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On September 12-15 and 19-22, Terra Luna is coming back supercharged. The energy is coursing through Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens already.
In partnership with Friends of the Arboretum, Kansas City’s premier performing arts group, Quixotic, has dreamed up new mind-bending displays and musical performances. Dozens of vendors have claimed spots outside the portal for Celestial Fair, bringing nightlife to the iconic event. Event organizers have implemented a special twilight start time so more explorers than ever can enjoy. And by popular demand, they’ve reserved the night of September 19 for adults only.
We’re giving away two tickets to Terra Luna. Enter to win here.
A Lunar Retreat Beyond City Lights
Terra Luna—where Quixotic and Friends of the Arboretum partner to transform the gardens into a fantastical, explorable lunar landscape—is in its sixth year. It’s anything but discreet; previous years have seen performers on stilts, extensive projection mapping, fog-filled bubbles, and nets allowing overhead acrobatics. Yet because it’s tucked in a vast wooded area of Overland Park, away from the Kansas City lights, it retains the allure of a hidden gem.
Guests can get tickets early, but hardly ever late.
“The first weekend starts off a bit relaxed, but once people start sharing their photos on social media, the excitement builds quickly. By the time the second weekend rolls around, tickets are completely sold out,” says Brit Waye, community engagement manager at the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
“We’re improving every year, and it’s exciting to hear people say, ‘I didn’t know the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens had so much to offer,’” says Waye. “They’re always pleasantly surprised to discover the incredible nightlife experiences happening at our venue.”
New at the Lu’
As always, the creative minds at Quixotic are running on overdrive to bring first-time and longtime Terra Luna-goers a fresh experience. Think new ethereal musicians, innovative use of lights, and spellbinding performances.
“Quixotic takes the time to explore the gardens each year, reimagining the installations in fresh and exciting ways,” says Waye. “They’re always bringing in new music and dance performances, giving the experience a vibrant refresh every time. There’s always something amazing and unexpected to look forward to.”
This same drive for improvement is with the event’s organizers. The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park and Friends of the Arboretum listen to feedback—and Terra Luna guests have said they want earlier start times, more vendors, and an adults-only night. That’s all coming this year.
First, the 7 p.m. start time: Simply put, it lets even more people in on the fun. “It offers an ideal experience for families with young children and guests with visibility or sensory needs,” the organizers say, “allowing everyone to enjoy the event comfortably at dusk before total nightfall.”
This year, the event will occur alongside Celestial Fair, which will have food trucks, art vendors, and libations. This increased vendor presence means the pre-game and the after party are all in one spot.
“We’re excited to transform the entry space into the Celestial Fair with a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere,” says Waye. “With more to see and do, guests can enjoy the evening at their own pace, giving everyone a bit more breathing room to fully take in the magic of the event.”
And finally, the long-awaited adults-only night. Put simply, this will bring the chill vibes.
“Our guests have been asking for this for years, and we’re thrilled to finally deliver,” says Waye. “This adults-only night will offer a relaxed vibe without the hustle of kids, featuring a cosmic blend of food, drinks, and entertainment. Guests can enjoy cocktails and mocktails, explore art and vendors, and savor delightful bites—all while mingling in a colorful fusion of art and nature.”
An Investment in Future Fun
Terra Luna is a bright star in a constellation of fundraising events put on by the Friends of the Arboretum. Fall brings Botanical Brewfest, winter brings the Luminary Walk, and other unique events dot the rest of the calendar.
Even so, Waye can’t help but favor Terra Luna. “Early fall is such a special time, with the weather turning crisp and cool without diving into Halloween’s spooky side quite yet, and Terra Luna perfectly captures that moment,” says Waye. “It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the season with a vibrant fusion of color, light, art, and seasonal offerings in the gardens. It truly highlights the beauty of autumn.”
No matter your favorite, each Friends of the Arboretum event funds major improvements to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The iconic Monet Garden, the beloved Train Garden, and the incredible LongHouse Visitor Center? All were funded by events like Terra Luna.
“Your ticket purchase for your date-night or friends night out makes awesome projects happen at the Arboretum,” Waye says. “It’s a donation to help the Arboretum grow.”
Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for kids, and free for kids under two. The $60 VIP pass gets attendees front-of-line access, a Terra Luna tote bag, and a glow wristband. Grab some here.