30th annual Kansas Storytelling Festival celebrate rich tradition

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DOWNS – The Kansas Storytelling Festival, now in its 30th year, is set to captivate audiences with a diverse lineup of nationally acclaimed tellers, regional talent, and engaging workshops. Held in the charming storytelling capital of Kansas, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the timeless art of oral storytelling.

Scheduled for April 26 and 27, the festival will feature five nationally achieved tellers who will enchant audiences with their captivating tales. From personal adventure, folklore, and prize-winning lies Bil Lepp, Kim Weitkamp Gum, Andy Offutt Irwin, Anne Rutherford, and Dino O’Dell, will showcase the depth and richness of the storytelling tradition.

In addition to the featured tellers, the festival will highlight the talents of regional storytellers, providing a platform for local voices to shine. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in workshops led by professional storytellers, honing their own storytelling skills and public speaking techniques.

“One of the highlights of the festival is the Tall Tales Contest on Friday evening, where storytellers compete for the title of the best tall tale. Audiences can expect larger-than-life tales that stretch the bounds of your imagination,” said Mike Nyhoff, Kansas Master Storyteller.

To enhance the festival experience, attendees can enjoy breakfast and dinner with the tellers, offering an intimate opportunity to connect with the featured storytellers and fellow storytelling enthusiasts. Meals are at an additional cost. Downs will host Food trucks during the day downtown and a dessert bar at intermission of the evening performances at the Memorial Hall.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Kansas Storytelling Festival,” said Sherry Knouf, festival organizer. “For three decades, this festival has been bringing together storytellers and audiences from across the country to celebrate our shared oral traditions,” adds Knouf.

The Kansas Storytelling Festival is proud to be hosted in Down, the storytelling capital of Kansas, renowned for its rich history and vibrant storytelling community. With its charming streets and welcoming atmosphere, Downs provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend of storytelling magic.

For more information, visit Kansas Storytelling Festival and purchase buttons. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the Kansas Storytelling Festival.