Midfest - MUSIC. ART. CULTURE.


At MidFest, we envision a vibrant music and arts scene in Manhattan, Kansas, where creativity is celebrated and supported, drawing visitors from near and far. Our annual festival is a key part of making this vision a reality, building community and boosting the local arts economy. Here’s how we contribute to the scene:

Showcasing Top Talent: We host renowned touring acts to attract large audiences.

Supporting Local Artists: By pairing touring acts with local bands, we help them reach new fans and enhance their market presence.

Fostering Young Talent: We create opportunities for youth bands to gain valuable performance experience.

Collaborating with Local Businesses: We work closely with local businesses to strengthen community ties.


MidFest is a multi-day, multi-venue, and multi-genre festival offering both free and paid events. Our goal is to make music accessible to everyone while also recognizing the value of the arts. Several of our events are all-ages, providing a safe and welcoming environment for Manhattan’s youth to enjoy live music.


Our Journey: What started in the summer of 2016 as a backyard gathering among friends, with donated equipment and a lineup of passionate bands, has grown into a thriving festival. Back then, 300 people came out to support our grassroots effort. Now, after almost a decade, MidFest continues with that same DIY spirit!