September 25 - 27, 2026Drone Light Festival

FAQs

• What is a Drone Light Show?

  Drone light shows are performed by swarms of lighted drones arranged into aerial formations.  Almost any image can be created in the sky by a computer program that turns graphics into flight commands and communicates them to the drones.  The lights can be animated, and choreographed with music, to create a mesmerizing and powerful experience. What makes the experience truly magical is that the image is 3D. Imagine a sphere spinning in the sky versus a 2D flat pancake. A bird flapping its wings, a plane soaring or a tornado whirling. The depth of the images make them come alive in a way that only drones can do.

• What should we expect for the Drone Light Show?

  The program will be presented by Firefly Drone Shows, one of the most experienced operators in the country.  They are launching 400 drones into formations that will soar up to 400 feet above the Wichita skyline (as a point of reference, the Epic Center is 320 feet tall).    

  This year’s show will feature 500 drones with vibrant LED lighting. A variety of animated scenes will be presented, including several that have been customized specially for us. The show will culminate with a special lighting of the Keeper of the Plains fire pots. 

  New for 2026 – pyro drones!

• Where’s the best place to watch the show?

  Our advice is to find a spot on the river bank or river path that provides a clear view of the Keeper of the Plains, and the two bridge pillars. If you can see all three, you should have a great view. The sound system will cover the whole viewing area. See site map for details.

  Seating for the amphitheater turf will be reserved for those who have purchased a seat or VIP upgrade.

  We can confirm that the show will be directly over the Keeper.

• When should we arrive?

  The gates will open at 6 pm and we encourage you to come early!  On the grounds, there will be live music, demonstrations, games, local vendors, food, drink and other entertainment.  It’s also a great opportunity to explore Exploration Place, which is fully included with your admission to the event.  In addition to all of our established favorites, don’t miss the brand new Adventure Playscape.  

  Please note that if you have purchased a Carload Pass, all guests must arrive in the same vehicle and none can walk in separately through the gate using that pass. Because you have purchased a Carload Pass it will guarantee you parking at the event.

  Details subject to change as we get closer to the event.

• How do I get tickets for VIP?

  The VIP area is reserved for show sponsors and those with pre-purchased tickets. Tickets are available for $125 per person and is in addition to the Carload Pass or individual admission. VIP ticket holders will have access to designated seating during the Drone Show, seating in the indoor VIP lounge, food and drinks, a guided tour through the drone launch zone and more.

• Will there be accessible parking and seating?

  A limited number of accessible parking spaces are available, and a wheelchair accessible viewing area has been assigned for the drone show itself. See site map for details. The Exploration Place buildings and exhibits are ADA compliant.  

  ​Accessible parking spaces will require the purchase of a Carload Pass. Individual tickets do not include parking, including accessible spaces. 

• Are outside food and drinks allowed?

  Yes, with the exception of alcohol and anything in a glass container.

• Are dogs and other pets allowed?

  It is unlawful for any person to have any animal at any festival or community event authorized under a permit issued pursuant to the City Code* and occurring within the city, unless such animal is a specially trained service dog and actually in the control of the disabled person. For this reason, we cannot allow admission of any animals or pets within the festival grounds unless they are certified service animals.

  *Pursuant to Chapter 3.11 of the Code of the City of Wichita

• Can I bring blankets and chairs?

  Yes, feel free!  Be aware that much of the prime viewing area is a grassy slope.

• What should I leave at home?

  Please do not bring alcohol onto the site.  Glass bottles and containers are also prohibited. Pets are prohibited. There is no smoking inside Exploration Place, Adventure Playscape, or our surrounding property.

• Am I able to leave the event and come back later?

  Re-entry is not permitted for vehicles. If you need to leave the gated area by foot, stop at the check-in tent and get a wristband for re-entry. Without a wristband, you will not be able to re-enter.

• What happens if the weather is bad?

  The drones can fly in wind speeds of up to 25mph –by comparison, 20mph winds will cancel most fireworks shows. The show may be delayed for up to 1 hour to allow temporary weather conditions to pass. In 2022 we had to move the launch time forward (earlier) to avoid pending storms.

  In the event of cancellation or delay, announcements will be made as soon as possible via social media and using the sitewide PA system. Please make sure you are on-site 60 minutes before the show’s start time in case of a last-minute weather change.

  In the unlikely event of complete cancellation, the rain date is Monday, September 28. The show will be held unless Exploration Place decides to cancel due to wind, lightning or other unsafe conditions. 

  Please note that there are no refunds for Drone Light Festival tickets, even in the case of inclement weather. We are thankful for your understanding.

• Why is Exploration Place doing this?

  The mission of Exploration Place is “to inspire a deeper interest in science and technology through creative and fun experiences for all.”   We believe this is a creative and fun way to appreciate the increasing importance of drones and UAVs in the modern world.

• Why should I watch this at Exploration Place?

  Like fireworks, the drones will be visible from miles around and all spectators are welcome, wherever they are.  But the prime viewing spot will be at Exploration Place, for two big reasons.  (1) The positioning and orientation of the show in the sky will be optimized for spectators watching from Exploration Place.  (2) The show is choreographed to music that will be played through a sound system that covers the Exploration Place grounds.

• Are refunds available?

  Tickets are sold by specific date, with no refunds or rainchecks. The rain date is Monday, September 28. If the event is canceled due to inclement weather or technical issues, the price of your ticket will be converted into a tax-deductible donation for Exploration Place. No refunds will be issued. 

• How can my business or organization become a vendor?

  A limited number of spaces are available, and we will close the application portal once full. [APPLY TO BE A VENDOR]

• Can I volunteer to help at the event?

  Yes! We love volunteers. Individuals and groups (age 16+) can find out more about volunteer opportunities and register for each night HERE.