The Blue Earth Plaza was designed as both green space and as an event space. Located near downtown Manhattan, this space has various events throughout the year.
The Blue Earth Plaza is located near downtown Manhattan and is a popular site for several local events throughout the year. The plaza is located adjacent to The Flint Hills Discover Center, Manhattan Hilton Garden Inn, Blue Earth Place, and the Candlewood Suites.
As part of the downtown redevelopment, this space was geared towards entertainment. During the summer families can gather at the splash park to cool off or enjoy the picnic tables and some shade. In the fall and spring, visitors can enjoy evenings by the fireplace or use this as a place to gather with friends. The large grass areas are perfect for tossing a Frisbee or relaxing with a good book.
Many events throughout the Fall are fun for the whole family!
In the fall, is the Young Trustee's MHK Chili Cook-Off! This event started in 2017 and has grown every year. Over 30 competitors participated last year in the Chili Cook-Off and the event raised over $10,000 that was then donated to various local non-profits. This event is all about good-spirited fun and raising money for local charities. In fact, many businesses have their own chili cook-off's prior to the event just to see who's chili is best and to decide which one they will enter. If you are interested in participating or to get tickets, you can click here for more information. If you would like to participate in the event as a sponsor, you can find additional information here.
Another popular fall event held at the Blue Earth Plaza is the Flint Hills Beer Fest which benefits the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice. This event features over 30 Breweries that offer beer samples, live music, vendors, food, and more. Spend the day enjoying great music, new beers, and best of all food!
Start your tour of the scluptures downtown 
Donor plaque for the Manhattan Bridge Project
Started in 2013, the Festival of Lights is one of the best events in town! It kicks off every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Shortly after Santa gets to town the tree is lit and the festivities began. Growing every year, the event is put on solely by local donations and volunteers. The tree is the largest pre-lit Christmas tree in Kansas and is synced to music through the local KMAN radio station. Enjoy various family events on the weekends, carriage rides around the plaza and downtown, and tons of photo opportunities with all the lights and sights! Make time to discover the magic for yourself!
Use the green space areas to toss a frisbee or relax with a good book and enjoy the outside!
I hope you are able to make it to at least one of the events. The Blue Earth Plaza is truly a great space and in the perfect location!
