Festival of Butterflies

Festival of Butterflies (July 16-August 2) returns for a special 30th-year celebration, inviting guests of all ages to reflect on three decades of wonder, discovery, and the magic of pollinators at Powell Gardens. This year honors the memories that have made the festival a Kansas City family tradition while creating new ways to enjoy it together. Spend a day exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside stunning botanical displays!

Begin your journey in the Conservatory with an up-close encounter with free-flying butterflies. In honor of the festival’s 30th year, the Grand Hall will feature a stunning botanical cake installation. Take a look at this imaginative tribute to three decades of celebrating beauty and pollinators before you head outside!

Walk to the Garden Galleries to discover the host plants that sustain butterflies, then follow the Butterfly Meadow through some of Missouri’s native pollinator-friendly plants. On the East Lawn, you’ll find the Native Butterfly Habitat and Lily Pad learning stop. Make your way to the Plant & Insect Lab to observe pollinators in action.

Round out your visit with favorite extras like botanical sundaes, interactive exhibits, Fortopia, Dragons and Fantastic Beasts, the Pollinator Playground, the Flutter Zone, and more. Festival of Butterflies gives guests days filled with joy, reflection, and magical moments!

June 4 – September 6, 2026,  Tuesday – Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.