After a successful debut last year as Elsewhere Festival, the rebranded Somewhere Festival & Conference returns to Downtown Wichita, KS, on June 13-14, further cementing itself as a hub for music, community, and social change. With a forward-thinking approach, the festival embraces a genre-agnostic lineup, cutting-edge technology, and immersive experiences, establishing Wichita as a creative and cultural force in the music industry.
This year’s star-studded lineup includes electronic music powerhouse Deadmau5, genre-blurring sensation Suki Waterhouse, rising hip-hop star BigXthaPlug, and visionary producer Flying Lotus. They are joined by an eclectic mix of Kim Gordon, Aloe Blacc with 2ŁØT, Cassian, Tinlicker Live, Jerro, Die Spitz, Tommy Newport, Elise Trouw, La Luz, Chris Luno, and more, reflecting Somewhere Festival’s dedication to diverse musical expression.
“When we launched this festival, it was about creating a space for artists and music workers who weren’t finding the support they needed in traditional industry spaces,” says Chase Koch, founder of Movement Musick. “With Somewhere Festival, we’re proving that Wichita isn’t ‘elsewhere’ when it comes to music and culture—it’s Somewhere. A place where artists and audiences can connect, collaborate, and create something truly meaningful.”
A Festival With a Mission: Music, Innovation & Social Change
Beyond music, Somewhere Festival integrates art, technology, and social impact, offering an immersive experience unlike any other. Festivalgoers can explore AI-driven music experiences, live murals, graffiti art, and hands-on workshops curated by Harvester Arts. The festival operates as a not-for-profit, ensuring inclusivity with affordable tickets and a free concert stage open to the entire community.
“Somewhere Festival is about using music as a platform for creativity, exploration, and positive change,” says Jessie Hartke, CEO and Director of Midtopia. “Last year proved that this vision resonates, and this year we’re going even bigger—offering more opportunities for connection, artistic discovery, and real impact in Wichita.”
Through partnerships with The Phoenix, 1 Million Strong, Learning Lab Wichita, Empower North End, Create Campaign, The Neighboring Movement, and others, the festival offers activations focused on addiction recovery, mental health, education, economic mobility, and free speech advocacy. Attendees can engage in social change initiatives and even earn exclusive festival swag for taking action.
Somewhere Conference: A Gathering for Artists & Music Industry Professionals
Complementing the festival is the Somewhere Conference, an essential gathering for artists, music workers, and industry professionals looking to grow their careers. The conference features a fireside chat with Aloe Blacc, who will discuss artistry, activism, and navigating the modern music industry. Additional panels and workshops will explore topics like audience growth, platform-building, and using music for social change.
“Somewhere Festival is more than a festival—it’s a movement,” says Midtopia artist Rudy Love Jr. “It’s about giving artists the space to create, but also the tools to build sustainable careers, the knowledge to make an impact, and the community to support them along the way.”
A Culinary Experience That Goes Beyond the Music
Festivalgoers will also be treated to an exciting food and beverage experience, featuring dozens of vendors offering a mix of local, regional, and international cuisine, including vegan and plant-based options. Unique interactive experiences include:
- Blind Taste Challenge – Attendees sample mystery foods and drinks blindfolded and guess the ingredients for a chance to win prizes.
- Foodie Photo Op Challenge – A dedicated backdrop for capturing creative food photos, with prizes awarded for the best images.
By showcasing local food entrepreneurs, Somewhere Festival further strengthens its ties to Wichita’s growing cultural landscape.
A New Era for Wichita’s Music Scene
As Somewhere Festival evolves, it continues to redefine what a music festival can be, proving that Wichita is more than just a stop on the map—it’s a destination for music lovers, artists, and changemakers. Whether it’s discovering boundary-pushing artists, engaging in thought-provoking conversations, or immersing in interactive art, attendees will experience firsthand why Wichita is fast becoming a must-visit cultural hub.
Somewhere Festival & Conference takes place June 13-14 in Downtown Wichita, KS. For tickets and more information, visit somewhere-fest.com.