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Annual Events
Festivals and events for all ages.
The Original Adventure
Adventures to be had exploring Dodge City’s past as the Queen of the Cowtowns.
Rodeo & Racing
Rodeo and racing are in our blood.
Fun & Excitement
Summer fun at the water park, sports, concerts, comedy acts, and more.
Everyday Inspiration
Enjoy live theater and dive into Dodge City’s growing art scene.
Stack the Deck
Experience the exciting nightlife and exotic flavors Dodge City has to offer.
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A Reason to Celebrate
Create memories during these fun and exciting annual celebrations.
Shop Dodge City
Explore the unique shopping and products you can only find in Dodge City.
Get Outdoors
Hunt, fish, hike, camp, or cycle. Soak up some rays with these outdoor activities.
Seasonal Experiences
No matter the season it’s always a good time to visit Dodge City
More to Explore
There’s a lot to see and do in Dodge City.
Accommodations
Find the perfect place to hang your hat.
The name Dodge City brings to mind images of the great lawmen and scoundrels of the west, saloons and shootouts, and wide-open prairies. Fun and adventure await around every corner whether it’s sipping sarsaparilla at the Long Branch Saloon, experiencing the annual Longhorn Cattle Drive, or zipping down a waterslide at the Long Branch Lagoon Water Park, the days are long on fun in Dodge City.
The legends of the old west come alive in Dodge City, Kansas. Relive the wild west with live reenactments of the shootouts that earned the city
the nickname “Wickedest Little City in the West.”
Discover the best the new west has to offer with art galleries, breweries, shopping, and more.
Call or stop in at the Dodge City Visitor Information Center located at 400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd., for assistance with maps, directions, meeting planning, and more.
We’ll see you soon, Megan
Welsh, Director of the Dodge City Convention & Visitors Bureau
There is always something happening in Dodge City. Bull riding, live theater, gunfights, and arena football. Dodge City has something for everyone. For more information go to visitdodgecity.org.
JANUARY
Tournament of Champions
United Wireless Arena
SPIAA Basketball Tournament
United Wireless Arena
FEBRUARY
Southwest Kansas Winter Expo
Western State Bank Expo Center
Shrine Circus
Civic Center
MARCH
KSHSAA Basketball Tournament
United Wireless Arena
3i SHOW
Western State Bank Expo Center
APRIL
Dodge City Raceway Park Season Opens
Dodge City Raceway Park
Softball/Baseball Tournament
Season Opens
Legends/Cavalier Fields
High School Rodeo
Dodge City Roundup Rodeo Grounds
MAY
National Travel and Tourism Week
Cinco de Mayo Events
National Train Day
Historic Trolley Tours Begin
Visitor Information Center
Boot Hill Museum Summer
Season Opens
Boot Hill Museum
JUNE
Boot Hill Museum Summer Events
Boot Hill Museum
Historic Trolley Tours
Visitor Information Center
Farmers Market Opens
Village Square Mall
Main Street Dodge City Festival
Historic Downtown District
Founder’s Weekend
Dodge City A’s Season Opens
Cavalier Field
JULY
Boot Hill Museum Summer Events
Boot Hill Museum
Historic Trolley Tours
Visitor Information Center
Old Fashioned Fourth of July
Ford County Fair
Ford County Fairgrounds
National Day of the Cowboy
Whisker Roundup Mustache Contest
Dodge City Days
AUGUST
Dodge City Days
Cattle Drive
PRCA Roundup Rodeo
Dodge City Roundup Rodeo Grounds
Boot Hill Museum Summer Events
Boot Hill Museum
Historic Trolley Tours
Visitor Information Center
SEPTEMBER
Kansas Pro Rodeo Association Finals
Dodge City Roundup Rodeo Grounds
Dodge City International Festival
Historic Downtown District
OCTOBER
Historic Cemetery Tours
Maple Grove Cemetery
Trick or Treat Downtown
Historic Downtown District
Young Guns Youth Rodeo Season Opens
Western State Bank Expo Center
KSHSAA Volleyball Tournament
United Wireless Arena
NOVEMBER
Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame Induction
Boot Hill Museum
Ice Skating at United Wireless Arena
United Wireless Arena
Pheasant Season Contest Opens
Ford County
Veterans Day Events
Fort Dodge Kansas Soldiers Home
Parade of Lights & Chili Cook-off
Downtown & Boot Hill Museum
DECEMBER
Ice Skating at United Wireless Arena
United Wireless Arena
Holiday Lights Tours
Visitor Information Center
Christmas In Dodge City
Dodge City
THE SPIRIT OF THE WEST
Dodge City is dedicated to keeping alive the pioneer spirit that saw our ancestors through fires, blizzards, droughts, and floods. From the Boot Hill Museum, which holds more than 60,000 artifacts of western heritage and culture, to the Mueller-Schmidt House Museum, Dodge City not only embraces our place in wild west history, we celebrate it.
Your first stop on your adventure should be the Dodge City Visitor Information Center (400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd.). Here you will find knowledgeable and friendly staff who can help you plan your stay and get you started on your journey. You’ll find free parking and easy access to many of the Historic Downtown District’s most enticing attractions.
Pick up a free brochure and take the self-guided Walking Tour through the streets of Dodge City. On your trek, you’ll uncover Trail of Fame medallions of local luminaries, film and television stars, and the heroes and scoundrels who walked or prowled our city’s streets. Custom, handcrafted Pole Art Banners adorn multiple light poles in the downtown district, each telling a story.
TROLLEY TOURS
Climb aboard the Historic Trolley for a tour that will transport you back in time. Learn about the city’s rough and rowdy history from the first settlers through the modern-day agriculture industries that fuel the economy of modern Dodge City. Tours are offered from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
WILD WEST FUN
In the summer catch the Boot Hill Museum Variety Show, where you will be treated to performances from Miss Kitty, can-can dancers, and singing bartenders, all while enjoying a savory country-style dinner.
Time your visit just right, and you’ll be in town for Dodge City Days. This world-class community festival to honor and celebrate our western heritage has been running for more than 70 years. The second-largest community festival in the state of Kansas draws approximately one-hundred thousand visitors to Dodge City every year.
Get a taste of the west when more than one hundred longhorn cattle are driven down Wyatt Earp Blvd. during the annual Longhorn Cattle Drive.
RODEO IS IN OUR BLOOD
Rodeo is a long-standing tradition in Dodge City. The Dodge City Roundup Rodeo has been setting the bar for rodeo excitement since 1977. The annual PRCA award-winning rodeo draws nearly 800 of the best contestants in rodeo. Additionally, enjoy a night of Xtreme Bulls when 50 bull riders ride some of the orneriest bucking bulls around.
In addition to all the rodeo action at the Roundup Arena, the Western State Bank Expo Center hosts many indoor rodeo events throughout the year. Enjoy everything from roping competitions and youth rodeos to barrel racing and pole bending events.
MOTORSPORTS LEGACY
Dodge City Raceway Park is a state-of-theart racing facility located right in the heart of western Kansas. This motorsports venue has a seating capacity of nearly 3,500 and, during racing season (April through October), hosts a variety of motorsports entertainment events in a wide range of classes. Everything from sprint cars, flat-track motorcycles, and stock cars to midget class, antique racers, and more.
LAUGHS, THRILLS, AND MORE
In addition to the list of impressive musical acts, Dodge City draws a wide variety of other top-tier entertainers. Previous performances include the comedy stylings of industry luminaries like Jeff Dunham and Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias. Incredible ice skating displays by the touring figure skating show Stars on Ice and the magical adventures of Fairytales on Ice. The Harlem Globetrotters’ unique blend of jawdropping basketball entertainment and the fabulous performances during the annual Shrine Circus have always delighted. All in addition to other fun and exciting entertainment events and performances.
STRIKE UP THE BAND
Musicians and live performers love to play in Dodge City. Everything from big-name acts, breakout country music stars and staples of classic rock to international and Latin music sensations can be found on stage year-round at United Wireless Arena.
The musical stylings of local and regional talents are on display at the frequent concerts and live music nights at venues like Boot Hill Distillery and Central Station Bar & Grill.
The Dodge City Cowboy Band, formed in 1879, making it the longest-running municipal band west of the Mississippi, performs free concerts in Wright Park throughout the summer.
The Dodge City Community Concert Association is dedicated to bringing the finest performers to the stage in Dodge City. Enjoy high-quality performances from a wide range of entertainers from piano duos and brass quintets to folk trios and vocal performers all at the Dodge City Civic Center.
WET AND WILD FUN IN THE SUN
The Long Branch Lagoon, a 27,000 plus square foot water park, offers westernthemed fun and aquatic adventures for the whole family. The park boasts multiple water slides, a children’s play area, interactive water features, a climbing wall, and a 50-meter competition pool. You can relax in the 720-foot lazy river, or ride the rapids in the wave pool.
Open seven days a week during the summer with a night swim on select nights, a concession stand, and the option to bring your own cooler. The park routinely hosts special events including, concerts, movie nights, and meet and greets.
SPORTS
Dodge City offers multiple sports venue and hosts several large sporting tournaments from the Tournament of Champions (TOC), the longest running invitational high school basketball tournament west of the Mississippi, to the KSHSAA State Volleyball Championship
Enjoy the thrill and excitement of arena football during a Southwest Kansas Storm game at the United Wireless Arena. In June and July, catch a Dodge City A’s, a Kansas Collegiate League Baseball team, game at Cavalier Field
While in town enjoy a round of golf at the Mariah Hills Golf Course, one of GolfDay’s Top Ten Public Courses in the state of Kansas.
ALL THE WORLDS A STAGE
The Depot Theater is one of the largest community theaters in the state of Kansas. Founded in 1984, it has been entertaining locals and visitors alike from its main stage in the Historic Santa Fe Depot. The 160 seat theater, renovated in 2004, showcases musicals, dramas, and farces. Accommodations can be made for guests with special dietary considerations.
Theater buffs may also enjoy the annual productions presented by the Dodge City High School Drama Club
HAND, HEAD, AND HEART
Final Fridays in Dodge City invite everyone to enjoy the inspiring artwork from local and guest artists on display throughout our Historic Downtown District. Two art galleries, the Carnegie Center for the Arts and the 2nd Avenue Art Guild, host exhibitions for artists from all over the region.
Visitors will also be treated to refreshments, live entertainment, sales, public art pieces including, bronze sculptures and murals, and more during these monthly art walks.
NIGHTLIFE
Whether looking for a relaxing evening sipping cocktails or a night of gambling and excitement we’ve got you covered. Start the night at the Boot Hill Casino and Resort which features hundreds of slot machines, 18 table games, a full service bar, sports betting at the DraftKings Sportsbook, and the Firesides restaurant.
Stop by Dodge City Brewing to experience hand-crafted beer brewed right here in Dodge City and satisfy your hunger with brick-oven pizza on hand-stretched dough.
Take a tour of the Boot Hill Distillery and enjoy handmade cocktails featuring their soilto-sip spirits in their tasting room.
A REASON TO CELEBRATE
In Dodge City we are always looking for a reason to celebrate. In May, we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with fun activities for travelers and residents alike. Join the fun as we honor our frontline service personnel and support our local businesses.
The Main Street Dodge City Festival, held annually on the first Saturday in June, showcases the best of our Historic Downtown District, local businesses, and community. June is when we celebrate Founder’s Weekend with a community concert and events hosted by Boot Hill Museum and the Ford County Historical Society.
During Dodge City’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July, partake in the fun holiday activities at
the Boot Hill Museum and enjoy the largest fireworks display in western Kansas. Celebrate National Day of the Cowboy with the Annual Whisker Roundup Mustache Competition where competitors lock horns to see who has the best mustache in the west and be crowned Dodge City’s Mr. Mustache.
The Dodge City Days Festival is a ten-day celebration of Dodge City’s western heritage. The festival begins on the last weekend in July with annual events that include the Boot Hill Bull Fry Bash, Western Parade, Concert Series at Central Station Bar & Grill, Longhorn Cattle Drive, McDonald’s Kidfest, and the PRCA Roundup Rodeo.
Every September, the Dodge City International Festival celebrates the diversity and culture of our community. This festival features live music and performances showcasing and celebrating our distinct cultures.
INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS
Dodge City also features a wide array of ethnic cuisine from all around the world. Enjoy authentic Thai food from the Thai Garden, get a taste of Italy at the Bella Italia Ristorante or grab some sushi from Osaki Steak & Sushi House
Mexican cuisine is well represented, with flavors from multiple regions available. With dozens of sit-down restaurants and a mess of food trucks, you will have no problem finding a dish that suits your palette.
GOOD GRUB, LOCALLY SOURCED
Dodge City is cattle country, and you know, with two beef packing plants in our backyard the locally-sourced beef is going to be second to none.
Available at many of our local steakhouses and pubs including Don Taco Cowtown, Cowboy Capital Saloon & Grill, Firesides, I Don’t Care Family Restaurant & Sports Bar, Kate’s, Prime on the Nine, and more.
SWEETS & TREATS
After you’ve finished dinner, grab a sweet treat like some rolled ice cream from Drink It Milk Tea House or enjoy the flan napolitano at El Rodeo Bar & Grill. The Paleteria Snow Station offers a large variety of smoothies and Mexican antojitos to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Want to start your day with the perfect donut? Wake up early and stop by Daylight or Crispy Donuts
SHOP DODGE CITY
In the Historic Downtown District, you will have a unique shopping experience. Slip into one of the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect keepsake from your visit. Hunt for the perfect find at Boot Hill Antiques and the New Creations Gift Boutique or browse the newest arrivals at the Vintage Belle Boutique. Pick up a branded souvenir at the Boot Hill Museum or Dodge City merch at V&M Stitch, or the Visitor Information Center. Need a new bit of western wear? Long’s, Inc. in the Central Oaks Plaza has you covered. Shop, dine and catch a movie at the Village Square Mall on the north side of Dodge City.
SLAKE YOUR THIRST
A variety of coffee and specialty drink vendors are available to quench your thirst. Experience world-class coffee and a handcrafted community at Red Beard Coffee in the Historic Downtown District. Or indulge in a calming specialty tea from NobiliTea. Like boba? Drink It Milk Tea House has you covered with dozens of flavors and varieties.
HUNT & FISH THE WEST
In Dodge City, you’ll find a variety of hunting opportunities that will suit most outdoor enthusiasts. The Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program provides hunters with ample acreage to pursue their favorite game with no additional charge.
Annually, Dodge City hosts the Bounty Bird pheasant hunting contest and joins seven other counties in the Rooster Roundup pheasant hunting contests. Each event features banded birds that hunters register for the opportunity to win prizes. Bounty Bird and Rooster Roundup begin the second Saturday in November and run through January.
Fishing is available all year round at Lake Charles on the Dodge City Community College campus and the Mariah Hills Golf Course Pond. Continue your fishing adventure at Ford County Lake, located just northeast of Dodge City. This 43-acre lake is well stocked and offers several campsites for travelers who want to extend their stay.
SOAK UP THAT PRAIRIE SUN
If outdoor recreation is what you are looking for, check out our 10-foot wide, 4.25-mile, paved cycling and walking trail open year-round. The Ford County Lake Trail is an 11-mile technical hiking and cycling trail through trees, brush, and gypsum rock formation along the lakeshore.
Dodge City is a member of the Gravel Kansas, an initiative developing gravel routes across Kansas that are accessible to all levels of cycling enthusiasts. There are eight scenic routes in Southwest Kansas, ranging from 19 to 53 miles in length. Visit us and ride the State that Made Gravel Famous©.
HorseThief Reservoir
, located on 1600 acres of gorgeous Kansas prairie, this 450-acre reservoir will delight outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir offers a primitive camping area and 42 sites with water and electricity. At HorseThief, you can enjoy fun outdoor activities like boating, skiing, swimming, and camping.
SPRING
The annual 3i SHOW is a North American AgriBusiness Tradition that draws vendors and visitors from all over the United States. Enjoy three days of demonstrations, events, and giveaways.
SUMMER
Find local produce and handmade goods at the Dodge City Farmer’s Market at the Village Square Mall every Saturday morning beginning on the first Saturday in June.
FALL
As the leaves and weather start to change Dodge City embraces the spirit of fall. On the weekends enjoy family fun and adventure at the Autumn Acres and Hickory Hollow pumpkin patches.
Trick-or-Treat Downtown is an annual event in the Historic Downtown District that features a scarecrow contest, hamburger feed, and of course, mountains of candy.
Climb aboard the Historic Trolley for the Ford County Historical Societies Historic Cemetery Tours. Ride to the Maple Grove Cemetery and enjoy a 45-minute walking tour of the historic cemetery sites of Dodge City’s founding fathers.
WINTER
Christmas in Dodge City is always a special time. Things kick off with the Annual Parade of Lights and Chili Cook Off.
The CVB hosts Holiday Lights Tours aboard the Historic Trolley throughout December. Red Beard Coffee presents their Christmas Extravaganza featuring food, fun, Santa, and carriage rides and the Ford County Historical Society hosts its annual Christmas Tea at the Mueller-Schmidt House Museum. All this in addition to other special events and sales can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season.
MORE TO EXPLORE
There is so much to see and do in Dodge City that you may have to add an extra day to your trip. Climb aboard the Historic Trolley Tour at the Visitor Information Center for a deep dive into our city’s history, including Historic Fort Dodge, the Sentinel on the Santa Fe Trail.
The Boot Hill Distillery, in the former Dodge City Municipal Building, offers comprehensive tours that detail not only the processes and science behind the creation of their spirits but also a thorough history of the building and tasting of their spirits.
Our self-guided Walking Tour lets you explore the history of Dodge City. More than a dozen Historic Information Storyboards will be found along the route, detailing everything from the founding of Dodge City through the modern cattle industry.
The Gunfighters Wax Museum, located just west of the Boot Hill Museum, displays life-sized wax figures of some of the West’s most famous outlaws and heroes, as well as some of the iconic characters from the television show Gunsmoke. Admission also includes entrance to the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame.
Set out on the Gunsmoke Trail, which will take you on an adventure through iconic locations featured in the classic Western, including Dodge City, Hays, Abilene, and Wichita.
The Liberty Garden in Wright Park was designed as a place of solitude, honor and remembrance of the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001.
The Santa Fe Trail served as a pioneer highway from 1821 to 1872, and just nine miles west of Dodge City, you can see the most clearly defined rut trails, still visible after more than 200 years.
We know you’ll enjoy your adventure in Dodge City. No matter what time of year you come there is always fun to be had!
