Now that it’s officially Christmas season, we’ve got our front porch all lit up and picked up a few new decorations! My girls would love it if I bought the 3 life-size Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto that dance and sing, but I think they’re even more fun to watch in the store (they’re $200 each!). We also celebrated my wife’s birthday with dinner at George’s last night. Our server said it best: it’s true French cuisine, but with American portions. If you haven’t been, it’s one of our favorites!

In other news, the Loony Bin comedy club is back in west Wichita, I’ve got a full lineup of weekend events from Magic of Motown to Vintage Market Days, and this week’s video breaks down how Wichita went from rejecting a school bond to passing a $615 million one... and why the biggest factor probably isn’t what you’d guess.

Let’s get into it!

– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)

If you've been wondering what happened to Wichita's comedy scene, the Loony Bin made its return this past July! After being closed for a couple of years, the longtime comedy club reopened at a new west Wichita location, giving us a place to catch nationally recognized comedians, up-and-coming talent, and plenty of laughs once again.

The Loony Bin first opened its doors in 1999 near 21st and Woodlawn, where it became a longtime Wichita entertainment staple. In 2014, it moved downtown to 215 N. St. Francis, continuing to bring big-name comedians and rising talent to the city. After nearly 25 years in Wichita, the club closed in July 2023 when longtime owner Larry Marks retired, leaving us without a dedicated comedy club for a while.

Thankfully, that wasn't the end of the story! Mason Thatcher, who also owns the Loony Bin in Tulsa, brought the club back under new ownership at its new west Wichita location at 8406 W. Central, in the former Villa Luna space.

The new location has some upgrades, too! It features a full kitchen serving burgers, wraps, quesadillas, appetizers and desserts, along with a full bar. The venue seats around 250 people and hosts a rotating lineup of nationally known comedians, rising talent, and local performers, with shows typically Wednesday through Sunday.

There are plenty of upcoming shows to put on your calendar! John Caparulo takes the stage November 13–14, followed by Andrew Conn on November 15 and Jason Salmon November 20–21. December brings Shelly Belly December 3–5, with more shows lined up into 2027.

Whether you're looking for a date night, a night out with friends, or just an excuse to get out of the house and laugh until your stomach hurts, it's great having the Loony Bin back in Wichita!

Check out the full lineup and grab tickets at The Loony Bin.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’ THIS WEEKEND?

🎶 Magic of Motown
Get ready for a night of classic hits, smooth vocals, and plenty of nostalgia! Magic of Motown brings the sounds of the Temptations, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and more to the stage for a fun night of music.
📍 Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Friday, November 13 | 7:30 PM
🎟️ $48.20
🔗 More info

🎭 The Christmas Princess — A Cowtown Melodrama
A little holiday drama is always a good thing! Head to the Empire House Theater for this Christmas-themed melodrama filled with humor, over-the-top characters, and plenty of audience participation.
📍 Empire House Theater
📆 Friday, November 13 | 7:00 PM
🎟️ $15 Adults, $7 Children, Ages 0–4 FREE
🔗 More info

🛍️ Vintage Market Days: Oh What Fun
Time to get a head start on holiday shopping! Vintage Market Days is bringing together vendors featuring vintage finds, antiques, home décor, clothing, handmade goods, and unique gifts. It's a fun place to browse and maybe cross a few people off your Christmas list.
📍 Wichita Sports Forum
📆 November 13–15 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
🎟️ $10
🔗 More info

🎉 Family Fun Fest
A morning of fun for the whole family! Family Fun Fest brings together activities, entertainment, and opportunities for kids of all abilities to play, explore, and enjoy a day out together.
📍 Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Saturday, November 14 | 8:30 AM
🎟️ $6–$10
🔗 More info

🤼 2026 American Grappling Federation Wichita Open
If you enjoy watching competitive martial arts, check out the Wichita Open! Grapplers of all ages and experience levels will take the mats for a full day of jiu-jitsu competition.
📍 South YMCA – Greater Wichita YMCA
📆 Saturday, November 14 | 7:30 AM
🎟️ $15 all-day pass
🔗 More info

🪶 2026 Annual Veterans Pow-Wow
Celebrate Native American culture, tradition, and veterans at this annual community gathering. The event is open to the public and offers an opportunity to experience the music, dancing, and traditions of a pow-wow while honoring those who have served.
📍 Calvary Methodist Church, 2525 N. Rock Road, Wichita
📆 Saturday, November 14 | 2:00 PM
🎟️ FREE
🔗 More info

In February 2025, Wichita voters turned down a $450 million school bond by about 300 votes. Last week, the district came back asking for $615 million, and this time it passed with about 60% of the vote.

So what changed? I dug into it. The district slowed down, built a more specific plan, split the ballot into two questions, and got the business community on board. But the biggest factor probably isn’t what you’d guess.

I also break down what it means for your property taxes and which schools are getting work.

(Click Each One To See The Full Listing!)

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!