Sunflower Festival Sets 2026 Dates in Downtown Colby

The Sunflower Festival is officially coming back to downtown Colby in 2026, and organizers are once again expanding it into a two-day celebration. The 2026 Sunflower Festival will take place Friday, August 21, and Saturday, August 22, landing on the fourth weekend of August as the event has done since 2018.

What started as a way to bring more people into Colby and revive a true community gathering in the downtown area has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated summer events. Since moving downtown in 2018, the Sunflower Festival has continued to add new activities while keeping the hometown feel that makes it special.

Last year marked the first time the festival expanded from a one-day event to two days, and the response from the community was overwhelmingly positive. Because of that success, the Sunflower Festival Committee, housed under the Colby/Thomas County Chamber, made the decision to bring the two-day format back for 2026.

Festival organizers credit the event’s success to the many volunteers, community members, and local groups who step up each year to help make it happen. Several of the original founding members remain actively involved on the committee, including Dana Broeckelman, Brette Hankin, and Kristina Hemel. Other committee members include Lizzie Lewis, Carson McLaughlin, Brenda Mazanec, Justin Burris, and Ashly Lindberg.

While a full schedule has not yet been released, many fan-favorite attractions are expected to return in 2026. Those include the popular car show, Booths on the Bricks, kids activities, and plenty more for families and visitors to enjoy. The committee also hinted that something from earlier festivals—missing in recent years—may be making a comeback, adding a little extra excitement for longtime Sunflower Festival fans.

NWKS Radio is proud to be part of the Sunflower Festival each year, helping with music, marketing, and on-the-ground coverage throughout the weekend. As more details are announced, NWKS Radio will continue to share updates, schedules, and highlights leading up to the August 2026 event.

Mark your calendars now for August 21–22, 2026, and get ready for another summer weekend filled with family, community, and downtown Colby fun. 🌻