Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 29th Landmark Luncheon Highlights Progress and Momentum for the Park’s Future
Monday, April 27th, 2026
The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted its 29th Annual Landmark Luncheon Thursday at The Promenade at Piedmont Park, welcoming over 500 civic leaders, supporters and community members, including featured speaker the Honorable Andre Dickens, the 61st Mayor of the City of Atlanta. The annual gathering highlighted the Conservancy’s ongoing efforts to enhance and preserve Atlanta’s most iconic green space, while showcasing meaningful progress tied to the Park’s first Comprehensive Plan in 25 years.
The Conservancy raised over $700,000 in support of Piedmont Park through this year’s event, setting a new fundraising record. Proceeds from the Luncheon support critical maintenance, capital improvements, environmental stewardship and community programming that ensure the Park remains vibrant and accessible for generations to come.
“No matter what part of the city you live in, everyone claims Piedmont Park as ‘their park’ and the ‘green heart’ of the city. Atlanta’s parks are our gathering spots, places for connections and sometimes just to commune with nature,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. “A park this special does not maintain itself—it takes stewardship, investment and dedicated partners. For decades, the Piedmont Park Conservancy has been that ‘connector’ bringing all of us together. A growing city must continue investing in the things and places that make it livable and lasting, and the Conservancy is helping us do just that.”
Presented by The Speedwell Foundation, the Luncheon centered on the theme, “Putting the Plan in Motion: Progress, Impact and What Comes Next,” highlighting the Conservancy’s role as stewards of the Park, in partnership with the City of Atlanta. Attendees heard remarks from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who highlighted the importance of continued investment in Piedmont Park to support its role as a vital public space for Atlanta residents and visitors.
The 2026 Landmark Luncheon builds on the momentum of the Comprehensive Plan and reflects significant progress already underway. Over the past year, that progress has taken shape through a series of key enhancements, including the renovation of the Pool and Aquatic Center, resurfacing of the Active Oval, restoration of Legacy Fountain, installation of a new garden at the 10th Street entrance and the unveiling of Myriad, a new public art installation.
The Conservancy has also expanded its community impact through increased public programming and enhanced operations, including seven-day-a-week Park coverage, ensuring a welcoming and well-maintained environment for all visitors.
The Luncheon also spotlighted the Conservancy’s Fund-A-Need initiative, supporting continued care of the Park, expanded programming and volunteer opportunities, historic preservation efforts and advancement of the Comprehensive Plan.
“This year’s Landmark Luncheon was a powerful reminder of the community behind Piedmont Park,” said Doug Widener, president and CEO of Piedmont Park Conservancy. “The support we received will directly advance critical improvements, programming and stewardship that keep the Park thriving for everyone.”
