An Evening in Bloom
Supporting Access, Education, and the Arts at Reeves-Reed Arboretum
On Friday, May 29, 2026, more than three hundred community leaders, neighbors, and supporters will gather at Reeves-Reed Arboretum for ART in the Garden, an evening that celebrates not only the beauty of the gardens, but the vital role the Arboretum plays in the life of the community.
As the Arboretum’s largest annual fundraiser, the event directly supports year-round public access to thirteen acres of gardens, woodlands, and trails. It also sustains a wide range of educational programs for children, families, and adults, from nature-based early childhood classes and school partnerships to wellness programs, lectures, and hands-on workshops that foster a deeper connection to the natural world.
This year’s event marks a significant milestone with the public debut of the Arboretum’s new Path for All, a transformational project designed to create a more inclusive and accessible experience across the east side of the property. The pathway will ensure visitors of all ages and abilities, including those using wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility aids, can more fully enjoy the Arboretum’s gardens and programming.
“As the Arboretum’s largest annual fundraiser, ART in the Garden plays a vital role in sustaining our mission to engage, educate, and enrich all who pass through its gates,” said Executive Director Jackie Kondel. “When you attend, you’re doing more than enjoying a beautiful evening – you’re helping ensure that this special place remains welcoming, accessible, and inspiring for everyone in our community.”
This year, Reeves-Reed Arboretum is proud to honor Karen Olson, founder and president emeritus of Family Promise, the Summit-based national nonprofit dedicated to addressing family homelessness. Olson’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to community have transformed countless lives and inspired a nationwide movement of compassion and support. Her work reflects the very spirit of connection and care that the Arboretum strives to cultivate, making her an especially meaningful honoree for this year’s celebration.
Set against the backdrop of late spring in bloom, the evening will unfold as a vibrant garden party featuring exceptional cuisine by David Ellis Events, live music, an open bar, and a curated auction and raffle. Guests will also be among the first to experience Féminin Pluriel, a solo exhibition by Québec-based artist Pascale Bouchard. Her richly layered encaustic paintings draw inspiration from flowers and natural forms, exploring themes of transformation and memory in a way that feels both personal and universal. The work brings fresh, contemporary energy to the Arboretum, creating a natural connection between art and the landscape.
The exhibition will remain on view through October 31, 2026, with a portion of proceeds from artwork sales directly benefiting the Arboretum. A curated collection of artist-designed objects and garments inspired by the series will also be available, along with a live encaustic demonstration scheduled later in the season.
ART in the Garden also serves as the kickoff to the Arboretum’s summer art and performance series, Sounds of a Summer Night, which brings live music to the gardens and offers the community opportunities to gather, relax, and enjoy cultural experiences in a uniquely beautiful outdoor setting. The local Summit Elks Lodge 1246 proudly supports this concert series.
Corporate support for ART in the Garden is generously provided by Bartlett Tree Services, Bassett Associates, Charles River Associates, Compass Realty – Emily Lafrinere and Tamar Vacca, Country Club Services, First Bank, Peerless Beverage Company, and Rosen Kelly Conway Architecture & Design, as well as In Kind sponsors Creative Digital Solutions, David Ellis Events, and Prestige Party Rental, whose partnerships help make this celebration, and the Arboretum’s ongoing work, possible.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and journal ad information are available at bit.ly/AIGGala. Every ticket sold directly supports the Arboretum’s mission and helps ensure its gardens, educational programs, and community experiences continue to grow and remain accessible to all.
About Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Reeves-Reed Arboretum is a nonprofit public arboretum dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between people and nature through conservation, education, and community engagement. Located at 165 Hobart Avenue in Summit, the Arboretum’s gardens, grounds, and woodland trails are open to the public daily, offering beauty and inspiration in every season. For more information about upcoming programs, events and volunteer opportunities, visit reeves-reedarboretum.org.