The City of Duarte is pleased to announce the official opening of the Duarte Community Garden, a new space dedicated to sustainability, wellness, and community engagement, located at Tzeitel Paras-Caracci Park (2701 Royal Oaks Drive).

The grand opening culminated with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, July 26, where City officials, community members, and partners gathered to celebrate the completion of the project. Approved by the Duarte City Council in February 2025, the garden reflects the City’s ongoing efforts to create accessible, eco-friendly spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents.

“This beautiful Duarte Community Garden will serve far more than a place to grow food,” said Mayor Cesar A. Garcia. “It will be a hub of learning, connection, and wellness, a space where residents can grow healthy, affordable food, attend hands-on gardening workshops, and build community with their neighbors.”

The Duarte Community Garden features:

• 20 individual garden plots

• Two ADA-accessible raised beds

• Shared gardening tools, composting facilities, and drip irrigation systems for sustainable practices

• Native landscaping, decomposed granite walkways, and shaded seating areas

The project is made possible through a partnership with Food Exploration & Discovery (Food ED), a nonprofit organization committed to edible education and ecosystem care. Food ED is overseeing day-to-day operations of the garden and will offer ongoing educational programming, workshops, and support for community members.

The application window for a garden bed is now closed. Interest applications for the upcoming growing season, October 2026 through October 2027, will open online starting June 2026. Residents are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Food ED will be hosting a Welcome & Fall Planting Workshop on Saturday, September 20 from 9-11 AM at the Community Garden. Open to the public, this free workshop will help participants jumpstart their fall vegetable gardens and learn the basics of planting and seasonal care. Free plants will be available for attendees while supplies last.

Residents interested in learning more about garden guidelines or participating in future events and programs are encouraged to visit DuarteCommunityGarden.org or contact the Duarte Parks and Recreation Department at (626) 357-7931.