Riley County Approves New Art and Craft Festival at CiCo Park

Two local breweries team up to bring German-inspired food and beverage celebration to Manhattan

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Riley County commissioners have approved a request from Manhattan Brewing Company and Aggieville Brewing Company to host a new community art and craft festival at CiCo Park on May 16. The goal is to create a German-inspired food and beverage celebration, according to Jake Voegeli, co-owner of Manhattan Brewing Company.

Why it matters

This new festival will bring more community events and attractions to CiCo Park, which is a popular recreation area in Manhattan, Kansas. It also highlights the growing collaboration between local businesses to create unique experiences that celebrate the city's culture and heritage.

The details

The two-day festival will feature art and craft vendors, live music, and German-style food and drinks from the two local breweries. The event is intended to draw visitors from across the region to enjoy the park's amenities and support the local business community.

  • The festival will take place on May 16, 2026.

The players

Manhattan Brewing Company

A local brewery in Manhattan, Kansas that is co-organizing the new art and craft festival at CiCo Park.

Aggieville Brewing Company

A local brewery in Manhattan, Kansas that is co-organizing the new art and craft festival at CiCo Park.

Jake Voegeli

The co-owner of Manhattan Brewing Company who presented the festival plans to the Riley County commissioners.

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What they’re saying

“The goal is to create a German-inspired food and beverage celebration.”

— Jake Voegeli, Co-owner, Manhattan Brewing Company (b1047.com)

What’s next

The festival organizers will now work to finalize the vendor lineup, entertainment schedule, and other logistical details ahead of the May 16 event date.

The takeaway

This new festival demonstrates the collaborative spirit of Manhattan's local business community and their commitment to bringing unique cultural experiences to the city. It is an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy art, craft, food, and drink in the beautiful setting of CiCo Park.