Thousands of candles illuminate a mile of pathways and trails, while holiday lights brighten the trees, buildings and bridges. There will be live musical entertainment in the gardens and the Visitor Center, along with warm cider served around a campfire. The entertainment schedule and information about performers can be found here.
The Mystical Gnome and Fairy Villages are sure to delight onlookers, in addition to the spectacular Train Garden and the child-size Gingerbread House. This year there will also be family selfie photo spots set up along the walk.
Many visitors especially enjoy the quiet and serenity of the candlelit paths in the wooded areas. “For many visitors, walking those winding, candlelit paths through the trees at night is an almost spiritual experience,” said event chair Irene Parsons.
Tickets are $8 and include horse-drawn hay wagon rides. Entertainment includes “Santa’s Woodland Depot,” where Santa himself appears from 5:30 to 8:30 each night.
The Luminary Walk is free for children five and under, and parking is free. Tickets can be purchased at the door, but for a quicker entry into the event purchase tickets in advance at area Westlake ACE Hardware and Hen House stores, or online.
The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is located at 8909 West 179th Street. Ten minutes south of I-435 and Metcalf, just west of 69 Highway, the Arboretum is an easy drive from anywhere in the metro KC area.
Often called “the hidden jewel of Overland Park,” the Arboretum’s 300 acres contain ornamental gardens and natural walking trails. The Luminary Walk is produced by the Friends of the Arboretum, a part of The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
