Things to Do Around Northwest Kansas: May 19-25

It’s another busy week across the NWKS Radio listening area as communities gear up for Memorial Day weekend, golf tournaments, live music, cruise nights, family fun, and one of the biggest small-town celebrations of the year — Cruise, Shoes & BBQs in Grainfield.

Whether you’re looking for something educational, family-friendly, competitive, or just plain fun, there’s something happening nearly every day across northwest Kansas.

Midweek Events Get Things Rolling

The week begins with a helpful opportunity for young people in Colby on Wednesday as the Thomas County Health Department and Thomas County Extension host a Babysitting Class for students in 6th grade and older. The all-day class focuses on childcare basics and safety training.

Thursday night offers a little bit of everything in Colby. Residents can enjoy a friendly Game Night at the Colby Housing Authority, join a discussion at the Pioneer Memorial Library about the bestselling novel “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow,” or hear an important public discussion at the Lon Frahm Ag Center concerning the proposed constitutional amendment involving Kansas Supreme Court justice selection.

Music lovers can also head out Thursday night for Cooper Barn Jams at the historic Cooper Barn, where live music and community fun continue through the evening.

Golf Tournaments Take Center Stage

Friday and Saturday are packed with golf action across the region.

The annual Adams Bank & Trust Chamber Golf Classic tees off Friday morning at Meadow Lake Golf Course in Colby. Teams from around the area will hit the course for a day of competition, networking, and fun.

Then on Saturday, the Foundation of Hope Golf Tournament takes over Sugar Hills Golf Club in Goodland with a Hawaiian-themed four-person scramble benefiting local families battling cancer in northwest Kansas. Organizers encourage golfers to break out the loud shirts and island vibes while supporting a meaningful cause.

Cruise Night and Cruise, Shoes & BBQs Headline the Weekend

Classic cars and community fun are front and center this weekend.

Friday night in Oberlin features Grow Decatur County Foundation’s Cruise Night with cruising beginning at 5 p.m. and a pork burger tailgate fundraiser downtown.

Then all eyes turn to Grainfield for Cruise, Shoes & BBQs on Saturday and Sunday. The annual celebration has grown into one of the region’s signature Memorial Day weekend events featuring live music, food vendors, a car show, burger battle, family activities, mechanical bull rides, and plenty of small-town fun. Organizers are expecting another strong turnout as visitors from across Kansas and surrounding states roll into Grainfield for the festivities.

Family Fun, Farmers Markets, and Community Events

Saturday morning brings the Thomas County Farmers Market back to Fike Park in Colby with fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.

Families in Goodland can also participate in the annual Let Your Light Shine Family Walk and 5K supporting local causes, while younger athletes can sharpen their skills at the Goodland 5th and 6th Grade Volleyball Camp.

Sunday afternoon wraps up the weekend with a Community Dance at the Senior Progress Center in Colby featuring live music by Craig Stevens.

Memorial Day Services Across the Area

Communities throughout northwest Kansas will pause Monday to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Memorial Day services are planned in Brewster, Goodland, and Kanorado with ceremonies hosted by local VFW posts and auxiliaries. Goodland will also host an America 250 Memorial Day Celebration and Unknown Veterans Memorial Rededication following the morning service at the cemetery.

As many families gather for the holiday weekend, communities across the area are encouraging residents to take time to remember the meaning behind Memorial Day while also safely enjoying the many local events happening throughout the region.

For complete event details and to see even more happenings around the NWKS Radio listening area, visit NWKS Radio Area Events Calendar.