That’s A Wrap
As another year comes to a close, I like to sit back (preferably, with a drink in hand) and reflect on what I have learned and the most impactful moments over the last 360-ish days. My key takeaway as a PR professional in a 2-year pandemic is travelers have opened their eyes to destinations that they wouldn’t have considered as a vacation spot in the past. Us so called “fly over states”, which is a term I’m officially removing in 2022, are being looked at more and more as great family vacation spots and sought-after for our outdoor adventures and opportunities. We tip our hats to you, as media partners, travel writers, bloggers, and influencers. We’ve known all along that we have much to offer visitors, we just needed your help in telling our stories. Thank you for shining our light and showing travelers what a Kansas experience looks like.
Wanting to share travel ideas on your show? Email me to set up an interview, colby.sharplesterry@ks.gov
Be sure to use #ToTheStarsKS when posting about Kansas on your social channels.
TO THE STORIES SERIES
EPISODE NO. 4 RELEASED- A Cowboy State
Kansas is a special place, filled with incredible stories. The Story Series explores the tales of the faces and places that make Kansas such an incredible place to live and explore.
Need Some Last Minute Gift Ideas?
NEW MERCH ALERT! Ready for Kansas-centric stocking stuffers? A KANSAS! Magazine gift subscription consists of 5 issues throughout the year filled with authentic stories and photography of our state. For over seven decades, this magazine has been the authority on Kansas, and today continues to capture readers’ attention with an insider look to the great people, places, communities, and life in the Sunflower State. The KANSAS! 2022 Wall Calendar showcases the work of talented Kansas photographers from across the state, so it reminds you of your favorite place every day of the year. And don’t forget to pick up your Kansas gear! From ‘To the Stars’ shirts to unique stickers, from tote bags to bottle openers, there’s a Kansas gift for every one on your list. When you give these gifts, you’re giving the gift of Kansas… So make sure to check your list twice.
Light Up the Mine
What’s cooler (get it😊) than going down 650 feet below earth’s surface in the only open salt mine in the U.S.? Doing it during Strataca’s Season of Lights event. Happening now through January 9, 2022, the underground mine is decked out with lights, merry decorations, and some jazzy Christmas tunes.
Other attractions in the mine include the Dark Ride, a 30 minute tour on a tram through an area of the mine that includes lit areas explaining the challenges and unique solutions required to keep mines safe and functional. Learn why the Atomic Energy Commission almost chose Strataca for the safe storage of Nuclear Waste, and so much more from their experienced guides. You also get to collect a souvenir piece of salt! Don’t’ forget, you can also add on the Salt Mine Express and journey into a raw portion of the salt mine where virtually everything is exactly as it was left over 50 years ago.
NYE in The Little Apple
Celebrate the ringing in of a new year in Manhattan, KS at the historic Aggieville District. Little Apple New Year’s Eve is hosting their 17th apple drop on December 31st. 2021. There will be plenty of events happening all night leading up to the 2022 welcome!
A Caffeinated Road Trip
With the holiday season upon us, comes cooler temperatures, travels across the state to see family and friends and…. the need for coffee? While the days may seem shorter in the winter, the demands of the holiday season seem to grow longer than our holiday wish lists. What better way to regain your holiday spirit than a little exploring, supporting small local businesses, and most importantly staying CAFFEINATED! We have put together some of our favorite small-town coffee shops from all 6 regions of the state for you to checkout and re-caffeinate while traveling, shopping, or simply stopping in to destress before you head back to a house full of relatives….loved ones 😉!
Events in Kansas
Check out the wide variety of special events taking place near you year-round – celebrating arts, culture, athletics and more! Need something to do this weekend? Or planning a trip? Kansas has you covered with events and festivals happening every single weekend across the state!
For PR & media questions and inquiries, email colby.sharplesterry@ks.gov
