April 26, 2022, marks the bicentennial of the birth of Frederick Law Olmsted, landscape architect of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

A celebration is being planned in honor of the author, journalist, city planner, landscape architect, public official, and creative genius who transformed the modern American landscape. Olmsted 200 will be a coordinated national and local celebration, engaging wide and inclusive audiences in examining the foundational principles of Olmsted’s democratic vision, values, and resilient designs.

The Bicentennial will bring together, in a loose and creative coalition, landscape architects, city planners, historians, journalists, policy makers, public health professionals, and community leaders and advocates to explore the many ways in which Olmsted’s values are relevant to 21st century America.

The National Association for Olmsted Parks (NAOP) will lead and coordinate the celebration working with the American Society of Landscape Architects, The Garden Club of America, the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site, the City Parks Alliance, National Recreation and Park Association, and The Cultural Landscape Foundation. With activities in public education, advocacy, and outreach, Olmsted 200 will begin in April 2021 and culminate on April 26, 2022 with high-profile coordinated birthday celebrations in Central Park & parks around the county.

To receive updates about Olmsted 200 from the NAOP, sign up at https://naop.formstack.com/forms/olmsted_200_form