Hey everyone! Hope you’re staying warm because it is officially freezing outside now!
Even with the cold, we are still keeping all our Christmas traditions rolling. We made our annual trip out to Prairie Pines to look at the trees, took pictures with Santa, and the girls had the best time riding the little train out there (family pics below!).
This week’s email is packed with some really exciting news, including a huge new entertainment district planned for northeast Wichita, plus all the best events happening around town and a look at my latest listings.
Let’s get into it!
– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)
In Today's Weekend Report:
Ignite at K-96
Weekend Events To Check Out
Pictures From Prairie Pines
Check Out My New Listings!
Ignite at K-96!
🎬 What is Ignite at K-96
Ignite at K-96 is the third phase of a major entertainment-and-sports district under development in northeast Wichita, located at the southeast corner of K-96 and Greenwich Road. It builds on previous growth in the area under the city’s STAR Bond program.
The project envisions a dynamic mixed-use destination combining sports, entertainment, hospitality, and recreation — designed to attract families, visitors, and locals alike.
🎯 What’s Planned
The scope of Ignite at K-96 is ambitious, including:
A multisport athletic complex with a planned facility for Wichita State University: 12 outdoor tennis courts and a 40,000-square-foot indoor climate-controlled center capable of hosting major tournaments.
Recreational and entertainment venues such as a surf park, indoor “interactive baseball” and golf facility, go-kart racing, and other family-friendly attractions.
A resort hotel with dining and amenities — meant to support tourism, out-of-town guests, and attendees of events or tournaments.
Additional sports and leisure offerings: synthetic ice skating, mini-golf, and other recreational amenities aimed at making the district a year-round destination.
According to planning documents, the total project investment is estimated near $191.7 million.
✅ Why It Matters for Wichita
Boost to the local economy: The district is designed to draw visitors from across the region and beyond — creating jobs, increasing tourism, and supporting local businesses.
Expanded recreation and sports opportunities: Residents get access to high-quality sports facilities and entertainment venues — useful for families, students, and athletic communities.
Long-term growth & development: Ignite at K-96 further establishes northeast Wichita as a hub for leisure, hospitality, and mixed-use activity, complementing ongoing infrastructure improvements in the region.
Regional visibility and attraction: With features like a surf park and NCAA-grade tennis facility, Wichita may draw tournaments, visitors, or sports-tourism, raising the city’s profile.
🛠️ Status & What’s Next
The proposal represents a new phase within the existing STAR Bond district, not a boundary expansion. The plan was recently submitted for city approval and will be reviewed by the Wichita City Council.
If all goes as planned, the projected completion date is 2027.
Because of its scale, the project will likely come in phases — from sports complexes to hospitality to entertainment venues — meaning some features may open earlier than others.
With so much growth and excitement on the horizon, Ignite at 96 is shaping up to be a major win for northeast Wichita. From new jobs to fresh dining, shopping, and entertainment options, this development brings a wave of opportunity and energy to the community. Stay tuned—there’s plenty more to look forward to as plans move ahead!
WHAT'S HAPPENIN’ THIS WEEKEND?
🖼️ “FUNSIZE” – RSG Group Exhibition
Explore a vibrant group exhibition showcasing small-scale works from regional artists.
📍 Location: Reuben Saunders Gallery
📆 Date & Time: December 5, 2025 • 5:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info
🎅 A Country Christmas – Pancakes with Santa
Kick off the holiday season with a magical morning of pancakes, Santa photos, and festive fun.
📍 Location: Fulton Valley Farms
📆 Date & Time: December 5, 2025 • 8:15 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $17 (ages 4+); Ages 3 & under free • Reservations required
🔗 More info
🎄 A Country Christmas – Supper with Santa
Enjoy a cozy holiday evening with Santa, a hearty meal, and family-friendly Christmas activities.
📍 Location: Fulton Valley Farms
📆 Date & Time: December 5, 2025 • 5:30–9:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $30 adults (12+), $20 kids (4–11), Ages 3 & under free • Reservations required
🔗 More info
🎤 Darci Lynne: Up Close and Personal Christmas Tour
Catch the beloved ventriloquist for a festive evening of music, laughs, and holiday cheer.
📍 Location: Crown Uptown Theatre
📆 Date & Time: December 5, 2025 • 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $57
🔗 More info
🎭 MTWichita Holiday Extravaganza
Experience a dazzling holiday revue filled with music, dance, and Broadway-style magic all weekend long.
📍 Location: Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Date & Time: December 5–7, 2025 • Multiple showtimes
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $37
🔗 More info
🏘️ Victorian Christmas
Step back in time as Old Cowtown transforms into a festive 1880s holiday village filled with lights, carolers, and traditions.
📍 Location: Old Cowtown Museum
📆 Date & Time: December 5–6, 2025 • 6:00–9:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $15 per person • $5 for members
🔗 More info
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the season with lights, music, crafts, and cozy winter fun in the heart of downtown.
📍 Location: Naftzger Park
📆 Date & Time: December 5, 2025 • 6:00–8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info
🩰 Metropolitan Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”
A timeless holiday classic featuring enchanting choreography and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.
📍 Location: Century II Concert Hall
📆 Date & Time: December 6–7, 2025 • 7:00–9:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Required
🔗 More info
🎅 Breakfast with Santa at Old Cowtown Museum
Enjoy breakfast, crafts, and Santa visits in a charming historic setting.
📍 Location: Old Cowtown Museum
📆 Date & Time: December 6, 2025 • 9:00–11:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $20 non-members • $15 members
🔗 More info
🌾 Breakfast with Santa on the Farm
Meet Santa, enjoy breakfast, and explore festive farm fun for the whole family.
📍 Location: Eberly Farm
📆 Date & Time: December 6, 2025 • 9:30 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $5 each • Under age 1 free • Group: $20 • Biscuits & Gravy: $8
🔗 More info
🎄 Breakfast with Santa!
A festive morning with Santa featuring breakfast and optional gameplay.
📍 Location: Dave & Buster’s
📆 Date & Time: December 6, 2025 • 9:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $36.38 (Breakfast & Play) • $29.76 (Breakfast Only)
🔗 More info
🍬 Gingerbread Village
Build memories at this sweet annual tradition featuring gingerbread houses, activities, and holiday displays.
📍 Location: Exploration Place
📆 Date & Time: December 6–7, 2025 • 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $12 adults • $10 kids/seniors • $8 members • Ages 2 & under free
🔗 More info
🛍️ Holiday Stroll at Bradley Fair
Enjoy a cozy afternoon of shopping, holiday treats, and a charming train ride experience.
📍 Location: Bradley Fair
📆 Date & Time: December 7, 2025 • 2:00–4:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Bradley Fair Express: $5
🔗 More info
ANNUAL TRIP TO PRAIRIE PINES!
Check Out My New Listings!
(Click Each One To See The Full Listing)
LET’S CONNECT!
If you—or someone you know—is thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate around Wichita, I’d love to help! And even if you’re just tackling a home project and need a solid contractor recommendation, I’ve got plenty to share. The easiest way to reach me is by call or text at 316-259-1995. Or if it’s easier, you can grab a time on my calendar and I’ll follow up with you!
That’s all for this week! I hope you have an awesome weekend!
-Caleb Claussen
P.S. If you or a friend is looking to buy, sell, or invest around the Wichita market, I’d love to be your real estate resource of choice! Reach out anytime!
