Can I let you in on a little (not-so) secret? Traveling is expensive… However, if you live in the beautiful melting pot of the Sunflower State, you have the opportunity to see the world (so to speak) without ever crossing state lines. How do you do this? Just visit one of these towns or festivals for a cultural experience unlike any other:
1. Lindsborg
Välkommen till Lindsborg; a charming little town that was settled by Swedish immigrants during the 1800s. Enjoy a taste of Sweden every day by visiting Lindsborg and their unique shops, restaurants, Dala horses and so much more.
2. Fiesta Mexicana (Topeka)
For the last 80-some years, Topeka's Our Lady of Guadalupe parish has sponsored their benefit fiesta, which brings several Mexican traditions to the Topeka area through music, vendors and the crowning of the Fiesta Mexicana Royalty. (This year's event runs July 12-16th.)
3. Wilson
Wilson is proud to be the Czech Capital of Kansas. Celebrate their rich heritage at the annual After Harvest Festival, which purpose is to "promote and honor the Czech heritage, encourage community and family involvement and to help create lasting memories for young and old." (This year's festival takes place July 28-30th.)
4. Herzogfest (Victoria)
Herzogfest, which motto is an appropriate "It's too much fun," pays homage to the pioneer Volga Germans through live concerts, authentic cuisine and fun for the little tykes. (This year's event takes place August 5th & 6th.)
5. Oktoberfest (Hays)
They don't call Ellis County the "German Capital of Kansas" for nothing. Jut down the road from Victoria is Hays and their infamous Oktoberfest celebration, complete with beer, bierocks, and lots of polka music. (The 2016 date is TBA.)
6. Filipino-American Association of Greater Wichita
No matter the time of year, the Filipino-American Association of Greater Wichita is celebrating their heritage by hosting Barrio Festivals, New Year's parties and their famous June Ball. Visit their Facebook
page for a full list of events.
7. Cinco de Mayo (Hutchinson)
Scheduled to take place May 7th, this fiesta (and its carnival, games and vendors) is one that you'd hate to miss.
8. Yoder
Relax, unplug and enjoy the simplified life in this quaint and quiet Amish community.
9. Washunga Days (Council Grove)
See, hear, shop and taste Washunga Days, which "celebrates the culture – both past and present – of Council Grove, showcasing the city and all of its amenities." See you there June 17-19th.
10. Tulip Festival (Wamego)
Welcome to Holland... err, Wamego... which will celebrate springtime with lovely tulips and more on April 16th and 17th.
11. Asian Festival (Wichita)
I don't know what these desserts are called, but I want to try every single one of them at the next Asian Festival on October 29th.
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