Wilson Tourism Hub

Paper Moon Festival 2026
2026-05-01 - 2026-05-02 | Midland Railroad Hotel & Restaurant
Filmed in Wilson and a few other surrounding towns, Paper Moon is a beloved comedy-drama that earned four Academy Award nominations. Each year, Wilson hosts the Paper Moon Festival to celebrate the film’s impressive past and staying power — and to recall days gone by.
All events take place in downtown Wilson near the Midland Railroad Hotel. The Barn, The Sample Room and The Patio are on hotel grounds. The schedule is subject to change.
Friday, May 1
5-8 p.m.
Fried Chicken Buffet in The Barn
5-10 p.m.
The Sample Room and The Patio serving dinner from regular menu
5:30 p.m.
Sweet Adeleines performance (a cappella barbershop harmony) on The Patio
8 p.m.
Paper Moon screening in The Barn along with an exclusive first look at Paper Moon Rise, a documentary about the making of the movie (free popcorn; other concessions for sale)
May 2, 2026 Events
Czech Bakery available until pastries are gone!
10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Arthur Jellison exhibition in cooperation with University of Kansas Kenneth Spencer Research Library
Arthur Jellison 1920-40 period movie premier (continuous play) at the 2711 Shared Workspace (behind Midland Mercantile)
Betty Kepka Museum open
Midland Mercantile and Art Gallery open
Antique tractor on hotel grounds
Hays Community Theatre Paper Moon re-enactments
Self-guided Paper Moon locations walking tours
Antique cars: Vote for your favorite! Free will donation for photo ops; funds support Wilson Heritage Museum
Visit with Paper Moon Rise documentary director and producers

11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Coney Island bar and pies in The Barn
Bingo on The Patio
Vendors

12 p.m.-4 p.m.
Face painting on The Patio
1 p.m.-4 p.m.
White lightning (moonshine) sampling and cigars outside The Barn
2 p.m.
Stick horse race
3 p.m.
Ice cream social on The Patio (free will donation)
4 p.m.
Sweet Adeleines performance on The Patio
5-10 p.m.
Fried chicken dinner on The Patio and in The Sample Room
7-10 p.m.
Kansas All-Star Big Band and Wichita Swing Dance Society

After Harvest Czech Festival 2026
2026-07-24 - 2026-07-25
Each year, the After Harvest Czech Festival attracts thousands of visitors to the small town of Wilson — the Czech Capital of Kansas. The vibrant festival celebrates Czech heritage, encourages community and offers an unforgettable weekend for all ages.
The complete 2026 schedule is coming soon, but previous events have included:

Live music, with genres ranging from polka to rock
Beer garden
Craft fair
Carnival rides
Ice cream social
Czech food
Polka dancing
Genealogy classes
KS Czech-Slovak Queen Pageant
Czech Kroj fashion show
