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:
Poetry Walk at Strang Park – Daily in April
Explore the beauty of nature while enjoying poems by Jamie Lynn Heller, Annie Newcomer, Jared Campbell and Morgan Schneebell, paired with artwork by Fred Trease. It’s a month-long celebration of art and poetry in our local park.
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 through April 14: “Rust & Chrome & Lights & Poems” by Guinotte Wise
April 23-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 will be on display at the LongHouse Visitor Center at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens daily through November.
Monday, April 1
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead Opening Day – 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Get ready to embark on an adventure with furry friends, feathered pals and endless fun as the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead kicks off its season on Monday, April 1. Skip the ticket line by purchasing your admission online in advance. You can also purchase seasonal memberships online for unlimited Farmstead fun.
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, April 2
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!
Wednesday, April 3
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 April 3 features Storyteller Priscilla Howe 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.
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, April 4
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, April 6
Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway – 9 a.m.
In celebration of Arbor Day, the City of Overland Park and the Legacy of Greenery Committee will be handing out free tree and shrub seedlings to Overland Park residents at the following locations:
- Thompson Park, 8045 Santa Fe Drive
- Tomahawk Ridge Community Center, 11902 Lowell Avenue
- Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th Street
View a list of available seedlings at opkansas.org.
Bird Walk – 9:15 a.m.
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.
Beginner Beekeeping Workshop – 10 a.m.
Could you be the next beekeeper in town? Join us as the founder of the Kansas City Hope Garden, Emma Entwistle, offers guidance on how, when, where and why you should consider beekeeping. This presentation will provide plenty of resources to help you take the leap.
Monday, April 8
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.
Thursday, April 11
Environmental Advisory Committee – 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.
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.
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 (upper) of the Myron Scafe Building, 8500 Antioch. The purpose of the Officers Board Meeting is to plan the agenda.
Friday, April 12
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. Overland Park residents can drop off one pickup truckload of materials at no charge at Shawnee Mission West High School, 8800 W. 85th St., between 8 a.m.-2 p.m. View a list of accepted materials on opkansas.org.
Saturday, April 13
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. Overland Park residents can drop off one pickup truckload of materials at no charge at Shawnee Mission West High School, 8800 W. 85th St., between 8 a.m.-2 p.m. View a list of accepted materials on opkansas.org.
Appliance Recycling + Shredding Event – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Recycle your large appliances (fridges, ovens, air conditioners, etc.) at no cost at this event hosted at Indian Woods Middle School, 9700 Woodson. Small appliances and electronics (TV’s, computers, etc.) will NOT be accepted. Documents for shredding will also be accepted for a suggested donation of $5 per box.
Kansas Healthy Yards Expo – 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Join us as we participate alongside other local cities at the Shawnee Civic Centre. Discover eco-friendly practices for a beautiful yard while protecting our environment. From native plants to rain gardens, gain insights from experts and city representatives on sustainable lawn care.
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.
Create your own nature-inspired DIY green moss art at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Nature Matters Kansas City provides all workshop materials. Just bring yourself, be creative, and have fun!
Monday, April 15
Public Works Committee – 5:30 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.
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, April 16
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, April 17
Community Development Block Grant Open House – 4:30-6 p.m.
Have a say in how Overland Park spends Community Development Block Grant Funds! The City is working on its Five-Year Consolidated Plan for 2025-2029. This plan will detail how the City allocates approximately $3.6 million to serve low and moderate-income residents and neighborhoods. Join your community at Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St., to learn about how Overland Park used these funds in the past and to help identify high-priority community service, housing, and public infrastructure needs.
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, April 18
Community Development Block Grant Open House – 6-7:30 p.m.
Have a say in how Overland Park spends Community Development Block Grant Funds!
The City is working on its Five-Year Consolidated Plan for 2025-2029. This plan will detail how the City allocates approximately $3.6 million to serve low and moderate-income residents and neighborhoods. Join your community at Johnson County Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., to learn about how Overland Park used these funds in the past and to help identify high-priority community service, housing, and public infrastructure needs.
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.
Saturday, April 20
Celebrate Earth Day by volunteering to remove trash and debris from our parks and waterways, restoring the natural beauty of Overland Park.
A substantial amount of trash and debris ends up in our streams. Volunteers will pick up the debris, bag it and pile the bags so that our Parks and Recreation crews can pick up and properly dispose of the collected trash.
Farmers’ Market Opening Day – 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is a vibrant public gathering place that builds community pride and spirit by bringing together shoppers of all ages and interests. Vendors offer shoppers a wide variety of products including fresh produce, local foods and unique specialty items. The Farmers’ Market helps you eat locally and in season while supporting your community.
Recycling Extravaganza – 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Get ready to go green! Join us at the Recycling Extravaganza on the Black & Veatch campus at 11401 Lamar Ave. Recycle and donate items not collected by routine curbside recycling that may otherwise end up in a landfill.
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.
Sunday, April 21
Overland Park Orchestra Concert – 3 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 Matt Ross Community Center.
Wednesday, April 24
Neighborhood Leadership Summit – 5:30 p.m.
The Cities of Overland Park and Olathe proudly present the Neighborhood Leadership Summit at the Olathe Community Center, 1205 E. Kansas City Road. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just stepping into the role, learn essential skills to establish neighborhood organizations, lead effectively and recruit volunteers. Register by April 17 to secure your spot.
Thursday, April 25
Mental Health Advisory Committee – Noon
The Mental Health Advisory Committee exists to advise the Public Safety Committee and City Council on issues of mental health in the community. This committee meets quarterly at City Hall.
Friends of the Arboretum Spring Plant Sale – 2-8 p.m.
Discover unique local plants for a meaningful garden, while raising funds for the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens through the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. Friends of the Arboretum gain early access to shop the selection of over 200 locally grown plant varieties.
Enjoy samplings of brews and appetizers at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Biergarten Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m. April 25 will feature Torn Label Brewing Co. and KC Pretzel Boys. Register online at the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park website.
Friday, April 26
Spring Plant Sale – 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Choose from a wide selection of over 200+ locally grown plant varieties at the Spring Plant Sale hosted at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. All proceeds from the sale go toward future Arboretum projects funded through the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
Saturday, April 27
Farmers’ Market – 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is a vibrant public gathering place that builds community pride and spirit by bringing together shoppers of all ages and interests. Vendors offer shoppers a wide variety of products including fresh produce, local foods and unique specialty items. The Farmers’ Market helps you eat locally and in season while supporting your community.
Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway – 9 a.m.
Free trees? Yes, please! The Legacy of Greenery Committee is giving away tree and shrub seedlings from 9 a.m.-noon at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens on a first-come basis, while supplies last. Contribute to a greener world by planting new trees and shrubs this spring.
Spring Plant Sale – 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Choose from a wide selection of over 200+ locally grown plant varieties at the Spring Plant Sale hosted at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. All proceeds from the sale go toward future Arboretum projects funded through the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
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.
Sunday, April 28
Spring Plant Sale – 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Choose from a wide selection of over 200+ locally grown plant varieties at the Spring Plant Sale hosted at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. All proceeds from the sale go toward future Arboretum projects funded through the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
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.