Life + Culture

A Spellbinding Sight In The Air

Celebrate 50 Years of Topeka's Huff 'n Puff Hot Air Balloon Rally Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Stephen Ofsthun A sky filled with majestic, colorful hot air balloons is an enchanting experience. Maybe it's the human fascination with flight that captures everyone's attention and imagination. For whatever reason, watching the enormous fabric balloons lift a basket of people off the ground using nothing but hot air provided by a flaming burner that roars at the pilot's control is an...

Food + Beverage

Golden City's Round Up of Summer Treats

Enjoy These Local Delights to Beat the Heat Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography As the temperatures rise, all thoughts turn to an ice-cold treat as a way to refresh and cool off. Topeka is fortunate to have a variety of excellent local establishments catering to diverse tastes, from traditional frozen custard and pineapple whips to healthy, fruit-filled treats and a shake for cookie lovers. Since 2002, Sheridan's has served its renowned frozen custard to ice...

Entertainment

Eddie Wakes

Topeka’s Soulful Son Returns Home Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Piper Ferguson This July, Topeka’s own Eddie Wakes will grace the stage of the Topeka Performing Arts Center, bringing his velvety baritone and timeless jazz stylings back to the city where his musical journey began. The event, aptly titled An “Unforgettable” Evening with Eddie Wakes , promises a night of nostalgia, soul, and celebration ( topekaperformingarts.org ). With his debut album about to release and a...

Event Planning + Services

Rediscover Heritage Hall 

A Treasured Topeka Landmark, Reimagined as a Modern Event Space Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by Tara Helton/The Upside Photography As Topekans, we have always taken pride in our city's unique spaces—places steeped in history that still welcome the future with open arms. Heritage Hall is one of those places. Nestled in the Stormont Vail Events Center complex, this historic limestone structure has recently undergone a refreshing and exciting renovation, transforming it into a modern and...

Sports + Recreation

Demanding Lifestyle for Topeka Cyclist

A Local 89 Year Old's Lifetime of Commitment Article by Terry Knowles | Photography by Create Uplift Topekan Richard “Alex” Alexander has developed a rigid lifestyle that literally defies comprehension. At 89, Alex is pain free, devoid of any prescribed medicine, relies on a unique meatless diet, and adheres to a demanding workout routine. Alex cycles 18 miles-a-day (he is projected to complete over 6,200 miles for 2025). For Alex, every day begins promptly at 4:00am! The foundation of...

Professional Services

Sharp Cuts, Strong Roots

A new generation honors tradition while creating something entirely fresh. Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography For Pavin Cole, a single haircut shifted the trajectory of his life. When he was 19 years old, Pavin’s best friend, Greg, invited him to a barbershop in McPherson, Kansas. Until that moment, Pavin had never stepped foot inside a barbershop, nor did he fully understand what barbers really did. But as he sat in the chair at Fox and Ash Barbershop...

Auto + Marine

The Adventure Returns

The Toyota Land Cruiser is Back and Ready to Explore Any Terrain Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography The Toyota Land Cruiser is often featured in adventure television programs navigating dusty African roads or maneuvering through rainforests. Although the auto company discontinued the model in 2021, its cult following prompted them to reintroduce it. The 2025 version is a four-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle designed to take you anywhere, from rural gravel...

Arts + Culture

Clay Like Me

Trust in God's Plan Helped Evelyn Rocha Find Her Craft Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography Just inside the Milk & Honey Coffee Co. entrance is a vibrant display of Clay Like Me handmade earrings. Artist Evelyn Rocha spent the past four years honing her craft to produce her in-demand pieces. Fans flock to the online launches of her latest designs. Topeka City Lifestyle talked with Rocha about how her faith and family inspired her journey. Q: Have you always been...

Life + Culture

Women of Influence

Where Strength Meets Grace, and Vision Transforms our Community Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography Topeka is a city rich with remarkable women who lead, inspire, and uplift those around them. In this special Ladies’ issue of Topeka City Lifestyle Magazine , we celebrate the women who make a lasting impact on our community. Whether through business, philanthropy, advocacy, or leadership, these changemakers embody strength and generosity. Join us as we...

Shopping

Fun Fashion for All

Enjoy Exploring The Newest Feel-Good Styles at Apricot Lane Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Lindsey Wages/Wagers Photography Stepping into Apricot Lane Boutique is like a breath of fresh air. The bright, cheerful space is full of the latest fashions in styles for all ages. Need a breezy dress for a spring or summer wedding, graduation, or party? What about a wardrobe for a beach vacation? Perhaps you just want something fun to wear to work during warm weather? This boutique is the...