to incorporate the sound of an entire band, from drums to lead guitar.
Jam band Pretend Friend delivered a rousing performance from another nearby stage mid-afternoon. They sang original songs, and lead singer Grant Boesen’s vocals reached the back of the audience.
Backed up by well-revered musicians playing mandolin, bass, and banjo, the band delivered a high-energy, memorable performance.
We returned to Stage 2 (my favorite of the main stages) just as Darin & Brooke Aldridge and their backup band began a soundcheck. The audience’s smiles began to appear within minutes of their first song.
Their talented musicianship was evident as they riffed off one another, taking turns to play solo performances.
A fan of Celtic music, I wanted to catch JigJam‘s session on Stage 1. Delivering what they call “foot-stomping, high-energy, and lots of badass” Bluegrass and American Folk music. The lead singer, Offaly Jamie McKoegh, entertained the crowd by telling stories between songs.
PRO TIP: Take advantage of the Champion Showcase Concert, NewSong Showcase, and other championship competitions categorized by instrument and picking style. View Walnut Valley News to view the winners.
CAMPGROUND STAGES
At Walnut Valley Festival, the jam never ends.
Multiple campground stages exist, like Stage 5 in the Pecan Grove. Weekend campers set up their makeshift stages, giving musician friends a venue to play.
One of the pop-up venues, Stage 6, is one of the oldest camp stages at the festival and hosted Feisty Music Camp for Kids, giving youth a place to perform a concert. Learn more about all of the campers’ stages.
CAMPING
It’s a full-tilt camper’s party and a picker’s paradise at Pecan Grove, and it starts with Land Rush when campers claim their site long before the festival starts.
Veteran campsites use banners to identify their location, making it easy for friends to find them and join their jam circle. The more years a group has camped at the festival, it seemed the larger their banner and gathering site.
And the creative decorations are often thematic to match the campsite’s name. Would they win first place for the best-designed space? It’s up to the judges.
But these campers realize someone that newbies like us didn’t realize until seeing it first-hand. Walnut Valley Festival is its own community. It’s a welcoming place where great music, food, and conversations make it worthwhile.
I saw campers of all ages at the festival. Adults played cornhole, kids got their faces painted, and everyone generally loved the atmosphere.
FOOD TRUCK SCENE
Festival organizers know that you have to have excellent food concessions. Walnut Valley Festival’s food court includes over two dozen vendors. Fried food, vegan dishes, ethnic entrees, smoked meat dishes – no matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it.
Most food truck items started at $5 and went up. I suggest bringing $20 per person to enjoy a full meal with a drink.
PRO TIP: Don’t assume all food truck vendors accept credit cards, although most do. ATMs are available.
BEER & WINE GARDEN
We were thrilled to see Ladybird Brewing Company (Winfield) and several regional craft breweries on tap in the Picker’s Pub. I enjoyed Ladybird’s Picking’ Pale Ale from shaded picnic table seating while watching a live show perform on Stage 1.
I loved the souvenir festival cup, although the price of the first beer was expensive at $15. (Each additional beer pour is $5.)
ARTS & CRAFT VENDORS
Another festival highlight is perusing the Paulette Rush Arts & Crafts Show, which hosts makers nationwide. Over 100 vendors sell clothing, wood crafts, instruments, candles, artwork, and jarred jams and jellies.
Colorful tapestries hang from booth walls. Tie-die shirts, dresses, and many hats hang from clothing racks. Shoppers leisurely wind their way in and out of booths.
If it’s a band’s merchandise you’re after, you’ll find it available in a designated area after each band’s show. Musicians often remind fans where to find them when they wrap a set.
FARMERS MARKET VENDORS
A handful of farmers’ market vendors sell fresh produce and gourmet foods from tables near the Pecan Grove campsite.
This mini grocery market of sorts is just the thing campers and festival-goers need to stay fueled during a weekend. Besides, you never know when you may want to share a whole fruit pie, right?
FIRST-TIME VISITOR TIPS
WHAT TO EXPECT
First, expect the unexpected. A sofa at a campsite? Check. Massage therapy sessions inside a barn? Check. Golf carts decorated with party lights? Check.
Second, the festival is well-managed and a safe place to hang out. Staff and volunteers do an excellent job of keeping attendees comfortable and happy to the best of their ability. Attendees take pride in the festival by keeping the fairgrounds clean.
Thirdly, you’ll be surprised to see people getting work done on laptops and phones. Our cell phone signal, typically strong elsewhere, wasn’t strong at the fairground – except at The Wi-Fi Café.
Lastly, bringing collapsible chairs is advisable as standing to watch shows isn’t appreciated (blocks the view!), and typical band sessions last 45 minutes.
We appreciated the Walnut Valley for First-Timer’s landing page that detailed what to expect and proper attendee etiquette. After some study, we’re glad we didn’t wear white T-shirts. (You’ll find out why if you do a little reading.)
WHAT TO PACK
For what it’s worth, we were glad we packed a refillable water bottle, bagged chairs, a change of shoes, and sunscreen.
Regulars know the drill. You see more people wearing hats than not, and umbrellas are not out of the question on a hot Kansas day.
Do you need a bicycle or golf cart to navigate the fairgrounds? Not necessarily, but you should be prepared to increase your step count if walking to and from campsites. Ask about Festi-Cab, a golf cart ride for a minimal fee.
You’ll want to buy the latest festival T-shirt to wear with pride to next year’s celebration. We noticed dozens of audience members wearing them.
STAYING INFORMED
DAILY NEWSLETTER
A paper newsletter is distributed daily at no cost to attendees from the fairground office. Media staff compiled news, cartoons, and contest information into a two-page document.
DOWNLOAD THE APP
You should download the Walnut Valley Festival mobile app to stay up-to-date on happenings and receive the latest notifications. It’s a one-stop resource for most things you’ll find in the festival program in the palm of your hand.
EXPLORING WINFIELD
For bonus ideas of things to do in town, check out my travel post, Winfield, Kansas: Day Trip Ideas for a Guaranteed Good Time. Many downtown businesses run promotions in celebration of the festival.
Didn’t get to join the jam? Save next year’s celebration date, September 18 through 22, 2024, for the 52nd Walnut Valley Festival on your calendar. Land rush will be here before you know it.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Someone told me at the festival, “Once you experience Walnut Valley Festival, it gets in your bones, and you’re hooked.”
He was right.
We had an epic experience, and I can’t wait to return. Will I camp? I have yet to decide, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you hear me utter the phrase, “I can’t, I’m going to Winfield.”
Click my Instagram reel for a video recap of the 51st Walnut Valley Festival.
The north-central community of over 45,000 people has much to be proud of. Daytrippers will be impressed by the downtown area’s thoughtful design and unique businesses with something for every kind of traveler.
THE BATH PUB
The staff can also help you recreate a scent from an item you bring into the store, like an old perfume bottle or candle.
The fun continues throughout the store. Visitors are encouraged to take a photo in the store window’s bathtub. Children accompanying parents will enjoy the kids-only area that encourages artful play.
The smell of new books welcomes you as you walk through oversized wood doors into the store. The store’s shelves are organized by category while stacks of the latest titles are arranged upon dark wood tables.
But you’ll find more than books at Red Fern Booksellers. I was impressed to discover hand-made gift wrap, stationary for sale, puzzles, stickers, and handcrafted greeting cards. My visit ended perfectly when a butterfly greeted me as I exited the store, a delightful experience.
Whether you’re in the mood to create a seasonal gift for your home or a complete dishware set, On The Pot provides all the supplies you need to finish the project.
Be sure to check out their inventory of Julie’s Stickers, a collection of whimsical drawings and sayings, to add to your purchase. The owners are in the process of creating five downtown Salina stickers to sell as well.
PRO TIP: Traveling with family? Groups of 10 or more can book the studio for a reduced rate on studio fees with a 
From outfits with vibrant colors to unique Cansuelas handbags, the store lives up to its motto, “Be a Little Eccentric.” Shoppers searching for day-to-day closet staples will also find what they’re looking for.
The clothing and shoes inventory is constantly rotating for the seasons, and shoppers are guaranteed to find sizes available from XS to XL.
Beautifully upholstered chairs sit adjacent to elegant lamps and candleholders. Ornate plates adorn tabletops. Framed artwork, figurines, blankets, and garden urns reveal the shop’s distinctly different inventory. Body products and greeting cards near the register make a fabulous gift for a friend.
PRO TIP: Browse Baron Mushmouse’s clothing racks for Bohemian-style blouses, dresses, and dark denim jeans.
Every well-equipped kitchen needs decorative towels and cookbooks with a pantry stocked with dip mixes and jarred condiments. You’ll find it all and more at The Market Shop.
PRO TIP: Wind your way through the store’s thematic displays for scented candles and home decor. The rear of the store is a clothing paradise for fashion-forward women.
A new outfit isn’t complete without matching accessories. Blushe Boutique’s selection of hats, jewelry, and shoes makes shopping for a last-minute dinner date a breeze.
PRO TIP: Because the store stocks seasonal clothing, check the clearance racks in the rear of the store for mega deals.
Locally-made furniture, art, and pottery are the focus of the shop’s inventory, and Flipping Fabulous carries most of the supplies one needs for at-home projects. You’ll discover the most extensive stock of Redesign with Prima in the world and Melange One Paints.
PRO TIP: Walk upstairs to admire custom-made gifts and home decor created by local and regional artists.
Thanks to ever-changing displays, you’re guaranteed to see something you want to purchase each time you visit.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend about half an hour inspecting the store to see everything it offers. If you bring a gal pal to shop, prepare to spend more time because so many of the finds are conversation-inducing.
The café offers patrons a place to sit back and relax with a book or meet as a small group.
PRO TIP: Check the 
The menu consists of “world regional” fare, which to my surprise, includes 15 types of sushi rolls as well as nigiri and sashimi platters.
The linen tablecloths, orchestral music playing in the background, and robust menu options deliver an unforgettable meal experience at Barolo Grille.
I stopped for a refreshing margarita only to discover it was already Happy Hour at 2:30 pm. The setting was relaxed, and I made conversation with the bartender between sips while sports played on the TVs. I look forward to returning for lunch and Horchata Bread Pudding.
I felt like a kid again, savoring every bite of Lemon Custard ice cream as a Dagney’s employee shaped homemade waffle cones behind the counter. The color-changing plastic spoon made the whole experience nostalgic.
Choosing my entree, Penne Carbonara with Chicken, wasn’t easy because the menu ranged from seafood dishes and steaks to wood-fired pizzas. I appreciated the pasta dish, topped with a raw egg yolk that I was encouraged to stir into the black pepper cream sauce before enjoying it.
While all the street art designs are worth discussing, the enormity of the Mural at the Mill (343 N. Santa Fe Ave.) by Guido van Helten begs visitors for a closer look. The Australian muralist’s work wraps around all sides.
There is a buzz of creative momentum in Salina’s downtown. You can feel it as you shop, eat, and admire the area’s art scene. I recommend spending the day exploring it like a local.
No. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.
During lunchtime, locals gravitate to the coffee shop to market fresh sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The day I visited, the owner made homemade bierocks in the kitchen. Each day, the chalkboard displays a new menu special. Locals told me the Chicken Salad on Croissant sandwich is a must-have menu item.
Goff wants the mural’s vibrant colors to attract viewers who use it as an interactive backdrop to take selfies. I didn’t hesitate to take one with the sunflower’s petals in the background. The artist said she may not sign the mural because “it belongs to the town.”
Artist Majorie Hall Bicker painted a scene depicting moments in Wellington’s history around the corner from BeeHive Quilt Shop on 7th Street. Dedicated to the city in 2000, visiting the mural should be part of everyone’s visit to town.
PRO TIP: Keep your eyes peeled for ghost signs that appear faded on downtown buildings. The 120-year-old Jacob Engle Dry Goods sign at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Street was recently restored for Wellington’s 150th anniversary.
Another can’t-miss architectural wonder, The Pink House (114 S. Jefferson), is a sight for the eyes. Unlike any other residence in Wellington, the home is not open to visitors, but people often take photos with it in the background.
The park features picnic areas, playground equipment for the kiddos, a sand volleyball pit, and fishing areas. The well-maintained disc golf course includes concrete pads and wide fairways for beginner to moderately difficult play.
Outside, the historical tour continues with the Bronze Field Guns exhibit. The cannons were delivered upon the request of the Grand Army of the Republic James Post of Wellington in 1909. Delivered in 1915, they serve as a memorial.
PRO TIP: Visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to purchase branded merchandise, including ground coffee, t-shirts, holiday ornaments, and more.
Interestingly enough, the building itself is a historical treasure. Once known as Hatcher Hospital, Dr. A. R. Hatcher and his staff treated patients using state-of-the-art equipment in pristine conditions. The building was gifted to the Chisholm Trail Museum in 1965.
Of course, I was fascinated by the room designed to resemble a vintage soda fountain complete with a vinyl booth, ice cream dishes, and the “Let’s Sell Ice Cream” book once used at the Chief Drug Soda Fountain until 1986.
At age 85, Perry enthusiastically gives guided tours of the museum, pointing out items he curated or gifted to him, like the two-sided depot bench and original Santa Fe merchandise featuring the company mascot, Chico. A clock wall displays timepieces that were inspected for the correct time to ensure trains arrived on schedule.
Aside from the impressive collection, it’s possible that Perry’s love of all things railroad will rub off on you. Not only did I learn about railroad employees’ work, but I also had a better appreciation for the industry that helped develop so many Kansas towns, including Wellington.
At 
Besides beautiful apparel, Bay & Brielle Co.’s accessories are on par with the latest trends. A collection of seasonal shoes, hats, and colorful handbags make completing an outfit a cinch.
Most of the inventory caters to shoppers looking for a refined rustic or farmhouse deco style. A corner of the store even carries nursery decor and toys for parents or grandparents looking for something new. Shopping at Salty Creek Decor is an interior designer’s dream and is sure to inspire.
I tried something out of my comfort zone and sampled the highly recommended fresh pork rinds with pepper jack cheese and spinach queso, which I devoured. The rinds arrived at the table, crackling fresh from the fryer.
My server recommended that I save room for dessert, and even though I was full, I couldn’t turn down caramel churros with vanilla ice cream drizzled with honey and chocolate. 100% delicious.
Wellington is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring some of the top attractions in south-central Kansas. A short drive from Wichita, I was delighted to meet residents who made me feel welcome, and there were unlimited places to explore. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.
Outdoor enthusiasts love it for its recreational options. It sits on the edge of the Flint Hills and near waterways in Cowley County. Shoppers appreciate the downtown corridors for the town’s long list of boutiques and retail stores. I discovered noteworthy dining while spending the day in Winfield as well.
During the opening day of the market, I purchased a baked lemon loaf and walked away with a jar of preserves. Other vendors sold seasonal produce, leather goods, jewelry, soaps, and gifts.
From the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) is for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.
When in Winfield, promise yourself you’ll stop at College Hill Coffee. You can order from a window on the porch (seating available!) or dine inside. They serve breakfast all day and 
I learned from Rick about the numerous plant varieties and the growing habits of lavender as we walked the property. The farm has 28 varieties and he plans to add 15 more in due time. His family is dedicated to providing lavender to as many people who want it.
They grow lavender from seedlings inside a greenhouse and eventually move it outside to be planted in rows. What started as something to do in Rick’s retirement has blossomed into a farm where the public can come out and experience it for themselves.
I was excited to borrow a pair of scissors and sip stems. Afterward, I took my bundle to a farm employee at a cart who added a rubber band to it and directed me to the retail shop to pay $5 for the lavender. The process is easy and one you’ll appreciate.
The 
Shady tree-covered areas and tall grass surround fairways. The meticulous maintenance of the course makes it a beautiful setting. Each hole has two tee boxes made with turf pads. The basket placement ranges. Some baskets sit under trees near a water’s edge, others are hidden in cleared areas around trees, while others are located more in the open. For example, Hole 8’s basket is elevated atop a mound of sand and large tires.
During my tour, I learned that golfers could arrive during course hours and pay cash using the honors system inside a converted train railcar or pay online. Inside the rail car retail shop, you can also purchase new discs. The course was technical and challenging, especially as a new disc golfer. Be prepared to look for baskets that have been moved and don’t always match what 
She added a magnet to the bottom of the glass, set it on a base, and added pressure. Suddenly, the pint glass began to fill with beer from the bottom up. It was quite a sight.
Back at the bar, I enjoyed the Smokey Turkey Club with onion rings with a side of sauce for dipping. It was made from top-quality ingredients and tasted delicious. In fact, everything on the menu looked crave-worthy.
Sporting events played on TVs as patrons filled the dining room. The bartender told me how the family, who has owned the restaurant for several years, sandblasted and reused industrial items to decorate the space. The entire restaurant almost felt partially like a museum, from the rustic chandeliers to the hostess stand.
The store is a gem for shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces who don’t want to pay big-city prices.
The staff at 
I also appreciated the outdoor gardens with walkable paths that lead underneath arched to whimsical spaces and greenhouses. If you’re shopping for herbs, native plants, and hardscaping options, or just need to talk shop about lawn care, Gottlob is where you go.
PRO TIP: Follow the F
People drive from out of town to visit the brewery open Thursday-Saturday. The shaded patio and indoor seating areas were filled with craft beer drinkers. Inside, you can select from 6-8 beers on tap.
The brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks were available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.
The prices were affordable, and the staff consistently visited the table to check on me. Other menu options ranged from baked pasta like lasagna and manicotti to stromboli sandwiches and meatball subs. In search of lighter fare? Order a Greek or caesar salad.
My trip to Winfield was long overdue. When I told friends I was traveling to the area, everyone had good things to say about the Cowley County town. It turns out they were right. Winfield is wonderful.
On my next visit to Winfield and the surrounding area, I plan to stop at 
Have you visited Winfield or attended the Walnut Valley Festival? Leave your comments below to provide your travel suggestions for the area.
Jose Ray painted this whimsical wonder on the side of a building at Avenue A Park in 2013. I love the way her eyes are looking up at the top window. Ray’s works typically include fantastical scenes painted using bright colors. When not painting murals, Ray works as a DJ spinning tunes.
“Farmer Time” (111 W. 2nd Ave.) by Brady Scott beautifies the side of Sandhills Brewing Company. It makes a good-looking backdrop for brewery fans who want to take a photo to document their visit.
“Ad Astra” (Avenue A and Main) painted by David Loewenstein in 2012 shows a night sky full of stars. But if you look closely, the constellations resemble symbols of the Sunflower State. Which ones do you recognize?
A ferris wheel, which I think references the Kansas State Fair, is part of “Ad Astra 2” near the constellations painting. Just below it figures enjoying Hutchinson attractions like the Cosmosphere and outdoor parks.
The “Rainbow Lion” (2 N. Main) leaves a big impression on downtown passersby. Painted by Jerimiah Tolbert, the colorful cat was commissioned by Bob and Ann Bush in 2018. It’s a stretched canvas print, but it looks like a mural from afar. The artist sells mini prints, coffee mugs, and cards featuring the lion 
I’ve often taken photos of this pheasant in flight mural while visiting downtown Hutchinson. Brady Scott adorned the backside of Sandhills Brewing Company (111 W. 2nd Avenue) with the bird scene. Although referred to as the “Farmers Market Mural,” it suits the building well since the brewery’s interior is decorated with illustrations of feathered friends.
A hub of all things creative in town, the 
Hutchinson, Kansas, is a vibrant community with murals to match. A short drive from Wichita, I encourage you to visit the town and slowly drive up and down its downtown while looking at street art. Better yet? Park the car and walk through the downtown area. Not only will you see murals, but the town is decorated with public artwork of all kinds, including sculptures.
This mural round-up only scratches the surface of Hutchinson’s street art collection. To view more of them and locate their whereabouts, visit this 
