History of
Tumbleweed Festival

Since 1994, The Tumbleweed Festival has been a cornerstone of live entertainment in Southwest Kansas, bringing together diverse musical acts, local artisans, and family-friendly activities in a celebration of community and culture. Established in Garden City, Kansas, the festival was founded with a vision to provide high-quality entertainment while fostering a welcoming space for all generations to enjoy music, art, and family entertainment.​

 

A Tradition of Live Music and Community Engagement

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The Tumbleweed Festival began as a grassroots effort by passionate volunteers who believed in enriching the cultural landscape of Southwest Kansas. Over the years, it has grown into a well-loved tradition, featuring regional and national performers across multiple genres—including folk, bluegrass, rock, country, and jazz.

Among the many talented acts to grace the Tumbleweed stage, notable performers such as BarlowGirl and country artist Jerrod Niemann have brought national recognition to the festival. Meanwhile, beloved returning entertainers have helped shape the festival’s identity, creating lasting memories for generations of attendees. Acts like Mr. Bones Puppeteer have become fan favorites, delighting families year after year with engaging performances that capture the spirit of Tumbleweed.

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Adapting and Expanding Beyond the Festival

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While music remains at the heart of Tumbleweed, the organization has evolved beyond a single event. Recognizing the importance of year-round engagement, the all-volunteer board has worked to expand its impact by supporting other cultural initiatives, partnering with local organizations, and strengthening its infrastructure to better serve the community. As part of this evolution, leadership has been restructured to create a more sustainable future, with dedicated co-chairs overseeing operations and administrative responsibilities.

Additionally, the organization has placed greater emphasis on strategic planning, grant writing, and community outreach. This ensures that Tumbleweed’s mission—to enrich Southwest Kansas through live entertainment—continues to thrive for years to come.​

 

Looking Ahead

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As The Tumbleweed Festival moves forward, the commitment to celebrating live entertainment and fostering community connections remains stronger than ever. Through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and a passion for bringing people together, the organization continues to be a driving force in enhancing the cultural vibrancy of Garden City and beyond.

Whether you’ve been attending for years or are experiencing Tumbleweed for the first time, we invite you to be part of our story as we continue to grow, adapt, and celebrate the arts in Southwest Kansas.