By Caroline Blanke
Elsewhere Fest marked a journey of many firsts for our team: Communications Director Caroline, Video Director Kacie, Creative Director Cameron, and Engagement Director McKenzie.
What better way to kick off our adventure with music festivals than in Wichita, Kansas? None of us had ever experienced such an event before, and it proved to be an unforgettable journey. Our 2.5-hour drive from Lawrence showcased the gorgeous Kansas landscape, with rolling, fluorescent hills stretching for miles, setting the day off with a sense of bliss.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the inviting aroma of food trucks, a variety of merch, and the warm hospitality of the Elsewhere Staff outside The Wave venue. The festival featured an open concept, spanning most of downtown Wichita. Walking through the historic side of town, we encountered multiple stages offering a diverse array of music genres. From indie rock to hip-hop and neo-soul, the Wichita music scene had it all.
Inside The Wave, we bumped into our friends, The Whips, fresh off their performance. Guitarist Max shared, “My favorite song to perform was I’m Beggin because hearing Max Cooper sing makes me really happy!” Drummer Miles chimed in, preferring the song Best Friends since “These are my best friends,” prompting a heartfelt “AWW” from the other members. Their camaraderie was palpable, showing how music had brought them to Wichita and closer together. And beware of challenging any member to a dance battle—Quinn’s dance move “the worm” is unbeatable, making challengers, like myself, forfeit on the spot!
After catching up with The Whips, we headed to Naftzger Park to see Social Cinema. The stage was stunning, nestled amidst restaurants and businesses, making the band the central focus of the bustling area. Their indie rock performance was unforgettable, with wild guitar riffs and energetic hair flipping that kept the crowd dancing and swaying.
Following the show, and a quick stop at the free photo op, we returned to The Wave to see The Encore and Hip Hop Collective. Cameron and I had seen The Encore before (I even own one of their beanies from their mind-blowing performance at The Granada in May). Once again, they delivered a stellar show, alongside Hip Hop Collective. You couldn’t help but stand there in awe of how some people could be so talented and real!
Keo and Them performed next and did not disappoint. Their mix of neo-soul, pop, and funk resonated with the hundreds of attendees. Songs like Anxiety and Fool Me Once struck a chord with everyone. We connected with the group after their performance, learning about Keo and Neo’s journey from Texas to Wichita and the formation of the band. Chloe, one of the members, reflected on how joining the band helped her “get out of [her] comfort zone.” Conversations like these highlighted how music serves as a universal language, connecting people across different backgrounds and enabling them to share messages, overcome fears, and express themselves fully.
The night ended with a high-energy performance by Vince Staples. His solo act, complemented by flashing lights and giant beach balls bouncing through the audience, created an electrifying atmosphere. His confident stage presence and dedication to bringing West Coast hip-hop to the Midwest made for an unforgettable finale.
As the night ended, we embarked on our road trip home, filled with gratitude. Special thanks to Justin, Ryan, and Marley for making this experience possible, and to all the bands for teaching us about the joys of friendship and self-discovery through music. We were reminded of the importance of supporting local music. It fosters community, nurtures emerging talent, and keeps the vibrant spirit of creativity alive.
We look forward to next year’s Elsewhere Fest. See you soon, Wichita!
