Autumn Lights Festival: OCTOBER 12 - 14, 2023.
Save the Date!
The Autumn Lights Festival is a fundraiser for the Gardens at Lake Merritt. The Gardens at Lake Merritt were established more than a half century ago. They are a collection of themed gardens requiring varying levels of upkeep. Volunteers provide much needed maintenance assistance as the City of Oakland’s gardening staff has been dramatically reduced over time. The gardens are a tranquil oasis in the heart of Oakland and provide enriching public programs.
The Autumn Lights Festival is presented by the Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt (FGLM). FGLM is an entirely volunteer organization, formed in 2004. The Mission of the FGLM is to partner with the City of Oakland to enhance the seven-acre collection of themed gardens in the heart of Oakland.
By supporting the diverse plant collection, habitats, demonstration gardens and landscapes of the gardens, FGLM works to augment the Gardens as a learning resource and a serene location for the public to connect with and enjoy the beauties of nature.

Here are a few of the Installation highlights from 2022
Photos courtesy of: John Kirkmire, Sloane Larsen, and Ken Katz.

A GARDEN VISION
Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt Board

FLOS ALIENA: GERMINATION
Mike Saleski

POLLINATOR PERSPECTIVE
Pollinator Posse

THE SPACE GARDEN
STAN CLARK

FACES OF OAKLAND
Visual Arts Academy (VAAMP) students at Oakland High School

GLOWING AGAVES
Annie's Annuals Employees

WATCHAGONNADO
Armelle Le Roux

BLACK LIGHT ART SALON
Todd Cooper, Bob Krambuhl and Camp GlowJob
If you are interested in becoming an artist, see below.
Submission Deadline:
August 30, 2023
Jury Feedback:
Week of September 8, 2023
If you have any questions, please email: oakalfdirector@gmail.com30
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, see below.
Submission Deadline:
August 1, 2023
Sponsor logo deadline for printed materials:
Week of August 14, 2023
If you have any questions, please email: oakalfdirector@gmail.com3
