Get ready, Overland Park! October is here, and our city is bursting with amazing events. From festive fall fun to engaging community gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We’re excited to bring you a month packed with opportunities to make new memories and connect with your neighbors. Check out October’s event guide and get ready to fall in love with our community all over again.
Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Tuesday-Thursday – 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday-Sunday – 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Closed on Mondays
Hop aboard a horse-drawn hayride to Pumpkin Hollow, play lawn games and choose the perfect pumpkin to take home. Pumpkin Hollow is open Oct. 1-26. Learn more on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Spend Saturday mornings browsing aisles of fresh produce, meats, cheeses and specialty products at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market. The Farmers’ Market is open from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 22. Beginning Oct. 4, the Farmers’ Market hours shift to 8 a.m. and noon. The 2025 market season operates at Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street, to allow for the construction of the Clock Tower Landing.
Experience the creativity and talent of the next generation of artists at the Johnson County Community College Fine Arts and Design Student Exhibition! This exhibit is a fantastic opportunity to engage with the vibrant art community and support emerging artists. You can view this exhibit Oct. 10-Nov. 9, 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.
Wednesday, October 1
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!
Saturday, October 4
Moon and Water Lantern Festival – 3:30-9 p.m.
Experience a magical evening under the moonlight at the Moon and Water Lantern Festival at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Enjoy the enchanting sight of lanterns reflecting on the water, live performances, lion and dragon dances, delicious food for purchase, games and more! Join us for a family-friendly cultural celebration hosted by the Kansas City Chinese Association.
- 3:30-6:30 p.m. | Festival
- 6:30 – 7 p.m. | Opening Ceremony
- 7-8:30 p.m. | Lantern Release
- 9 p.m. | Event Ends
Let’s come together to celebrate unity and harmony. Purchase tickets online in advance.
Monday, October 6
Neighborhood Executive Committee Officers Board – 5:30 p.m.
The Neighborhood Executive Committee develops and monitors the progress of the neighborhood programs.
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, October 7
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 October is “Hedge Apple Goblin.”
Fire Prevention Week Open House – 5-7 p.m.
The Overland Park Fire Department is hosting open house events in celebration of Fire Prevention Week! Meet with OPFD firefighters and learn how to keep yourself, your family, friends and property safe. Join us at Fire Station 41, 7550 W. 75th St., on October 7 from 5-7 p.m.
Public Information Meeting: City Place Trail Project – 5:30-7 p.m.
You are invited to attend an informational meeting at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center to discuss the City Place Trail project, which will connect to the Indian Creek Trail and Valleybrooke Park, planned for construction in 2026. This project consists of constructing a trail and three pedestrian bridges over Indian Creek crossings. Learn more about projects happening in the City of Overland Park at opkansas.org/Construction.
Wednesday, October 8
Fire Prevention Week Open House – 5-7 p.m.
The Overland Park Fire Department is hosting open house events in celebration of Fire Prevention Week! Meet with OPFD firefighters and learn how to keep yourself, your family, friends and property safe. Join us at Fire Station 43, 13801 Switzer Rd., on October 8 from 5-7 p.m.
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, October 9
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 Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens!
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.
Fire Prevention Week Open House – 5-7 p.m.
The Overland Park Fire Department is hosting open house events in celebration of Fire Prevention Week! Meet with OPFD firefighters and learn how to keep yourself, your family, friends and property safe. Join us at Fire Station 410, 19120 Metcalf Ave., from 5-7 p.m.
Environmental Advisory Council – 6 p.m.
The Environmental Advisory Council examines environmental issues while supporting and promoting new and existing programs, as well as developing educational initiatives that benefit individuals and businesses in our community regarding environmental concerns. This council meets on the second Thursday at 6 p.m.
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.
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, October 10
Fall Movie Night at the Arboretum: “Hocus Pocus” – 5:30 p.m.
Join us for a fall movie night under the stars at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! Gates open at 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to grab delicious food and refreshing drinks and find the perfect spot with your chair or blanket. Enjoy yard games, explore our gift shop, and test your knowledge with movie trivia before the big screen lights up at 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable outdoor movie experience—fun, food, and film all in one perfect fall night!
Saturday, October 11
Pressed Flower Workshop – 9:15 a.m.
In this hands-on workshop at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, you will learn how to preserve flowers by pressing them flat. We will also make a keepsake floating frame with dried flowers that you can customize to your desire. Bring a friend and make it a date!
Wolf Creek Day with KC WildLands – 9:15 a.m.
Join Kansas City WildLands for this fun, kid-friendly event at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. We’ll explore Wolf Creek by playing and learning about the life inside the water and how it’s connected to healthy ecosystems on land. Adults must stay with their children and provide supervision. Please wear shoes and clothes suitable for getting wet. Meet at the Picnic Pavilion near the Admissions Kiosk.
How to Draw and Use Herbs – 10 a.m.
Explore the art of herbal illustration while discovering the rich, multifaceted world of herbs in this unique six-week series at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens led by Jill Tichenor, a skilled artist and botanical enthusiast. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a seasoned gardener or simply curious about the uses of herbs, this class has something for everyone. Each week, you’ll learn how to draw two different herbs, guided step-by-step by Jill. You’ll gain an understanding of their unique shapes, textures and subtle details, capturing them in botanical drawings that reflect their beauty and character and build your skills weekly.
Friends of First Responders Day – 1-3 p.m.
The Overland Park Fire and Police Departments, along with volunteers, invite people with developmental disabilities and their families to a day of fun, learning and community engagement at the Overland Park Fire Training Center. Watch demonstrations and participate in hands-on activities alongside local firefighters and police officers. This event offers a unique opportunity to learn how to keep loved ones safe and feel at ease around emergency first responders.
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. This is a lead-free project; however, chemicals are involved. We will be working with our hands regularly with fine motor skills such as applying foil tape and holding soldering irons. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.
Sunday, October 12
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. This is a lead-free project; however, chemicals are involved. We will be working with our hands regularly with fine motor skills such as applying foil tape and holding soldering irons. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.
Monday, October 13
Ordinance Review Committee – 11:45 a.m.
The Ordinance Review Committee reviews ordinance amendment proposals with staff prior to 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, October 14
Board of Zoning Appeals – 7 p.m.
The Board of Zoning Appeals considers requests for relief from the zoning ordinance’s requirements and meets monthly, typically on the second Tuesday. The Board of Zoning Appeals meets at City Hall.
Wednesday, October 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.
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, October 16
Public Information Meeting: College and Metcalf Mobility Enhancements – 4:30-6 p.m.
The City invites you to attend an informational meeting to discuss the College and Metcalf Mobility Enhancements project, planned for construction along College Boulevard from Marty Street to Nall Avenue in fall 2026. This project involves constructing a multi-use trail and incorporating linear park features. The meeting will be an open house, allowing you to attend at a time that works best for you. City staff and BHC, the consulting engineering firm hired to design the improvements, will be available to answer questions regarding project details, including the concept plan, property acquisition and project schedule. Learn more about this project and other construction projects happening in the City of Overland Park at opkansas.org/Construction.
Friday, October 17
Police Open House and Career Fair – 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Join the Overland Park Police Department and the Johnson County Regional Police Academy for a Police Open House and Career Fair! OPPD is hiring police cadets, interns, officers and many other positions. Apply in-person, watch SWAT demonstrations and learn how you can serve your community. Can’t make it? Apply online at opkansas.org/JoinOPPD.
Bewitched by Orchids, Show and Sale – 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Step into a world of exotic beauty at “Bewitched by Orchids,” a two-day celebration of one of nature’s most captivating plant families! Presented in partnership with the Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, this special show features breathtaking orchid displays and a diverse selection of orchids and plants from both local and out-of-state vendors. Because orchids are not currently grown on-site at the Arboretum, this is a rare opportunity to experience their incredible diversity and stunning beauty up close. Admission to the show is free with regular paid Arboretum admission. Friends of the Arboretum members are free.
Night of the Living Farm – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the Farmstead after dark if you dare. Enjoy “spooktacular” fun such as children’s performances, hayrides, marshmallow roasts, a dance party, spooky Mad Science experiments, and more. Buy tickets online only on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Saturday, October 18
Bewitched by Orchids, Show and Sale – 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Step into a world of exotic beauty at “Bewitched by Orchids,” a two-day celebration of one of nature’s most captivating plant families! Presented in partnership with the Orchid Society of Greater Kansas City at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, this special show features breathtaking orchid displays and a diverse selection of orchids and plants from both local and out-of-state vendors. Because orchids are not currently grown on-site at the Arboretum, this is a rare opportunity to experience their incredible diversity and stunning beauty up close. Admission to the show is free with regular paid Arboretum admission. Friends of the Arboretum members are free.
Recycling Extravaganza – 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Rid your home of old items at the Recycling Extravaganza held at the Black & Veatch campus, 11401 Lamar.. There is no residency requirement to attend this event. View a list of acceptable items at opkansas.org/Recycling.
Botanical Brewfest – 12-3 p.m.
Sample dozens of local and regional breweries and restaurants at Brewfest at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Purchase tickets in advance on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Night of the Living Farm – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the Farmstead after dark if you dare. Enjoy “spooktacular” fun such as children’s performances, hayrides, marshmallow roasts, a dance party, spooky Mad Science experiments, and more. Buy tickets online only on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Monday, October 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, October 21
Night at the Arboretum – 5 p.m.
Come roam the trails with your flashlight, look at the stars after dark at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Night at the Arboretum is a chance to see the spookier side of the Arboretum, and it’s free with Arboretum admission.
Wednesday, October 22
Public Information Meeting: 2025 Major Storm Sewer Repair – 5:30-6:30 p.m.
The City invites you to attend an informational meeting to discuss the 2025 Major Storm Sewer Repair Project between 97th Terrace and Switzer Road, scheduled for spring 2026. The City plans to construct a storm sewer repair project to alleviate flooding conditions on the streets and structures in the area. The project consists of deepening and widening the existing concrete channel from the culvert at Switzer Road to the culvert at West 97th Terrace. Additional improvements to the roadway, as well as utility relocations and stormwater systems replacement, will be necessary to accommodate this work. The public information meeting will address questions and/or concerns from property owners adjacent to the proposed improvements. Learn more about this project and other construction projects happening in the City of Overland Park at opkansas.org/Construction.
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, October 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 designed for young nature lovers, ages 1-6. Registration and caregiver presence are required.
Mental Health Advisory Committee – 12 p.m.
The Mental Health Advisory Committee advises the Public Safety Committee and the City Council on issues related to mental health in the community.
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, October 24
Night of the Living Farm – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the Farmstead after dark if you dare. Enjoy “spooktacular” fun such as children’s performances, hayrides, marshmallow roasts, a dance party, spooky Mad Science experiments, and more. Buy tickets online only on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Saturday, October 25
Woodland Watercolor Workshop – 1 p.m.
Join local artist Sarah Ruth Frey at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for a special woodland-inspired watercolor workshop! Learn to sketch and paint the wonders of the forest floor, like mushrooms, acorns, fern fronds and more. In this guided workshop, we will use artist-quality materials, including cold-pressed watercolor paper and professional-grade watercolor paints. No experience necessary. All materials are provided, along with light refreshments. The workshop will be held in the Environmental Education Center.
Trunk or Treat with OPPD – 3-5 p.m.
Join the Overland Park Police Department for a fun, spooky and safe Halloween event in a drug- and alcohol-free environment! Spend the afternoon trick-or-treating from trunk to trunk, collecting candy and meeting your police officers.
Night of the Living Farm – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the Farmstead after dark if you dare. Enjoy “spooktacular” fun such as children’s performances, hayrides, marshmallow roasts, a dance party, spooky Mad Science experiments, and more. Buy tickets online only on the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Sunday, October 26
Stained Glass Workshop for Beginners – 1 p.m.
Join us in making a stained glass hanging at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! In this workshop, we will learn how to foil, solder and complete a stained glass project. This is a lead-free project; however, chemicals are involved. We will be working with our hands regularly with fine motor skills such as applying foil tape and holding soldering irons. Wear comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety as we will be using high-temperature soldering irons.
Monday, October 27
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.
Tuesday, October 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 on the last Tuesday of every month at City Hall.
Wednesday, October 29
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.