Open Edible Garden Day

Saturday, August 9, 2025 • 10 am - 4 pm

We are thrilled by the community response and have hit capacity!

Thank you so much for your support and being part of our thriving community in Oakland. We hope to see you next year!

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A one-day celebration of edible gardens, shared knowledge, and neighborhood spirit.

On Saturday, August 9, neighbors throughout Temescal will open their front, back, and side yards to share their edible gardens with the community. Visitors are invited to explore at their own pace, meet the people behind the plants, and learn how food is being grown in a wide range of spaces and styles.

The event is free, self-guided, and open to everyone. You can take part by opening your garden as a host—no matter your skill level—or simply by joining as a visitor and spending the day walking the neighborhood, seeing what’s growing, and learning from your neighbors.

Roughly half the gardens are open from 10am–1pm, and the other half from 1–4pm, so even hosts have time to explore. You can start anywhere, visit as many gardens as you’d like, and go at your own pace.

Some hosts may offer samples, showcase garden-made projects like hot sauce or pickles, or share techniques like composting, seed-saving, or pest control. Others might just be there for a friendly chat about what’s worked and what hasn’t. Every garden is different, and every one adds something to the day.

This year, we're very proud to partner with local businesses Alleyway Cafe, in the Temescal Alley, and Crosshatch Press to make TOEG more sustainable, accessible, and fun for all.

  • Big or Small, It All Counts

    From compact container gardens to full backyard beds, every space is worth sharing.

  • Talk to the People Behind the Plants

    Garden hosts will be on hand to share tips, stories, and lessons learned—from first-time growers to seasoned pros.

  • From Garden to Kitchen

    Some gardeners share more than plants—expect to hear about hot sauce, composting, pickling, and more.

  • End the Day Together

    After the gardens close, come to the neighborhood afterparty — an easy way to connect and unwind.

Thank you to our partners!

Event FAQs

  • Yes! Temescal Open Edible Garden Day is completely free and open to everyone.

  • Not at all. This event is for anyone—whether you're growing food or just curious to see what your neighbors are up to.

  • RSVP and we’ll email you a digital map and garden guide before the event. It will include garden locations, open times, and what you might find at each one.

  • Gardens are open in two time slots: 10am–1pm and 1–4pm. Each garden is open for one slot only, so hosts can tour other gardens too.

  • Yes! There’s no set route—explore at your own pace and visit the gardens that interest you.

  • Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a tote bag (some gardeners may offer samples, herbs, or seeds).

  • Anyone in the Temescal neighborhood growing edible plants—no matter how small or new your garden is—is welcome to sign up. You’ll host for one part of the day and have the other half free to explore.

  • Yes, if your garden is in a private area (like your backyard), we ask that you be present. If your garden is fully visible from the front and you can’t attend, we may still be able to include it—just reach out.

  • You’re absolutely welcome to host. New gardens and works-in-progress are valuable and inspiring for others to see.

  • Stay tuned! We’re working on the details for a potential afterparty. We’d love to gather and celebrate with everyone!

“I loved meeting new neighbors, and the range of neighbors who opened up their gardens. I really enjoyed seeing inspiration from how our neighbors have planted gardens.”

2024 Visitor

“It was so cool and inspiring to see everyone's spaces, and what they've been growing! And so nice to meet folks who live in the neighborhood, as a new(ish)comer. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming!”

2023 Visitor