Annual Secret Garden Tour raises funds for La Jolla Historical Society

LA JOLLA – Calling all gardening enthusiasts.

If you’ve ever wanted to take a stroll through some of the most private gardens in one of San Diego’s most exclusive areas, you’re in luck, because the annual Secret Garden Tour of La Jolla is coming up soon.

The fundraising event, which is produced by the La Jolla Historical Society and is now in its 27th year, offers an exclusive glimpse into six private gardens, showcasing the artistry of local landscapers, architects, and designers. Tickets start at $55.

“All of the proceeds go right back into our free exhibitions and public programs,” said Lauren Lockhart, La Jolla Historical Society executive director.

Participants don’t have to be members of the La Jolla Historical Society to participate, but members do receive early access and discounted rates.

The scheduled hours of the tour are from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. However, it’s up to each individual regarding how long they want to participate.

“Because it’s a self-driving tour, folks could choose to really take their time and explore all six gardens included on the tour,” Lockhart said. “Some will enjoy the gardens all day long, then come back at the end of the day. But if you are in a time crunch, none of the gardens are terribly far apart, and so you could see all of them in a shorter time frame; you don’t need six hours to see them all.”

A new component added to this year’s event is a “Lunch and Learn” ticket, where tour participants can also gain knowledge from master gardeners at a meal setting.

“This is something that can actually be purchased in tandem with a self-driving ticket to the tour,” Lockhart said. “It will include a beautiful catered lunch at a historical location. So, if you’re planning to tour the gardens with friends, this is a great way to break up your tour stops.

“You can stop in the middle of the day, have a fabulous lunch, and you’ll also be able to meet master gardeners there who’ll be offering some tips and tricks and sharing some of their expertise with the lunch attendees,” she said.

Another selling point is that at each stop on the tour, participants will find more than just gardens.

“In every garden there is an artist, a musician, and a tabletop designer who’s enhancing your experience in each of the gardens, so that’s something really unique about this tour,” Lockhart said. “Not only are you experiencing these beautiful private gardens, but you also get to hear fabulous live music, see a planter painter at work, and see some lovely designs on the tabletops.

“It’s a really great day,” she said.

Secret Garden Tour

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, May 16; luncheon is from noon to 2 p.m.

Cost: $55 for La Jolla Historical Society members, $65 for non-members. Starting May 11, the cost for each increases by $10.