FORT BRAGG, CA., 7/28/25 — There is nowhere better or more mind-clearing to be than the during the garden’s annual Art in the Gardens event which takes place this weekend. The dahlias are at their awe-inspiring best, artists have dotted the manicured grounds with their works, and coast musicians are tuning it up and laying it down for appreciative visitors.
The event is a major fundraiser for this nonprofit garden perched on the edge of the Pacific. All ages are welcome to enjoy the music by such local treasures as the Real Sarahs, Mama Grows Funk, Moon Rabbit and the Runabout. Over 50 artists are participating this year, exhibiting ceramics, photography, jewelry, and the coast’s longtime specialty, exquisite woodwork. Stay for special appearances by Circus Mecca and the Sonoma County Pomo Dancers. There is even wine-tasting on the Event Lawn.
Be sure to get tickets in advance. Parking is free but limited; if you are able, please carpool. This year, a free shuttle will operate both days, picking up from Mendocino College’s Fort Bragg campus.
One exception to the garden’s usual dog-friendly welcome: because of the large number of people, dogs are not permitted during this weekend’s special fundraiser. Service dogs, however, can always accompany their owners.
Art in the Gardens takes place Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg. For tickets and a full schedule of events, visit www.gardenbythesea.org/aig.