Located in southeastern Kansas, about 200 miles southwest of Kansas City and 160 miles north of Oklahoma City, the sprawling river city of Wichita is the largest municipality in Kansas, with a population of nearly 400,000 (650,000 meter) . In the socially conservative heart of America, the gay population is relatively small and also less noticeable than in many other parts of the country, but visitors are sometimes surprised that Wichita has a growing gay scene; According to the latest census figures, about 900 same-sex couples live in Wichita.
Wichita Gay Pride takes place in late September, the culmination of about 10 days of events. The Wichita Pride dates this year are September 24-25, 2016.
Wichita Gay Pride related events typically take place for about 10 days leading up to the big weekend, and in the past have included a night of bowling, a Pride picnic, a skate party, Wigstock at Riverside Hair Station, a tour of the Party Bus bar and more.
Then, on Saturday, September 24, there is a Community Pride Picnic at OJ Watson Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a Block Party at the festival’s main venue, the Mid-America Indian Center (650 N. Seneca St.), from 5:30 to 9:30, and then a Drag Pride Show that night, starting at 10:30 pm, at the Boomerang Club.
Then, on Sunday, September 25, morning worship services at the Indian Center, a Kansas Equality Rally at noon at the Old County House, and the Wichita Gay Pride Parade (from Old County Court to the Indian Center) from 1 to 1:30 in the afternoon. Taking place throughout the afternoon, from noon to 6 p.m., the Wichita Pride Festival is held at the Indian Center and includes concerts and other entertainment.
Gay Wichita Resources
Although there are not many resources on the gay scene in Wichita, the city has a useful gay newspaper, Liberty Press, which has lots of information on local organizations, bars, and resources. Also helpful, in terms of travel tips and advice about the region, is the website of the Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau.