Fall colors, locally crafted drinks and an afternoon spent exploring the gardens come together at this year’s Botanical Brewfest, returning to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens on Saturday, October 17.
Presented by Friends of the Arboretum, the event invites guests to sample beverages from approximately 20 breweries and vendors while enjoying one of the area’s most scenic fall settings. This year, organizers are placing an even greater emphasis on the region’s local microbreweries.
Among the anticipated participants is Big Grove Brewery, a recent addition to the Kansas City area. KC Bier Co. will also join the festivities as it prepares to open its new Lenexa location. Vine Street Brewing, Kansas City’s first Black-owned brewery, is another highlight of this year’s lineup.
The late-afternoon event gives guests the opportunity to wander the Arboretum’s gardens, take in the changing leaves and enjoy unlimited beverage samples along the way. Each $65 admission includes a souvenir sampling glass, a wearable koozie necklace, WildSide pretzels, Jack’s Kettle Korn, Donutology donuts and event entertainment.
Guests looking for something more substantial can purchase food from Don Rudy’s Quesabirrias KC and K&C Concessions. With quesabirrias, kettle corn and craft beer all in one place, showing up hungry may be the most strategic move of the day.
Beyond offering a memorable fall outing, Botanical Brewfest raises funds for the gardens and grounds. Proceeds allow Friends of the Arboretum, a nonprofit fundraising arm of The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park, to support educational opportunities, conservation efforts, capital improvements and other enhancements throughout the Arboretum.
Tickets are limited and can be purchased at artsandrec-op.org. Friends of the Arboretum members receive $5 off admission.
Botanical Brewfest is open only to guests ages 21 and older, and IDs will be checked at the entrance. The event will be held rain or shine as long as conditions remain safe. Parking at the Arboretum is free, and ridesharing is strongly encouraged. Guests who need to leave their vehicles overnight after enjoying the samples can do so without worrying about being towed.
With local pours, seasonal snacks and the Arboretum’s fall landscape as its backdrop, Botanical Brewfest offers a distinctly Kansas City way to toast the season.