Good morning, Topeka.

City officials announced that downtown streets will be closed and parking prohibited starting 7 a.m. Saturday for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which begins at noon on SW 10th Street and S.

Kansas Ave and follows a route closed to vehicles while local businesses remain open for pedestrians.

Midland Care launched the March for Meals campaign to support Meals on Wheels, which delivers free meals daily to more than 1,200 seniors in Shawnee, Jefferson, and Douglas counties.

An anonymous donor is matching donations up to $25,000 as over 200 seniors await service and volunteer drivers cover nearly 80 routes.

The Topeka Zoo offers 10% off memberships this March plus invites members to a Wake and Learn event on Friday, March 13 from 8 to 9 a.m., with memberships supporting animal care and facility upkeep.

At a Marquee Mixer held last night, the Jayhawk Theatre board detailed plans to transform the historic venue into a multi-use space (shows are expected in 2 to 3 years) while raising over $23 million toward a $35 million goal.

Robinson Middle School held its annual Man-Up initiative yesterday to empower young men with leadership skills, featuring role models from politics, policing and faith.

Mental health mentor Monte Simpkins said the event provided essential lessons in navigating life's challenges.

Legislators are reviewing a House bill to create a state sports authority that would own a $3B stadium and training center if local governments commit tax revenue + grant mayors full voting rights.

Local officials expect adjustments before the proposal moves forward in the legislative session.

Doctors testified today before the House Health and Human Services Committee on Senate Bill 448, which would let providers use expedited partner therapy to treat STD partners without an exam.

The Senate passed the bill 40-0, a step that may lower reinfection risks especially for pregnant patients.

Ticket sales for the Tap That Topeka Beer Festival open today; the event is set for June 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at SW 8th and Jackson near Celtic Fox, offering over 400 craft beers, food trucks, VIP options, and a free after-party with live music.

Washburn golfer Angelina Borg-Malec was named the MIAA Women’s Golfer of the Week on March 11.

She tied for fourth during the three-day event, shot 1-over par, and moved up 100 spots to 162 in the Division 2 individual national rankings.

Mater Dei Irish Fest 5k

3-4 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Check the festival's website for registration fee — Celebrate the return of the Mater Dei Irish Festival with a spirited 5k and lively Irish music.

Hoops Madness

10:50 a.m.-11:15 p.m. — Prairie Band Casino & Resort — Tickets starting at $87.45 — Experience an exciting day of basketball action at Prairie Band Hoops Madness.

AM Club

10 AM – 12 PM — Townsite Tower — Buy one get one free — Enjoy great music and vibes while making new friends over coffee and treats.

Tower of Power Concert

7-10 p.m. — Prairie Band Casino & Resort — Cost not specified — Experience the best in funk and soul music from the legendary Tower of Power.

Gelli Print Plant Collage Workshop

5-7:30 p.m. — Mize Art Studio — Cost not specified — Create vibrant printed papers and transform them into unique plant-themed collages.

2026 Spring Topeka Market Days

April 10-11 — Hotel Topeka At City Center — Entry varies — Explore over 100 unique vendors while enjoying live music and delicious food options.