East Sac Garden Tour returns this weekend

This weekend, the 25th annual East Sacramento Garden Tour returns Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11. A fundraiser for David Lubin Elementary School’s student programs, this popular event draws hundreds of patrons to peek inside the private gardens of one of Sacramento’s most venerable neighborhoods.

“The East Sac Garden Tour is David Lubin Elementary’s largest fundraiser each year,” say the organizers. “But it’s more than that, too. It’s a story about East Sacramento and the beautiful gardens that exist all around us. It’s a chance to enjoy the community within our school and to also create a community outside of the school.

“Held each Mother’s Day Weekend, it has become a beloved tradition in Sacramento,” they add. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate all that has been slowly but steadily growing around us. The self-guided walking tour lets you explore our lovely neighborhood with the ones you love most – time enjoyed with a mom, a grandma, a neighbor or a friend. Kids are welcome too. (If there’s anything we can identify with the magical growth from seed to bloom, it’s a kid.)

“In addition to touring the outdoor spaces throughout the neighborhood, our school hosts a boutique, café and three more gardens to admire. The on-campus experience gathers over 25 local makers – perfect for gift shopping. Visit the David Lubin-led Bouquet Bar, Sweets Station and Cafe for a bite. The three on-campus gardens are cared for year-round by students, families and staff.

“If you’re looking to elevate the day even more, you can join us at Sutter Lawn Tennis Club for our Wine Garden,” note the hosts. “We have some fun surprises at the historical neighborhood club that we can’t wait to share.”

Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, the private gardens are each paired with top designers and local florists. Patrons may tour them in any order at their own pace.

Advance tickets ($25) are available online; tickets on tour weekend ($30) are sold at Lubin School.

The wine garden at Sutter Lawn will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Separate wine garden tickets are $20 in advance, $25 on tour weekend. The first 200 guests receive a commemorative glass. Children age 12 and younger are admitted free. Patrons also may buy in advance a combo ticket including both the tour and the wine garden ($45).

Need a gift for Mom? The event’s boutique and cafe will be open again at Lubin School, featuring several local vendors and plenty of “made in Sacramento” gift ideas. The boutique is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission to the boutique and cafe is free.

David Lubin School is located at 3535 M St., Sacramento.