March 23, 2026 | Stories
Since opening in September 2025, the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater at Exploration Place (EP) has quickly become a destination for Wichitans and visitors from across the country, showing what’s possible when philanthropy invests in connection, access and shared civic life.
Sparked by an investment from the Wichita Foundation (WF) and developed in partnership with EP, the amphitheater serves as a vibrant riverfront hub where Wichitans of all ages gather for free movies, live music, wellness activities and large public events designed to be accessible and inclusive.
RiverFlix, the Friday night outdoor movie series, has become a signature program, averaging 600 attendees per screening and drawing as many as 1,200 guests on peak nights. Its impact extends beyond attendance.
“A mom walked up to our staff, holding her phone with a question typed out to ask if RiverFlix would have closed captioning,” said Exploration Place Vice President of Advancement Laura Roddy. “After telling her yes, she shared that her daughter was also deaf and they usually can’t attend public movies. She was so glad to be able to enjoy the evening together.”
Throughout the year, the amphitheater hosts Riverside Yoga, which draws more than 1,000 participants; Shop & Grub festivals, which average 2,000 attendees; Parkrun 5Ks, which welcome more than 10,000 runners in the first year; and free concerts and events, including the Drone Light Festival.
“The addition of the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater has been significant for the community,” Roddy said. “It is truly becoming a place where Wichita gathers.”
With expanded programming planned for 2026, the amphitheater continues to grow as a lasting community asset.
What’s happening at the Wichita Foundation Amphitheater this summer:
