Behind the Curtain

How are the Gardens and UMB Bank contributing to Colorado?

At first blush, it is a tradition going back over three decades that brings summer delight to evenings in the City. Concerts at Denver Botanic Gardens almost always sell out and attract devoted attendees, many of whom have distinct rituals to ensure the best placement for their picnics and proximity to friends garnered from the shared experience of listening to a wide variety of world class music.

However, thanks to our partnership with UMB Bank, the naming sponsor of the Amphitheater and the Summer Concert Series for 10 years, this beloved series is actually much more. Concerts are a significant part of funding the gardens’ important work.

It starts with breathtaking horticulture, dotted with stunning art exhibits every year, all aimed at joy and enlightenment. It continues with agriculture. Yes, that’s right. Denver Botanic Gardens grows tons of food every year, using organic techniques and innovative methods to reduce water use and sequester carbon.

Crops are grown with the assistance of teams from Veterans to Farmers, some of America’s best who receive stipends and training to launch new careers in agriculture. Produce is used to supply the Community Supporting Agriculture co-op, as well as make possible a collection of vegetable markets in food deserts, reaching underserved communities with new, healthy options. 

The concerts also boost the Gardens’ education offerings and outreach efforts. We are connecting with community organizations across the metropolitan area and providing free access to the Gardens, including transportation, to thousands of people every year. The show is on the road as well, as we reach out to cities and counties across Colorado to help them rethink how and what to plant in public spaces, to make everything from parks to street medians more appropriate and sustainable in a challenging environment.

Because of remarkable partners like UMB Bank, so much is happening to change lives, all starting with 35,000 people every year, enjoying memorable nights in paradise while listening to stellar music.

It makes the enjoyment everyone feels when attending the concerts even more satisfying.