Salina Arts & Humanities is seeking proposals for security services at the 2026 Smoky Hill River Festival, scheduled for June 11–14, 2026, in Oakdale Park.
The River Festival is one of the largest events in Salina, drawing more than 60,000 people each year from as many as 35 states. Security services are contracted annually to help ensure the safety of festivalgoers, artists, vendors, staff, and volunteers.
According to the request for proposals, security responsibilities will include managing cash transfers between festival gates and headquarters, monitoring entry points for passes and wristbands, roving patrols throughout the park, and overnight security of festival grounds and vendor areas. Officers will also work with the Salina Police Department, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, and other local partners.
The contract is expected to require about 546 hours of security coverage between June 9 and June 15, 2026. The budget for the services is estimated between $15,000 and $20,000.
An informational meeting for interested providers will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Salina Arts & Humanities Community Room. Attendance is optional but recommended for new applicants.
Proposals must be submitted by Monday, November 3, 2025. A review panel will evaluate submissions in mid-November, with finalists to be notified by November 17. A final contract is expected to be awarded on or before December 15, 2025.
More information is available by contacting Salina Arts & Humanities at 785-309-5770.