Dahlias are special enough. Combined with art juxtaposed against a gorgeous bluff and ocean landscape creates a day in paradise. All this is yours at the 31st annual Art in the Gardens weekend at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, held on the first weekend of August. The event on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. will feature live music, wine and craft beer tastings, art vendors on the Main Lawn, food offerings, and special performances by Circus Mecca and the Latino Coalition Youth Folk Dance Group.
The weekend is wildly popular, and parking is limited. Advanced tickets are recommended. Event tickets are available online: adults $30, age 6 to 17 $10, kids age 5 and under are free. Wine tasting tickets may be purchased in advance or at the event for $65 each, which includes garden admission, unlimited tastings, and a commemorative glass. Members of the Gardens receive $10 off all rates. Proceeds directly benefit the nonprofit botanical gardens.
Tickets are on sale at gardenbythesea.org.