Good morning, Topeka.

At Evergy Plaza in Topeka, pet owners gathered for the second annual Doggie Date Night with vendor booths, splash pads and contests—many enjoyed creating keepsakes with their dogs.

Dean Whitegon said his playful dog Rex won a cutest dog award—his brother Dylan expressed delight at the variety of breeds on display.

On May 26, the Topeka Police Department launched the Police and Community Together initiative to reduce violent crime and build community trust, making 28 arrests for incidents including two homicides, aggravated battery and shootings, and aggravated burglary — a Crime Summit is set for July 22 from 6-8 p.m. at Hill Crest Community Center.

Photographer Joel Sartore spoke at White Concert Hall on Saturday, June 14 at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center to explain how locals can help save wildlife—his talk, part of a fundraiser for the Tiger Trails & Den Academy Project, also highlighted his work with National Geographic Photo Arc that has captured 17,000 animals.

Stormont Vail partnered with Walmart to raise money for children's healthcare through the Children Miracle Network by hosting a fundraising cookout at the Walmart on SW 37th St. on Saturday—community donations supported vital care for kids, and the fundraiser will continue at all Topeka Walmarts until July 6.

Eats & Beats Featuring Dead Bettys

Thursday evenings — Evergy Plaza — Enjoy local food trucks and live music — Experience an unforgettable summer of music in Downtown Topeka.

Undercover: An 80's Experience

6-9 p.m. — Compass Point: Home of Dirty Girl Adventures — $8 cover, kids under 12 are free — Enjoy an energetic night of singing and dancing to your favorite 80's hits with local talent.

Topeka Renaissance Festival

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — The Woodshed Event Center — $14+ per day — Experience jousting, games, and entertainment at this exciting festival of medieval fun.

Country Stampede Festival 2025

June 25-28 — Topeka, Kansas — Prices vary — Celebrate country music with top artists, family-friendly fun, and delicious local cuisine.

7th Annual Sneakers & Smiles Golf Tournament

2-8 p.m. — Cypress Ridge Golf Course — $380 team entry fee — Participate in a fun-filled golf tournament benefiting Sole Reason, complete with extras like a silent auction and raffle prizes.

Summer Fireworks Extravaganza

7-10 p.m. — Avondale East Field — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of music, food, and a spectacular fireworks display.

An Unforgettable Evening with Eddie Wakes

7-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Ticket sales start May 6 — Experience the remarkable voice of Topeka native Eddie Wakes in a night of music and excitement.