Happy Friday! We finally got some rain which has been a huge blessing. My grass is loving it. We’ve officially jumped into summer mode around our house now that the girls are out of school. We had school field day, wrapped up soccer season, and even went tubing at El Dorado Lake already… and yes, the water was freezing cold!

In other news, one of the Wichita area’s most talked about entertainment projects is finally becoming a reality as Derby Shores prepares to break ground after Memorial Day weekend. I’ve also got some fun local events happening around town this weekend, plus a new video breaking down why Wichita’s housing market is starting to split in two depending on the price range you’re shopping in.

– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)

After years of excitement, anticipation, and “coming soon” conversations, Derby Shores is finally moving from concept to construction. City leaders recently announced that the long-awaited surf and water recreation development in Derby is set to break ground following Memorial Day weekend, marking a major milestone for one of the Wichita area’s most talked-about projects.

For a long time, Derby Shores felt almost too ambitious to imagine locally—a destination built around surfing, outdoor recreation, dining, and entertainment right here in south-central Kansas. But now, with construction officially beginning, the project is truly starting to come to life.

The development will feature a massive surf lagoon powered by wave-generating technology, allowing visitors to surf and enjoy water activities without heading to the coast. Plans also include beaches, cabanas, restaurants, entertainment areas, and spaces designed for both visitors and community events.

And honestly, that’s what makes this project feel so different. This isn’t just another pool or splash pad—it’s being designed as a true destination experience for the region. Whether you’re interested in surfing, relaxing by the water, grabbing dinner with friends, or simply checking out something completely new for Kansas, Derby Shores is aiming to become a place people travel to.

The project is expected to be built in phases, with early construction focused on site preparation and infrastructure before the larger attractions begin taking shape.

For Derby and the surrounding Wichita metro, it also represents something bigger: continued growth and investment in entertainment and recreation projects that give residents more reasons to stay local for fun experiences. Over the last few years, the area has seen major momentum with new parks, sports facilities, attractions, and developments—and Derby Shores may end up being one of the most unique additions yet.

🎶 Phil Wickham – Song of the Saints Tour
Enjoy an uplifting night of worship and live music as Phil Wickham brings his latest tour to the Wichita area.
📍 Location: Heartland Credit Union Arena
📆 Date & Time: May 22, 2026 • 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $32
🔗 More info

🎬 RiverFlix – Featuring Finding Dory
Bring the family out for a free movie night along the river with everyone’s favorite forgetful blue tang.
📍 Location: Exploration Place
📆 Date & Time: May 22, 2026
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

🎉 MAAIM 50th Anniversary Concert and Party
Celebrate 50 years of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum with music, culture, and community festivities.
📍 Location: Mid-America All-Indian Museum
📆 Date & Time: May 23, 2026 • 5:00–8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Members $5 • General Admission $7
🔗 More info

🚛 Monster Trucks Live
Massive trucks, roaring engines, and big-air action take over the speedway for an adrenaline-filled day of family fun.
📍 Location: 81 Speedway, Inc.
📆 Date & Time: May 23, 2026 • 12:00–7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Adults $28.50 • Children $18.50
🔗 More info

🪴 Paint a Pot with ’Pacas
Get creative while spending time with alpacas during this unique and relaxing paint-and-craft experience.
📍 Location: Lazy Moon Ranch
📆 Date & Time: May 24, 2026 • 2:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $35
🔗 More info

🎾 Wichita Tennis Open 2026
Watch talented players compete during this annual tournament hosted at Wichita State’s tennis complex.
📍 Location: Sheldon Coleman Tennis Complex – WSU
📆 Date & Time: May 24, 2026 • 10:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

⛳ Folds of Honor Golf Tournament
Spend Memorial Day on the course supporting a meaningful cause benefiting military families and scholarships.
📍 Location: Auburn Hills Golf Course
📆 Date & Time: May 25, 2026 • 9:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: $125 Per Person • $500 Per Team
🔗 More info

🇺🇸 Memorial Day Commemoration
Honor and remember those who served during this meaningful community ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park.
📍 Location: Veterans Memorial Park
📆 Date & Time: May 25, 2026 • 11:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info

The Wichita housing market is splitting in two right now. Homes under $300K are flying off the market. Homes above $400K? Completely different story. Same city, totally different experience -- and if you don't know which market you're in, it can cost you real time and real money.

I broke the whole thing down in this week's video. Worth a watch before you make any moves.

(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!