This year's "Starry Night in the Garden," an outdoor concert hosted by and benefiting Buffalo's beautiful Botanical Gardens, was a bright night for all involved.

Guests were given access to the gorgeous grounds, which includes a rainforest room, home to a 27-foot waterfall, a tropical plant exhibit, a koi fish pond, a desert room featuring a variety of cacti, and an impressive nine green houses. The flora is truly an amazing sight to take in, and visitors will not be disappointed by the tall trio of crystal domes, or the magnificent plant life inside.

"Starry Night" was presented by Star 102.5 and Paul William Beltz PC in an effort to benefit the Botanical Gardens. The evening kicked off at six 0' clock, with guests being treated to cookery and wine from local restaurants and breweries, all while enjoying a breezy summer's evening on the front lawns.

Director of Marketing for the Gardens, Erin Grajek, explained: "We partner with Entercom and Star 102.5 and they donate all the proceeds from the event to the Botanical Gardens...the proceeds will be used for everything, because we're not for profit. [They'll] be used to maintain the facility for generations to come." She adds that it is always a complete success, "It sells out every year."

Success this year came in the form of a crowd of approximately 2,500 people, eight wineries and breweries, twenty restaurants, finally culminating in a donation total of over $100,000.

Equally, if not more important than the earnings, says Erin, is the opportunity which the event opens up for the public: "It brings awareness to the community abut the Botanical Gardens, and brings people down here who wouldn't normally come... It's an opportunity to explore the gardens, inside and out."

The large crowd in attendance was owed in no small part to the four musical acts of the evening, headlined by Grammy-nominated songstress, Vanessa Carlton.

Kicking off the night's performances was Ferras, well-known for his hit single, "Hollywood is not America." He was followed by Australian artist, Delta Goodrem, whose powerful vocals and energy were a big crowd pleaser. Anna Nalick took the stage after Delta, and delivered a dynamic and humorous show, performing her famous "Breathe (2AM)" as well as "Shine," a single from her newest album due out this September.

Concert featured artist Vanessa Carlton took the stage and immediately drew the crowd to their feet. She played hits including "Ordinary Day" (on a harpsichord-like instrument, no less) as well as fan favorite "White Houses."

The 2008 "Starry Night in the Gardens" was once again a great success thanks to the efforts of Star 102.5, Erin Grajek and the many, many other parties involved.

On July 2 at 7pm, the Gardens will host the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, a free concert for all to enjoy, and a chance to take in the wonderful sights the Buffalo Botanical Gardens has to offer.

For more photos from this event, head to Buffalo.com/Spotted.