An Evening of Poetry in the Garden

Join us for a magical summer evening of poetry surrounded by the beauty of the Emily Dickinson Garden at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Acclaimed poets will share selections of their work in a setting that honors the intimate connection between art and nature so beautifully embodied in the works of Emily Dickinson.

This year’s event will also honor Vicki Lilly, recently retired Executive Director of the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. In tribute, Vicki has selected a favorite visual art piece within the Arboretum to serve as inspiration for our featured poets, Catherine Anderson and Robert Cole, adding a personal and meaningful layer to the evening’s readings.

After the poetry, guests will gather in the LongHouse Visitor Center for dessert and conversation. This is a rain-or-shine event; in case of inclement weather, the readings will be held indoors at LongHouse.

Make the most of your evening—arrive early to explore the gardens and trails, enjoy a light dinner at Café Celeste, and browse for a unique find at the LongHouse Gift Shop. Admission to the gardens on Tuesday, June 2 is free, but please make your event reservation here. The Emily Dickinson Garden is a short walk from LongHouse, and guests will have the opportunity to indicate any special accommodations when reserving.

“An Evening of Poetry in the Garden” is the second annual event in the John Doyle Klier Literary Series, presented by the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park and underwritten by the David W. Newcomer IV and Gene Ann Newcomer Family Foundation—celebrating the literary arts in connection to the natural world.

Bring a friend and enjoy an unforgettable evening.