Fill your schedule with exciting events happening in Overland Park! From family fun and creative workshops to Governing Body and committee meetings, the City’s event calendar is packed with endless opportunities to get involved in your community and make memories with friends and family:
Farmers’ Market – Saturdays from 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Spend Saturday mornings browsing aisles of fresh produce, meats, cheeses and specialty products at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market. The Farmers’ Market operates from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Art at the Center is a unique, not-for-profit gallery space featuring exhibitions from local artists. The gallery is free and open every day at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center.
Now-June 2: “Ethnic Encounters” by Hamama Tul Bushra
Love pollinators? So do we! That’s why we invited the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and Smithsonian Gardens to share their exhibit, “Pollination Investigation,” with us. The exhibit is on display at the LongHouse Visitor Center at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens daily through November.
Wednesday, May 1
Giggle Time Children’s Program – 10 a.m.
Join us for a delightful children’s program on the first Wednesday of the month. Your little ones will giggle, wiggle and have a blast with diverse performances. From music and stories to puppet shows, each month features new and exciting entertainers. Giggle Time on May 1 features Storyteller Rosemary Cutrer at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center.
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Arboretum New Volunteer Orientation – 5:30 p.m.
This event is for new Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens volunteers wishing to serve regularly. We will discuss all volunteer opportunities and collect any required paperwork. Discover volunteer opportunities at opkansas.org.
Independent Citizen Advisory Board for Racial Profiling and Non-Biased Policing – 6:30 p.m.
The Independent Citizen Advisory Board for Racial Profiling and Non-Biased Policing advises and assists in policy development, education and community outreach and communications related to racial profiling and other non-biased policing efforts of the Overland Park Police Department. The board meets quarterly at Sanders Justice Center.
Community Development Committee – 7 p.m.
Community Development Committee meetings are held every first Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 2
Legacy of Greenery Committee – 6:30 p.m.
The Legacy of Greenery Committee develops strategies to increase, preserve and enhance the city’s tree canopy by promoting, planting and maintaining trees and shrubs in the city. The Legacy of Greenery Committee meets at City Hall on the first Thursday of every month.
Read, exercise, and converse with other book lovers at Matt Ross Community Center’s monthly book club. Meet other avid readers to discuss a predetermined book. This group meets on the first Thursday of the month.
Saturday, May 4
Join our expert volunteers and avid bird enthusiasts at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for an immersive bird-watching expedition through the lush landscapes of the Arboretum. With nearly 100 distinct bird species documented in this verdant sanctuary, the experience promises an array of sightings to delight and inspire.
Discovering Nature through Botanical Watercolor – 10 a.m.
Join us for an exciting workshop at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens where you’ll learn the fundamentals of sketching and watercolor painting in a relaxed and supportive environment. In this session, we’ll focus on capturing the beauty of simple natural subjects such as flowers or plants. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, this workshop is designed to cater to all levels of experience. Please register online.
Sunday, May 5
Join us for an incredible journey through enchanting woodland trails at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens as we uncover the breathtaking beauty of our native wildflowers. With an astonishing 140 acres of woodlands boasting tens of thousands of woodland wildflowers, prepare to be awe-inspired at every turn.
Kite Fest on the Prairie – 10 a.m.
New location for Kite Fest
Due to wet and muddy conditions on the prairie from recent storms, Kite Fest on the Prairie is moving to the west overflow parking lot just outside of the Arboretum. Admission to Kite Fest is FREE. We’ll still have kites available for purchase, and we’ve got you covered with restrooms conveniently located in the LongHouse Visitor Center. Join us for a day filled with kite flying, delicious treats from the Polar Ice food truck and an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors.
Safety first
If lightning occurs, we may have to cancel for everyone’s safety.
Soar into the sky and let your spirits fly high at Kite Fest at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! Join us for a breezy day of colorful kites, uplifting views and a wind-sational experience amidst the beautiful wildflowers of the Arboretum’s prairie. Don’t forget your kite, water bottle, bug spray and lawn chairs or picnic blankets for a day of fun, friends and family. Kites will be available for purchase. Picnics are welcome, and Polar Oasis will be selling sweet treats. This event is free with Arboretum admission.
Monday, May 6
Mayor and Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in the council chamber.
Tuesday, May 7
Discovery Day at the Arboretum – 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Craft time awaits on the first Tuesday of the month at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Little explorers are in for a treat as they immerse themselves in the enchanting world of nature and creativity. Each month, a new make-and-take project unfolds on Discovery Day. Crafting supplies are included, and the projects are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. The first Tuesday of the month also happens to be Free Admission Day at the Arboretum, so entry into the gardens and this project are all free!
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30 p.m.
Following a major disaster, first responders may not be able to meet the demand for fire and medical services. Overland Park’s emergency management division provides Community Emergency Response Team training to give neighbors the ability to help one another and meet immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs. This training session is currently full. Visit the CERT Training page for more information on future sessions.
Wednesday, May 8
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
79th Street Corridor Plan Study Open House – 4-6 p.m.
The City is taking the final step before drafting a plan for the 79th Street Corridor study. Held at Matt Ross Community Center, the open house will be an opportunity to view draft recommendations for the corridor based on two rounds of public engagement and share comments before the plan is finalized.
Public Safety Committee – 7 p.m.
Public Safety Committee meetings are held every second Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 9
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors with Nature Storytime at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, presented by Stepping Stones KC. Join us for a delightful blend of music, movement, and adventure as we explore the wonders of nature. These gatherings are targeted toward little nature lovers, ages 1-6. Caregivers and siblings need only pay admission to the Arboretum. Registration and caregiver presence is required.
Environmental Advisory Council – 6 p.m.
The Environmental Advisory Council studies environmental issues of the city, supporting and promoting existing and new programs for environmental awareness, solid waste management, and more. This council meets on the second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
Environmental Advisory Council Officers Board – 8 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Environmental Advisory Council Officers Board is to be held at 8 p.m. in Conference Room 2 of the Myron Scafe Building, 8500 Antioch. The purpose of the Officers Board Meeting is to plan the agenda.
Saturday, May 11
Join our expert volunteers and avid bird enthusiasts at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for an immersive bird-watching expedition through the lush landscapes of the Arboretum. With nearly 100 distinct bird species documented in this verdant sanctuary, the experience promises an array of sightings to delight and inspire.
Monday, May 13
Ordinance Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Ordinance Review Committee reviews ordinance amendment proposals with staff before consideration by the full commission. Ordinance amendments may be proposed by the City Council, the Planning Commission or City staff.
Planning Commission – 1:30 p.m.
The Planning Commission considers all applications for final development plans and plats, holds public hearings and makes recommendations for final action to the Governing Body for rezoning, special use permits and preliminary development plans. It also prepares the Comprehensive Plan and reviews the Capital Improvements Program. Planning Commission meetings are held the second Monday of every month at City Hall in the Council Chamber.
Tuesday, May 14
Neighborhood Executive Committee – 6 p.m.
The Neighborhood Executive Committee develops and monitors the progress of the neighborhood conservation program, which helps preserve and enhance neighborhoods by promoting community-building by supporting voluntary neighborhood groups and associations, providing a forum for communication between neighbors, residents and City Hall, developing community leadership and advocating for the needs of neighborhood organizations.
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30 p.m.
Following a major disaster, first responders may not be able to meet the demand for fire and medical services. Overland Park’s emergency management division provides Community Emergency Response Team training to give neighbors the ability to help one another and meet immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs. This training session is currently full. Visit the CERT Training page for more information on future sessions.
Board of Zoning Appeals – 7 p.m.
The Board of Zoning Appeals considers requests for relief from the requirements of the zoning ordinance and meets monthly, generally on the second Tuesday. The Board of Zoning Appeals meets at City Hall.
Wednesday, May 15
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Finance, Administration + Economic Development Committee – 7 p.m.
Finance, Administration and Economic Development Committee business generally includes council rules, procedures and protocol, administrative services, finance, human resources, information technology and more. This committee meets on the third Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 16
Wine Tasting on the Terrace – 6 p.m.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy wine and food samples from local vendors while surrounded by the beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Book your tickets to Wine Tasting on the Terrace hosted by the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Overland Park Orchestra Concert – 7 p.m.
The Overland Park Orchestra is a volunteer orchestra sponsored in part by the City of Overland Park. Join us on a musical journey as the Overland Park Orchestra enchants audiences of all ages with pop and symphonic favorites at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center.
Saturday, May 18
The Sketchbook Habit: Sowing Seeds of Creativity – 10 a.m.
Designed for beginners and seasoned artists alike, this series at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens focuses on cultivating the essential habit of maintaining a visual journal through sketchbook keeping. Build your skills by attending each session, or select fewer sessions as your schedule allows. Please register online.
Sunday, May 19
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass bird at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Learn beginning stained glass techniques with lead-free solder and flux. Supplies will be provided. Class size is limited. Due to the nature of working with a soldering iron and chemicals, this workshop is for adults 18 and older. Protective gloves, masks and eyewear will be worn. Please wear an apron or a long-sleeved shirt. Tara from Lost and Found Design will be teaching this workshop.
Monday, May 20
Mayor and Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in the council chamber.
Tuesday, May 21
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30 p.m.
Following a major disaster, first responders may not be able to meet the demand for fire and medical services. Overland Park’s emergency management division provides Community Emergency Response Team training to give neighbors the ability to help one another and meet immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs. This training session is currently full. Visit the CERT Training page for more information on future sessions.
Wednesday, May 22
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Public Works Committee – 7 p.m.
Public Works Committee business generally includes streets and highways, public works facilities, traffic signals and signs, infrastructure planning, right of way management, sidewalks and bikeways, public transportation, stormwater management and traffic management systems. Public Works Committee meetings are held every fourth Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, May 23
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors with Nature Storytime at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, presented by Stepping Stones KC. Join us for a delightful blend of music, movement, and adventure as we explore the wonders of nature. These gatherings are targeted toward little nature lovers, ages 1-6. Caregivers and siblings need only pay admission to the Arboretum. Registration and caregiver presence is required.
Monday, May 27
City offices, including City Hall and Sanders Justice Center, will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday.
Tuesday, May 28
Parks + Recreation Advisory Council – 6:30 p.m.
The Parks & Recreation Advisory Council advises and makes recommendations to the Governing Body and staff on residential parks and recreational needs and wants. It meets the last Tuesday of every month at City Hall.
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30 p.m.
Following a major disaster, first responders may not be able to meet the demand for fire and medical services. Overland Park’s emergency management division provides Community Emergency Response Team training to give neighbors the ability to help one another and meet immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs. This training session is currently full. Visit the CERT Training page for more information on future sessions.
Wednesday, May 29
Site Plan Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Site Plan Review Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Commission on matters relating to site planning and architectural details of development proposals. Items may be recommended for committee review by the City Council, the Planning Commission or city staff. The Site Plan Review Committee meets at City Hall.
Thursday, May 30
Open House: 77th Street and Metcalf Traffic Signal Project – 5:30-7 p.m.
The City of Overland Park will conduct its first public meeting regarding intersection improvements at 77th Street and Metcalf Avenue, including constructing northbound and southbound left turn lanes and a new traffic signal at the intersection. This meeting has been scheduled to review the preliminary improvement plans prepared for this project. The open house public meeting will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street.
Enjoy samplings of brews and appetizers at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Biergarten Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m. May 30 will feature Cindery Block Brewery, Free State Brewery, The Rub BBQ and KC Pretzel Boys. Register online at the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Friday, May 31
Join the gnomes, fairies, goblins and sprites at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Wear your most enchanting costume and enjoy treats, entertainment, photo opportunities and merriment for the whole family.