Good morning, Topeka.

The Spirit of Kansas Festival returns on Saturday, July 4 at Lake Shawnee.

The event opens with a car show at 9 a.m., followed by Blues Fest from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and ends with Capitol Federal Fireworks at 10 p.m.+ vendors and food trucks serve attendees.

A new mural titled 'Reflections of North Topeka' will be unveiled today at 4 p.m. under the Kansas Avenue Memorial Bridge near Veterans Park, 131 N.E.

Laurent St. More than 90 volunteers helped create the artwork that celebrates community history and spirit — a result of local collaboration.

AAA Kansas says gas prices have dropped to $3.51 per gallon—a 39-cent decrease from last month—as holiday travelers plan trips for Fourth of July and are reminded to drive safely.

Local residents say the lower cost helps ease travel concerns.

Carl Carlson, founder and CEO of Carlson Financial, visited Eye on NE Kansas today to share advice that saving regularly, spending intentionally and avoiding unnecessary debt can build long-term financial success (he stressed that consistent habits matter).

On July 1, Gov. Kelly and KDHE confirmed that rural hospitals including CAHs & REHs will receive an extra $83 million in Medicaid funding through the Health Care Access Improvement Program.

The added funds will boost access to essential care for Medicaid patients in rural communities.

Topeka Mayor Spencer Duncan reminded residents on July 2 to save fireworks for July 3-4 and follow tips while grilling and lighting fireworks.

He advised checking gas grills for propane leaks and said police may be alerted if early displays violate the law (fire safety remains a priority).

State leaders officially opened the Kansas Office of Early Childhood today, consolidating 20 programs across state agencies to reduce paperwork for families.

The new director said a local Childcare Go Team will tackle local code obstacles — making childcare access simpler.

Helping Hands Humane Society advises pet owners to update microchips and secure fences to keep pets safe during the Fourth of July weekend.

The nonprofit offers a discounted $15 rate and provides 24/7 scanners at Avondale East, Bark Park, and its location for scanning lost pet collars.

Envista Eats & Beats

6-9 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and live music in a vibrant community atmosphere.

The Harvey Brothers Band Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Kick Start Saloon — Free entry — The Harvey Brothers Band plays live in Topeka for the first time, inviting everyone to ride their bikes over.

Boys Volleyball Training Camp

8:45 AM – 3:30 PM — Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena — Training fee required — Improve your volleyball skills with focused training for young male athletes.

Topeka Job Fair

12:30-3:00 p.m. — Crestview Community Center — Free entry — Explore a variety of job opportunities and connect with local employers in a vibrant setting.

Topeka Blues Society Summertime Blues Concert

6 p.m. — Gage Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Experience a night of blues music with live performances by local bands in a scenic park setting.

Live Country Music Night with Steel Skarecrow

7-11 p.m. — Saddle Up Bar and Grill — Free entry — Experience a blend of nineties country and southern soul that tells a story through modern music.

KAZHA Live Performance

8:00 – 11:59 PM — The Legendary Boobie Trap Bar — Ticket info TBA — Experience a unique blend of power rock from the Japanese band fronted by Kazuha Oda.

Bike Night Featuring Milltown

7-11 p.m. — Kickstart Saloon — Free entry — Milltown rockin it southern style on Kick’s outdoor stage for a great time.

Willow Rose's Country for the Pets

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Northside Social — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of live music with Ryan Manuel, a passionate singer-songwriter from Lawrence, Kansas.

Full Band Performance at Evergy Plaza

7-11 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a lively full band set from MNB, who play over 100 shows a year.