The Gardens at Lake Merritt, a seven-acre collection of themed gardens, is conveniently located in the heart of Oakland, at the north end of Lakeside Park, near Fairyland. In partnership with the City of Oakland, FGLM supports garden revitalization through volunteerism, funding and special projects; ensuring these gardens remain a vibrant, relevant part of urban life. You can see the results of FG
LM volunteer efforts in the Mediterranean and Sensory Gardens, the “Google” Succulent Gardens, and the various Pollinator Gardens, including Lu’s Memorial Garden. Adhering to the Gardens’ traditional status as a demonstration garden, the Gardens at Lake Merritt currently is home to the Pollinator Posse which raises awareness about the irreplaceable role pollinators play in urban gardening, as well as a “Bee Hotel” for native apian species and an exhibit which spotlights cutting-edge resource-preserving water feature filtration. The Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt host the Autumn Lights Festival, a now annual event which each October unites Oakland’s horticultural, arts and music communities to delight and amaze attendees, and to raise funds to sustain the Gardens’ facilities and the Friends’ programs. Established more than a half century ago, the Gardens serve as a source of great regional pride, a cultural and educational center and a place to enjoy tranquility in the heart of the city. The Gardens are poised to serve as an example of the highest standards of horticulture and historic preservation, while providing enriching public programs.
