The state on Hays

Driven by a fierce sense of collaboration, mutual respect and community service in the arts, the people of Hays have dedicated resources, leadership and old-fashioned people power to support the arts and develop arts-based partnerships that permeate the community.

For over 100 years, the arts have played an integral part in Hays. The Hays Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1914; the Hays Arts Council was formed in 1966, and the people of Hays have benefited from longtime cultural partnerships with Fort Hays State University.

Hays is host to a flourishing arts community that includes studios and galleries, exhibition spaces, arts-related businesses, a strings academy, multiple dance studios, gallery walks, public art, community concerts, cultural festivals, annual art competitions and more.

* Brenda Meder