Book fans can learn more about the 2026 ReadICT challenge on Saturday
With the holidays over, Wichita can turn its attention to other things — like choosing what to read for the year or getting married.
Following is a list of fun things to do this weekend, which includes a ReadICT event at the Advanced Learning Library and the annual Bridal Expo at Century II:
ReadICT party
Wichita’s annual ReadICT challenge is in its 10th year, and local book fans can gather for a casual celebration on Saturday at the Advanced Learning Library, 711 W. Second St., and talk about the new categories or get recommendations. The challenge, a partnership of KMUW, The Wichita Eagle and the Wichita Public Library, challenges people to read 12 books from 12 pre-selected categories in 12 months. The categories change each year. The Saturday event at the library lasts from 1 to 3 p.m. in Conference Room AB. Admission is free.
Bridal Expo
If you’re engaged or hope to be, this weekend’s annual Bridal & Event Expo at Century II could provide some useful information. The event, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday in the Convention and Exhibition halls, will be filled with more than 100 wedding vendors who specialize in bridal gowns, reception sites, music, photography and more. The event will also include wedding fashion shows. A one-day ticket is $17.43, and a weekend pass is $20.90. Tickets are available at the door, at selectaseat.com and www.century2.com/events, or by phone at 316-755-7328.
Abstract art exhibition
Mark Arts, at 1307 N. Rock Road, will open its biennial Abstract National Exhibition on Friday. The show will feature works from contemporary artists around the country, all selected by juror Joan Fullerton. An opening-night reception, which will feature live music and a cash bar, will last from 5 to 7 p.m. Fullerton will speak at 7 p.m. Admission is free. The show will be up through March 21 in the Gladys and Karl T. Wiedemann Gallery.
CityArts open house
CityArts, at 334 N. Mead, is putting on an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors will be able to see live demonstrations of various mediums, including ceramics, glassblowing, glass fusing, metal smithing and mixed media. Those who want to try their hand at making art can do so for $5, but admission to the open house is free. It will also include make-and-take projects for kids.
Dueling pianos
Among the most popular events offered at Jerry’s Bar & Grill, 630 N. Robin Road, are its dueling piano shows, during which two piano players perform audience requests. Another one is happening this weekend. It will start at 9 p.m. on Friday. Admission is $10.
Candlelight concerts
East High School, 2301 E. Douglas, will be the venue on Saturday for two installments of the candlelight concerts put on by production company Fever. The first show happens at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and will feature musicians on stage surrounded by candles and performing songs by the bands Coldplay and Imagine Dragons, including hits such as “Fix You,” “Clocks,” “Believer” and “Radioactive.” The second show, which starts at 8:45 p.m. will feature songs by composer Hans Zimmer, including selections from the “The Lion King” and “Madagascar” soundtracks. Attendees must be 8 or older, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The shows last for an hour, and doors open 45 minutes before showtime. Tickets range from $38 to $56.74 and must be purchased in advance at feverup.com