There is nothing more magical than immersing yourself in the shimmering light fantasy experience at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! You and your family can visit through December 30th.
This Luminary Walk began wowing visitors in 1999 as a single-night event created by the passionate volunteers of the nonprofit group, Friends of the Arboretum (FOTA.) Their goal was to invite the community to experience the Arboretum in a new way during the winter season while raising funds to support its growth.
“The response was so positive that the event continued to expand, and today, it has grown into a seasonal tradition spanning more than 20 nights in the event schedule!” noted Brit Waye, Community Engagement Manager.
The event is organized by FOTA, a division of The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park and remains their largest annual fundraiser. Proceeds support their mission to preserve, enhance, and promote this community treasure. Over the years, funds from Luminary Walk and other “Friends” events like Terra Luna, Botanical Brewfest, and the Spring Plant Sale have helped make significant improvements to the Arboretum, including the Train Garden, two greenhouses, educational programs, and many garden enhancements. FOA is proud to have contributed $2.3 million toward the LongHouse Visitor Center.
“What began as a small community idea has grown into one of the region’s most cherished holiday traditions, and it continues to support the Arboretum’s long-term growth and impact,” she expressed.
This year, guests can choose from four unique ways to experience the Luminary Walk, each designed for different interests and accessibility needs, including the Traditional Luminary Walk on Weekends. This family-friendly experience includes everything from glowing candlelit paths in the quiet winter woods to festive colorful light displays in the Children’s Garden and Gnome and Fairy Villages. Families can enjoy photos with Santa, complimentary hot cider, and live musical performances stationed throughout the gardens with food and treats from Jack Stack Barbecue and Jack’s Kettle Corn.
The Adults-Only Candlelight Stroll will happen on select Thursdays is a friends-night-out or date-night evening for adults who want to enjoy the beauty of the lights in a more peaceful setting while enjoying wine and other adult drinks.
The Electric Glow will occur on Limited Capacity Nights for visitors desiring a low-sensory experience. It focuses solely on the electric light displays without additional programming or large crowds. This option is ideal for guests who prefer a calm environment.
December 1-3 are reserved for those with accessibility needs, with glow carts and such.
To enhance the mood, a magical lineup of live entertainment will perform during Traditional Luminary Walk weekends and the Adults-Only Candlelight Stroll evenings, including classical ensembles, opera, jazz, Celtic folk, world music, acoustic favorites, holiday carolers, barbershop quartets, big band swing, and local choirs.
Guests this year can bring a piece of this magical experience home. As it will be the final year to experience the magic of their whimsical, beloved Gnome and Fairy Villages, each handcrafted from natural materials collected at the Arboretum will be available for purchase. They can be picked up after the display closes in February. Proceeds will directly support future improvements at the Arboretum through FOA fundraising.
“It is a wonderful way for the community to enjoy a piece of Luminary Walk history while giving back to the gardens we all love,” she smiled. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate with us.”
Tickets can be purchased online at opabg.org. Friends of the Arboretum Members receive discounts on ticket purchases.