As summer winds down, the fun in Overland Park is just heating up! September is packed with exciting events and activities for everyone. From vibrant community festivals and live concerts to farmers’ markets and family-friendly activities, there are countless ways to get out and enjoy the season. Dive into our September calendar and start planning your month!
Walk and Read at Thompson Park
Get ready for an outdoor adventure that’s part storytime, part exercise and full-on fun when Thompson Park transforms into a storybook trail featuring “Wild Blue” and “Everyone Can Learn to Ride a Bicycle.” Bring the whole family to read page-by-page as you walk through the park, soaking up the fresh air, enjoying movement and maybe even feeling inspired to hop on a bike yourself. It’s the perfect way to mix reading, your step count and family time. The paths are stroller and wheelchair friendly. Presented in partnership with Johnson County Library and available Aug. 30-Sept. 7 during park operating hours.
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. The 2025 market season operates at Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street, to allow for the construction of the Clock Tower Landing.
Visit “The Winding Road” art exhibit by Donna Teager at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. Yeager’s work invites you on a visual journey shaped by memory, movement and quiet transformation. Known for her range of subjects and mediums, she captures the beauty in life’s often-overlooked moments. Each piece reflects people, places and the passage of time. You can view this exhibit any time Tomahawk Ridge Community Center is open.
Plein Air Exhibit at LongHouse Community Art Gallery – Daily
Step into the beauty of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens through the eyes of local artists. This exhibit showcases the stunning pieces created during the Arboretum’s recent plein air painting event, where nearly 30 participants captured the gardens, woodlands and ponds on a perfect summer evening. The winning works by Alexis Jones and Corbin Rainbolt are featured alongside a variety of interpretations of the Arboretum’s landscapes by other talented artists. The art show is free to attend, now through Oct. 31. Admission is required to enter the gardens.
Monday, September 1
As you spend time with family and friends over the extended weekend, please plan around closures and modified hours at City facilities on Monday, September 1. While City offices are closed, residents can access information and services, pay fees or report issues using the City’s online platforms.
Labor Day Fit Fest – 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Get a three-in-one workout punch at Matt Ross Community Center this Labor Day with an energizing trio of classes: Cycle, Body Shaper and PiYo. Led by Instructor Rosemarie, each class is a power-packed 45 minutes of fun and exercise.
- 8:30 a.m. Cycle: This cardio workout on a stationary bike is a big calorie burn with fun interaction between the instructor and participants.
- 9:30 a.m. Body Shaper: This conditioning class uses free weights, resistance tubing, body bars, and BOSUs with a bit more intensity.
- 10:30 a.m. PiYo: This low-impact workout blends Pilates and Yoga for a total mind-body workout.
Limited spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can still participate in Body Shaper and PiYo if the Cycle class is full. Fit Fest is free for Matt Ross Community Center group exercise members or $5/$6 with a group exercise day pass.
Tuesday, September 2
Discovery Day at the Arboretum – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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 September is “Clay Nature Faces.”
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30-9:30 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Wednesday, September 3
Giggle Time Children’s Program – 10 a.m.
Join us for a delightful children’s program on the first Wednesday of the month. From music and stories to puppet shows, Giggle Time features new and exciting entertainers. Come and join in the laughter and joy at this free event at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center!
Community Development Committee – 7 p.m.
Community Development Committee meetings are held the first Wednesday of every month at City Hall in Conference Room 1.
Thursday, September 4
Music Nights at the Arboretum: Time Bandits KC – 5 p.m.
Spend your summer evenings surrounded by nature and live music at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! Enjoy extended hours in the gardens while soaking in the sounds of incredible live bands playing for two hours. Café Celeste will be open, serving up delicious food and refreshing drinks. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for unique finds! Grab a drink, find your perfect spot, and let the music set the tone for an unforgettable night under the stars!
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, September 6
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Sunday, September 7
The Pawpaw Walk program at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers a unique blend of guided nature exploration and educational discovery, centered around the fascinating pawpaw tree. You’ll embark on an immersive adventure through the Arboretum’s lush forests where pawpaws thrive. Learn about the botany, ecology and cultural heritage of these remarkable trees as you hike through their natural habitat.
Monday, September 8
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.
Civil Service Commission – 6 p.m.
The Civil Service Commission reviews, approves and assists the police department in the promotion process for officers below the rank of Captain. Meetings of the civil service commission are open to the public and meet on the second Monday of the last month each quarter at 6 p.m. at Sanders Justice Center.
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, September 9
Neighborhood Executive Committee – 6 p.m.
The Neighborhood Executive Committee develops and monitors the progress of the neighborhood programs.
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30-9:30 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
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, September 10
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, September 11
9/11 Memorial Ceremony – 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Join us in a solemn remembrance as we honor the memory of those we lost in the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The Overland Park Fire and Police Honor Guards will conduct their annual service at the 9/11 Memorial on Thursday, Sept. 11, starting at 7:30 a.m. outside of the Overland Park Fire Training Center. Visitors are welcome to come and go as they please, reflecting upon this significant day in our history. The 9/11 Memorial light display will remain on all night Sept. 10 and 11. These two light beams symbolize the Twin Towers and emulate the display at Ground Zero. Learn more about the memorial here.
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 designed for young nature lovers, ages 1-6. Registration and caregiver presence are required.
Environmental Advisory Council – 6 p.m.
The Environmental Advisory Council studies environmental issues while supporting and promoting new and existing programs, as well as developing educational initiatives that benefit individuals and businesses in our community with respect to environmental concerns. This council meets on the second Thursday at 6 p.m.
Terra Luna (Adults-Only Night) – 7-10 p.m.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. Thursday, September 19 will be an adults-only night for this event.
Environmental Advisory Council Officers Board – 8 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Officers Board is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. in Conference Room 2 of the Myron Scafe Building, located at 8500 Antioch, Overland Park, KS. The purpose of the Officers Board Meeting is to plan the agenda.
Friday, September 12
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Saturday, September 13
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Homeowners Association Board Leaders Certificate Program – 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
We’re partnering with CAI Heartland to offer a one-day Homeowners Association Board Leader Certification course at the Overland Park Fire Training Center. Whether you’re stepping into an HOA role or already in one, we’ll help you strengthen communication, enforce rules fairly and better support your community.
Large Appliance Recycling + Shredding Event – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Visitors can drop off large appliances (refrigerators, ovens, dehumidifiers, dryers, etc.) for no cost. Documents for shredding will also be accepted for a suggested donation of $5 per box. Documents will be shredded on-site. Electronics and small appliances like TVs, computers and microwaves will not be accepted and can be taken to some of our other events. No residency requirement. This event is open to everyone! Don’t want to wait for this event or the date does not work for you? Large appliances can be taken year-round to the Recycling Center to be recycled as scrap metal. No appliances containing Freon or other refrigerants, whether drained or not, such as refrigerators, will be accepted at the Recycling Center.
Birding WildLands Walk – 9:15 a.m.
Join Kansas City WildLands on a two-hour interpretive birding walk emphasizing how the ecosystems at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens support healthy bird populations, both migratory and resident. Bring your binoculars and wear comfy closed-toe shoes! Enhance your viewing experience by bringing along bug repellent and binoculars. Gather at the Arboretum Pavilion to embark on this enthralling journey into the avian realm.
Movie Night at the Farmstead: “Finding Dory” – 5-10 p.m.
Bring your blanket and join us on the lawn and enjoy the free showing of the movie “Finding Dory” on the big screen. Come early and enjoy the Farmstead and other fun activities before the movie begins. The movie will begin at dusk (approx. 8 p.m.). Sponsored by Goldfish Swim School.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Monday, September 15
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, September 16
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30-9:30 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Thursday, September 18
Public Information Meeting: Storm Drainage Improvements, 99th to 97th Terrace – 5:30-6:30 p.m.
At this informational meeting, we will discuss the Storm Drainage Improvement Project, 99th Terrace to 97th Terrace. This project is a continuation of a previous storm drainage improvement project. It will alleviate street and structure flooding and includes the replacement of the existing ditch liner, road, storm sewer improvements and relocation of several utilities. The improvements will be from 99th Terrace to 97th Terrace between Knox Drive and Connell Drive.
Terra Luna (Adults-Only Night) – 7-10 p.m.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. Thursday, September 19 will be an adults-only night for this event.
Friday, September 19
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Saturday, September 20
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Briding WildLands Walk – 9:15 a.m.
Join Kansas City WildLands on a two-hour interpretive birding walk emphasizing how the ecosystems at the Arboretum support healthy bird populations, both migratory and resident. Bring your binoculars and wear comfy closed-toe shoes! Enhance your viewing experience by bringing along bug repellent and binoculars. Gather at the Arboretum Pavilion to embark on this enthralling journey into the avian realm.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique, immersive journey through the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens featuring Quixotic performers, courtesy of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Sunday, September 21
The Pawpaw Walk program at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers a unique blend of guided nature exploration and educational discovery, centered around the fascinating pawpaw tree. You’ll embark on an immersive adventure through the Arboretum’s lush forests where pawpaws thrive. Learn about the botany, ecology and cultural heritage of these remarkable trees as you hike through their natural habitat.
Tuesday, September 23
Community Emergency Response Team Training – 6:30-9:30 p.m.
CERT empowers residents to help themselves and their neighbors with essential lifesaving and life-sustaining needs during disasters. This seven-unit course requires full attendance and will meet on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from September 2-23. All classes will take place at the Overland Park Fire Training Center, located at 12401 Hemlock Street. The training is open to anyone 18 or older and will conclude with a disaster simulation.
Thursday, September 25
Arboretum New Volunteer Orientation – 10 a.m.
This is for new volunteers wishing to serve on a regular basis. We will discuss all volunteer opportunities, collect the required paperwork and introduce you to the Arboretum!
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 designed for young nature lovers, ages 1-6. Registration and caregiver presence is required.
Enjoy samplings of brews and appetizers at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Biergarten on Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m. Register online at the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
CDBG Advisory Committee – 6 p.m.
The Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee develops recommendations for the 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, September 26
Mayor’s Golf Tournament – All Day
Be part of the tournament where civic, corporate, and community leaders will again enjoy a morning of golf and camaraderie to benefit arts and recreation in our community. Register as an individual or team to play. The tournament tees off at 8 a.m.
Overland Park Fall Festival – 4-8 p.m.
The Fall Festival returns to Downtown Overland Park on September 26 and 27, 2025. Join us for a fun-filled extravaganza packed with hands-on activities, live entertainment, friendly vendors and delicious festival food.
Saturday, September 27
Construction Debris Drop-Off – 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Do you have old construction debris cluttering up your space? This weekend, take the opportunity to clear out those unwanted items responsibly! Join us at the Blue Valley Northwest on Saturday for the Construction Debris Drop-Off. Find a list of items accepted at this event here.
Overland Park Fall Festival – 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Fall Festival returns to Downtown Overland Park on September 26 and 27, 2025. Join us for a fun-filled extravaganza packed with hands-on activities, live entertainment, friendly vendors and delicious festival food.
Electronics Recycling + Shredding Event – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Recycle your electronics (computers, TVs, phones, rechargeable batteries, stereos, etc.), small appliances (microwaves, toasters, etc.) and most items powered with a cord or a battery at this event. Documents for shredding will also be accepted for a suggested donation of $5 per box.
Birding WildLands Walk – 9:15 a.m.
Join Kansas City WildLands on a two-hour interpretive birding walk emphasizing how the ecosystems at the Arboretum support healthy bird populations, both migratory and resident. Bring your binoculars and wear comfy closed-toe shoes! Enhance your viewing experience by bringing along bug repellent and binoculars. Gather at the Arboretum Pavilion to embark on this enthralling journey into the avian realm.
Tuesday, September 30
Parks and 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 on the last Tuesday of every month at City Hall.