Mark your calendars; Your OP Event Guide for August 2024

A crowd enjoys live music at the Thompson Park stage while others dance.

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
Spend Wednesday and 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
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.

Plein Air Show
August 7-September 22
The exhibit captures the beauty of landscape paintings created in the open air throughout the Kansas City area.

Pollination Investigation
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. 

Thursday, August 1

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.

Saturday, August 3

Mud Art Making Class – 9:30 a.m.
In this hands-on class at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, children will explore the wonders of mud as a medium for artistic expression. They’ll use their hands, sticks, and natural materials found in the environment to paint, sculpt, and create unique mud artworks inspired by the beauty of nature. Register online in advance.

Sunday, August 4

Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Learn beginning stained glass techniques with lead-free solder and flux. 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. 

Monday, August 5

Neighborhood Executive Committee Officers Board – 5:30 p.m.
The Neighborhood Executive Committee develops and monitors the progress of the neighborhood programs.

City Council – 7:30 p.m.
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, August 6

City Branding Pop-Up – 9-11 a.m.
The City of Overland Park is in the early stages of updating its brand. To research existing attitudes, thoughts and feelings toward the brand, the City is hosting pop-up events at various locations. Join us at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens on Tuesday, August 6 from 9-11 a.m. to provide your feedback!

Discovery Day at the Arboretum – 9 a.m.-noon
Craft time awaits on the first Tuesday of the month at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. 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 to the first 100 participants. 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! The theme for August’s Discovery Day is Hanging Nature Looms.

Bluejacket Pool Final Splash Bash – 5-7 p.m.
Bluejacket Pool will permanently close on August 6, at the end of the 2024 outdoor pool season. To commemorate Bluejacket Pool’s service to the community, the City will hold a Final Splash Bash on August 6 from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature pool games, music, treats and more. Admission will be free.

National Night Out – 5-7 p.m.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes positive community policing partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Meet with your Overland Park Police Department officers and City staff. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy hot dogs, snacks and refreshments.

Wednesday, August 7

City Brading Pop-Up – 10 a.m.-noon
The City of Overland Park is in the early stages of updating its brand. To research existing attitudes, thoughts and feelings toward the brand, the City is hosting pop-up events at various locations. Join us at Roe Park on Wednesday, August 7 from 10 a.m.-noon to provide your feedback!

Giggle Time Children’s Program – 10 a.m.
Get ready for another fantastic Giggle Time Children’s Program, featuring the incredible antics of The Doo-Dads! Join us at Roe Park for a lively and entertaining experience that will have your little ones giggling and grooving. The Doo-Dads bring a unique blend of kid-cool rock ‘n’ roll with interactive fun that’s sure to captivate children of all ages. 

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. 

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, August 8

Nature Storytime – 10:30 a.m.
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. Registration and caregiver presence is required.

Environmental Advisory Council – 6 p.m.
The Environmental Advisory Council studies environmental issues while supporting and promoting new and existing programs and developing educational programs that are beneficial to individuals and businesses in our community with respect to environmental issues. This council meets on the second Thursday at 6 p.m.

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. 

Concerts in the Park: The Stolen Winnebagos – 7 p.m.
Off the Record and The Stolen Winnebagos will bring the concert series to a rip-roaring end on Thursday, August 8. Off the Record is a dynamic showband performing hits from the 50s-80s, and The Stolen Winnebagos will entertain with a little bit of everything – from classic rock and new wave to grunge, hip hop and country. Come early to enjoy Downtown Overland Park’s Party in the Park with yard games and family-friendly activities from 5-7 p.m. Concert in the Park is a free summer concert series at the Thompson Park stage. Listen to some of your favorite songs under the stars after spending a summer day in Downtown Overland Park.

Environmental Advisory Council Officers Board – 8 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Officers Board is to be held at 8:00 p.m. in Conference Room 2 of the Myron Scafe Building, 8500 Antioch, Overland Park, KS. The purpose of the Officers Board Meeting is to plan the agenda.

Friday, August 9

Construction Debris Drop-Off – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Disposing of old decking, fencing, lumber, railroad ties and other construction and demolition debris can be difficult. We can take some of those items off your hands. Stop by the Construction Debris Drop-Off event at ​​the Blue Valley Switzer District Activity Complex, 13310 Switzer Road. Learn more about the event, including a list of accepted items at opkansas.org/constructiondebris

Bietigheim-Bissingen Park Groundbreaking – 9 a.m.
Shovels hit the dirt on Friday, August 9 at 9 a.m. for the groundbreaking ceremony of Bietigheim-Bissingen Park, a new City park at 159th and Quivira. The park is named in honor of Overland Park’s sister city in Germany. The event will feature a short ceremony with remarks from Mayor Curt Skoog. We are excited to have a “portal” to Germany at the groundbreaking, with representatives from Bietigheim-Bissingen participating, including Mayor Jürgen Kessing and artist Dieter Kränzlein, who is creating artwork for the park, attending virtually. B-B Park will incorporate architectural and cultural inspirations from our sister city, strengthening the cultural and educational ties established over the past 20 years. Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2024. If you plan to join us for the ceremony, please walk or bike, as parking is limited in the neighborhood behind the park.

Saturday, August 10

Construction Debris Drop-Off – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Disposing of old decking, fencing, lumber, railroad ties and other construction and demolition debris can be difficult. We can take some of those items off your hands. Stop by the Construction Debris Drop-Off event at ​​the Blue Valley Switzer District Activity Complex, 13310 Switzer Road. Learn more about the event, including a list of accepted items at opkansas.org/constructiondebris

Large Appliance Recycling + Shredding Event – 9 a.m.-noon
Visitors can drop off large appliances (refrigerators, ovens, dehumidifiers, dryers, etc.) and documents for shredding. Electronics and small appliances like TVs, computers and microwaves will not be accepted and can be taken to some of our other events. A donation of $5 per file box of documents is suggested but not required. Documents are shredded on-site at the event. No residency requirement. This event is open to everyone!

Tree Poetry – 9:30 a.m.
In this dynamic poetry class at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, students will journey through the enchanting world of verse. To put theory into practice, students will be equipped with the tools to create their own “Poem Trees.” These artistic displays will visually represent the elements of their poems, rooted in the foundations of stanzas and line breaks. Each tree will be a living testament to their newfound knowledge.

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, August 11

Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging 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, August 12

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.

Wednesday, August 14

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 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, August 15

Goat Yoga – 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Get ready for some nature-infused yoga fun with baby goats at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead! Each session combines relaxing yoga poses with the mischievous presence of our goat pals who may decide to photobomb your warrior pose. Certified fitness instructors guide 45 minutes of yoga instruction and 15 minutes of goat socialization. Purchase tickets online in advance.

Sunday, August 18

Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Learn beginning stained glass techniques with lead-free solder and flux. 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. 

Monday, August 19

Plan Your Park: Marty Park – 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Help us shape the future of Marty Park! Find out which features your community chose as their favorites and learn more about park amenities and orientation ideas. Visit with Parks staff and provide your feedback at the Overland Park Christian Church, located at 7600 W. 75th St.

City Council – 7:30 p.m.
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.

Wednesday, August 21

Jiggle, Giggle, Jump with Storyteller Rosie Best-Cutrer – 10 a.m.
This engaging event features storyteller Rosie Best-Cutrer, who will captivate you with her delightful songs and enchanting tales. Expect whimsical stories about runaway cakes, wiggly spiders and adventurous thumbs that love to travel. Rosie combines her theatrical background and 23 years of teaching experience to create an interactive experience filled with music and audience participation.

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. 

CDBG Advisory Committee – 6:30 p.m.
The Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee develops recommendations for use of Community Development Block Grant funds, a flexible program that provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community development needs. The CDBG Advisory Committee meets at the Myron E. Scafe building.

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, August 22

Nature Storytime – 10:30 a.m.
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. Registration and caregiver presence is required.

CDBG Advisory Committee – 6:30 p.m.
The Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee develops recommendations for use of Community Development Block Grant funds, a flexible program that provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community development needs. The CDBG Advisory Committee meets at the Myron E. Scafe building.

Friday, August 23

Summer Movie Nights at the Arboretum: “The Goonies” – 7 p.m.
Get ready for an epic summer at the Arboretum with our newest event, Summer Movie Nights! Gates open at 7 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk (around 8 p.m.). Bring your lawn chair or blanket!

Saturday, August 24

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.

Moo-vie Night at the Farmstead: “A Bug’s Life” – 5-10 p.m.
We’re celebrating all things dairy at MOO-vie Night, with presenting sponsor Hiland Dairy. Bring your blanket and head to the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead lawn for a free outdoor screening of “A Bug’s Life” under the stars. Dive into Farmstead fun before the MOO-vie starts at dusk, around 8 p.m. It’s a dairy delight you won’t want to miss!

Sunday, August 25

Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging 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.

Tuesday, August 27

Parks + Recreation Advisory Council
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.

Wednesday, August 28

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, August 29

Biergarten Thursdays – 6 p.m.
Enjoy samplings of brews and appetizers at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Biergarten Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m. August 29 will feature Torn Label Brewing Co., POG Brewing Company and KC Pretzel Boys. Register online at the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.

Saturday, August 31

Discovering Nature Through Botanical Watercolor – 10 a.m.
Join us for an exciting workshop 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 experience levels.