Bok Tower Gardens Celebrates 97th Anniversary with Dedication Day Event

Visitors can cross the historic Yellin Gates and enjoy live music, storytelling, and carillon concerts.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 3:15pm

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On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Bok Tower Gardens will host a special Dedication Day celebration to mark the 97th anniversary of the Gardens' dedication as a gift to the American people. The event will feature rare access to the historic Yellin Gates and Great Brass Door, a multimedia presentation by historian Charles Troy, live jazz music, and carillon concerts by Geert D'hollander.

Why it matters

Bok Tower Gardens is a beloved Central Florida landmark with a rich history dating back to its dedication in 1929. This anniversary celebration offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the Gardens in a special way, honoring the vision of its founder, Edward W. Bok.

The details

The Dedication Day celebration will run from 8 am to 3 pm and include several special events. From 8 am to 12 pm, guests will have the rare chance to cross the historic Yellin Gates and stand before the Great Brass Door, one of the few times this view is accessible each year. At 12 pm, historian Charles Troy will present a multimedia program called "1924: The Gershwins' Magical Year," exploring a transformative period in American music. The celebration will continue on the Singing Tower Terrace with live jazz performances by Victoria D'lissovoy and Jazz Fire from 1:30 to 3 pm, and carillon concerts by Geert D'hollander at 1 pm and 3 pm.

  • The Dedication Day celebration will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Bok Tower Gardens was dedicated as a gift to the American people on February 1, 1929.

The players

Bok Tower Gardens

A historic landmark in Central Florida, Bok Tower Gardens was dedicated in 1929 as a gift to the American people.

Edward W. Bok

The founder of Bok Tower Gardens, who envisioned the Gardens as a gift to the American people.

Charles Troy

A historian who will present a multimedia program on the Gershwins' transformative year in 1924.

Victoria D'lissovoy

A jazz musician who will perform with her group Jazz Fire on the Singing Tower Terrace.

Geert D'hollander

A carillonneur who will perform concerts on the Singing Tower at 1 pm and 3 pm.

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What’s next

Visitors interested in attending the Dedication Day celebration can purchase tickets in advance. The event is free for Bok Tower Gardens members and included with regular admission for non-members.

The takeaway

Bok Tower Gardens' Dedication Day celebration provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the rich history and legacy of this beloved Central Florida landmark, honoring the vision of its founder and offering rare access, engaging programs, and unforgettable performances.