Stems: A Garden Soirée, This Saturday, June 24th

Guests have been enjoying Stems: A Garden Soirée since 2008. If you have not attended before, we hope this information answers your questions.

What do we wear?

Comfortable shoes! Women wear sundresses, Capri pants, etc.—anything you’d wear to a patio party or other dressy outdoor event. The photos in the Stems Photo Galleries will give you an idea of what others have worn. Men wear Hawaiian or golf shirts and casual pants. If temperatures are above normal, shorts are appropriate. Jeans are not appropriate.

What about the weather?

The only reason the party would not go on would be an immediate danger due to severe weather. If that were the case, emergency personnel would not allow guests to enter the Arboretum. No refunds for any reason including inclement weather.

Is the party appropriate for children?

No. Only guests 21 years or older will be admitted. This will be strictly enforced.

What’s the parking situation?

There is ample parking on the grounds, and shuttles will provide a lift to the entrance to the party. Those with Patron parking passes or handicap tags will park in the paved parking lot and surrounding areas.

What about bugs on a warm June night in Kansas?

Each guest will receive a bug band to wear during the party. Additionally, insect repellant sprays will be in the restroom areas and supplies of towelettes will be at the beverage stations. Once opened, bug bands are effective for up to 30 days—so keep and re-use on the 4th of July!

What beverages will be available?

A variety of wines along with beers, non-alcoholic beverages and bottled water will be served. Guests will receive a hand-painted wine glass to use throughout the evening and take home as a Stems souvenir.

What kind of food is served?

There’ll be a wide variety of tasty tidbits (many much more generous than a tidbit!). Past menu items have included crab cakes, sliders, barbeque, chicken Marsala, orange shrimp, tiramisu, fruit crépes, crab & shrimp ceviché, prime rib sandwiches, an antipasto buffet, and fried cheesecake. There will be tables along the walking paths at which to stop and enjoy the food. There is limited seating, but many places to stop and eat along the walkways. Part of the fun of the party is to enjoy all the entertainment offerings and the many beautiful areas of the botanical gardens.

Will there be efforts to recycle at the event?

We’re glad you asked! Recycling, compostable waste, and trash receptacles will be conveniently located and maintained throughout the gardens. We encourage everyone to recycle beer and water bottles and soft drink cans. Event staff will recycle all wine bottles. Please re-use your souvenir wine glass and a convenient tray we will provide.

Is there any reason to stay until the end of the party?

Yes! There will be a short fireworks display beginning at approximately 9:40 p.m., but that doesn’t signal the end of the event—it’s just a magical interlude. eat. drink. frolic! until 11 p.m.!

What accommodations are available for those with disabilities?

The Arboretum is ADA accessible. All Stems features and attractions will be situated along the concrete walkways that accommodate wheel chairs. Emergency personnel will be on property.

Is there lighting at the Arboretum?

There is limited permanent outdoor lighting. At dusk, tiki torches will light the walkways. Food and beverage serving areas will be lit. Emergency lighting will illuminate the parking lot at dark.

If you have a question not answered here, please email: info@artsandrec-op.org. We hope you enjoy Stems: A Garden Soirée.