Country Stampede, other music events coming after Wichita-area venue inks a deal

Country Stampede Kansas and other music events are headed to a venue in the Wichita suburbs after a new partnership that will nearly double the capacity of this year’s country music festival venue in Bonner Springs, according to Kustom Entertainment, the entertainment and music festival company.

A multiyear agreement between Kustom Entertainment and Gilley’s Gambling Hall calls for the venue, on the site of the former dog track behind Gilley’s in Park City, to host 20 show days next year, according to Kustom Entertainment. That location can host as many as 35,000 people. The 2027 Country Stampede Kansas event is scheduled for June 25-27 in Park City. The 2026 event is set for later this month in Bonner Springs.

In total, Kustom Entertainment and Gilley’s will partner for show dates and festivals next year offering a range of musical styles, according to Matt Tholen, vice president of operations for Kustom 440, the production side of Kustom Entertainment. Tholen spoke to The Eagle by phone Monday morning.

“They’ll be all different genres,” Tholen said. “We are literally looking at all genres. Obviously country, but we’ll potentially be bringing in EDM (electronic dance music), rock shows, possibly jazz. There’s nothing out of the picture.”

Kustom Entertainment’s first event in partnership with Gilley’s will be this fall, Tholen said. He said it will be at least a Friday and Saturday event. Kustom 440 is still lining up artists and Tholen said on June 8 that it was not ready to announce the genre or artists.

“As soon as we get artist confirmations we’ll start the advertising,” Tholen said.

The move to Gilley’s will allow Kustom Entertainment to expand the festival experience with larger crowds, camping, food and beverage options, and other on-site amenities, including more premium fan experiences, according to a statement from Kustom Entertainment.

Phil Ruffin, owner of Gilley’s Gambling Hall, said in a statement that he is excited about the partnership and the long-term opportunity it creates.

“Country Stampede and Gilley’s share a strong connection through country music and live entertainment,” said Ruffin. “Our country and western atmosphere, guest experience, and hospitality make Gilley’s an ideal setting for this iconic event. We are honored to partner with Country Stampede as it begins its next chapter in Park City.”

The partnership between Kustom Entertainment and Gilley’s will boost the local economy, Park City City Administrator Sean Fox said in the statement.

“This partnership aligns perfectly with Park City’s continued commitment to promoting tourism and bringing high-caliber amenities and entertainment to the city and the south-central Kansas region,” Fox said. “Large weekend events like this create real value for our community through hotel stays, restaurant visits, fuel stops, retail traffic, rideshare use, and opportunities for local vendors.”