Coming to Life: “Paws, Wings, & Wild Things” at the 2025 Fair

Building Begins! Jim Bouey, Dana Pearce, and Evan Hoey set the pergola in place.

Work is underway behind the scenes

We are excited to return to the Paul Ecke Jr. Garden Show at the San Diego County Fair with our latest exhibit: “Paws, Wings, & Wild Things.” Created for this year’s “Pet-tacular” theme, it highlights outdoor spaces designed for pets, wildlife, and people — all built with sustainable California native plants.

While the design details and plant list are still being finalized, progress is already underway. A small team of dedicated volunteers installed the pergola this week with special permission from the Fair. The official construction phase begins May 17, and we will be sharing updates as the build continues.

The garden will demonstrate how native plants, simple pathways, and features like water basins can create safe, functional spaces for people, pets, and local wildlife. It will include a small dog run, a catio, and examples of how to design with animals in mind while supporting biodiversity at home.

Save the date and come visit us!

June 11 – July 6, 2025 (closed Mondays & Tuesdays)

Outside of O’Brien Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds

Open 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (on fair days)

Watch for our next blog post, where we will share the final design plan, plant list, and construction updates as the garden takes shape.