Rose Haven Heritage Garden opens its gates for a free, family-friendly celebration Saturday, Oct. 17, marking 35 years as a community gathering place in Temecula.

The Families in the Garden event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the 3.4-acre garden, located at 30592 Jedediah Smith Road. More than 20 exhibitors will set up across the grounds with educational booths, garden exhibits, artisan vendors and hands-on activities for all ages, according to the Temecula Valley Rose Society, the nonprofit that owns and manages the garden.

The lineup includes entomologist Gordon Pratt displaying an insect collection, biologist Esperanza Sandoval leading a session on local pollinators and butterflies, and UC Riverside's Department of Physics and Astronomy offering a solar telescope and meteorite collection. The Western Science Center plans to bring Ice Age fossil replicas. The San Diego Humane Society will run a bat education program with museum specimens.

Local agencies are also participating. Rancho California Water District, which serves both Temecula and Murrieta, will share information on turf replacement rebates. The Metropolitan Water District, Riverside County Sheriff's Department, Temecula Fire Department and the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library all have booths planned.

Kristi Piatkowski of Mission Hope Food Bank will let kids plant seed cups and sample fresh produce. The Veterans Supplemental Services Network is hosting a family space with clay and pottery activities.

The event is co-sponsored by the City of Temecula.

Saturday's event is the centerpiece of a three-day anniversary celebration. A ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, brings an art, music, poetry and storytelling program from 1 to 4 p.m., according to the city's event calendar.

The Temecula Valley Rose Society, affiliated with the American Rose Society, was formed in May 1990. The garden has served as a space for hands-on learning and environmental programs for 35 years, as reported by the Press Enterprise.

There is no on-site parking. Free parking and a shuttle are available at the corner of Ynez Road and Santiago Road. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Pre-registration on the Rose Society's website qualifies attendees for a free water bottle and tote bag.

Upcoming community events:

  • Saturday, Oct. 17: Families in the Garden, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Rose Haven Heritage Garden, 30592 Jedediah Smith Road, Temecula. Free.
  • Sunday, Oct. 18: Art, Music, Poetry & Storytelling in the Garden, 1 to 4 p.m., Rose Haven Heritage Garden. Free.