Crossing the Moat: A Dedication Day Celebration

Step back in time and celebrate the history and legacy of Bok Tower Gardens during a day filled with music, storytelling, and rare opportunities. In honor of the Gardens’ dedication as a gift to the American people on February 1, 1929—an occasion marked by President Calvin Coolidge’s address—we invite you to join us for a celebration that bridges past and present.

From 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., guests will have the extraordinary chance to cross the historic Yellin Gates and stand before the Great Brass Door, one of the few times each year this treasured view is possible. At 12 p.m., historian Charles Troy presents a unique multimedia program, 1924: The Gershwins’ Magical Year, in the Visitor Center Theater, exploring one of the most transformative periods in American music. The celebration continues on the Singing Tower Terrace with live jazz by Victoria D’lissovoy and Jazz Fire from 1:30 – 3 p.m., filling the air with the rhythms of a golden era. Complementing the festivities, Geert D’hollander will perform carillon concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., highlighting music from the same vibrant period.

This day of remembrance and revelry honors the vision of Edward W. Bok while offering visitors rare access, rich history, and unforgettable performances. Free for members and included with general admission, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

Event Date & Time

Saturday, January 31, 2026
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cross the Moat 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Gershwin Presentation 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Music on The Terrace with Jazzfire – 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Live Carillon Concerts 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Location

Cross the Moat at the Singing Tower, See the Gershwin Program at the Visitor Center Theater, and Listen to Jazz at the Cafe Terrace

Price

Free for members / Included with Admission for non-members ($20 for adults, $10 for children ages 6-17, and free for kids 5 and under)
No registration required

Not a Member? Purchase Garden Admission Here

Please Note:

To assist Bok Tower Gardens with the rising costs of online transactions, a small processing fee is required for to confirm your registration.

Ticket price includes general admission to the Gardens. Tickets are available for purchase at boktower.org, in person at the Visitor Center or by phone at 863-734-1222. All programs and classes promptly begin at stated time and visitors are encouraged to arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins for check-in. Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to the class start time. Culinary events are demonstration based and late arrivals may not be accommodated. For classes held after 5 pm, the entrance gate will stay open for an additional 30 minutes after the start time. Once the gate closes, late arrivals will not be admitted. Due to the nature of culinary events held at the Outdoor Kitchen, Bok Tower Garden may attempt, but cannot guarantee, to accommodate food allergies. Dogs are not permitted at any educational program.