One of Overland Park’s most beloved fundraisers will arrive a little earlier next year. Stems: A Garden Soirée, the signature event supporting the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens and Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, will move to May in 2026, giving guests the chance to celebrate while the gardens are at their springtime peak.
Organizers say the shift better aligns the event with the natural beauty of the season. Late spring at the Arboretum brings vibrant color, fresh blooms, and comfortable evening temperatures. Guests can wander the garden paths with a drink in hand, enjoy live music, and sample dishes from local restaurants while surrounded by flowers and greenery.
The earlier date also helps the event stand apart from a busy summer calendar. With the region preparing to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the Kansas City metro, organizers say “blooming early” allows Stems to shine before the area’s large summer events begin.
The gardens themselves will provide a spectacular backdrop. Beds of colorful annuals like snapdragons, pansies, osteospermum, dianthus, and calendula will be in bloom, along with spring bulbs including alliums, late tulips, and daffodils. If the season cooperates, guests may also spot pink peonies near Margaret’s Pond and bright red poppies in the Arboretum’s Monet Garden. Early summer perennials such as salvia, catmint, and baptisia will add texture and layers of color throughout the landscape.
While many favorite traditions remain, a few new experiences will debut in 2026. A large main stage returns to the gardens with a lively performance from Funk Syndicate, while a fashion sketch artist will capture guests’ garden party outfits as one-of-a-kind keepsakes.
Another guest favorite is also returning: hand-painted souvenir wine glasses. This year, 15 local artists will create designs ranging from butterflies and wildflowers to colorful abstract patterns, allowing guests to choose a glass that reflects their style and carry it throughout the evening.
New this year, a silent auction will feature experience-based items connected to community spaces. Guests can bid on photography sessions at the Arboretum or the Farmstead, or even take home a complete set of the collectible Stems glasses.
Food and drink remain central to the experience. Restaurants from across the Kansas City metro will offer tasting bites designed for an evening in the gardens. Participating favorites include Bo Lings, JINYA Ramen Bar, Zephyr Bourbon Bar + Kitchen, and Taco Naco KC, along with newcomer Tiki Taco. Guests can expect everything from savory street tacos and crispy beef to sweet desserts.
Entertainment will be woven throughout the gardens with additional bands, roaming performers, balloon artists, and tarot readings. The evening concludes with a fireworks display over the illuminated landscape.
Stems is the signature fundraiser for the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Foundation, supporting projects and programming at both the Arboretum and Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Proceeds help sustain the partnerships, fundraising efforts, and behind-the-scenes work that bring educational programs, garden enhancements, and community experiences to life.
Stems is a 21+ event. Tickets are available at stemssoiree.org, with early bird pricing through April 1.