October Sustainability Weekends

Looking ahead over the next three weekends in October, engage with neighbors and friends through a variety of sustainability events! From hands-on workshops to engaging talks-all ages can participate. Learn about soil health, discover the importance of pollinators, explore philosophies behind gardens, and create art inspired by nature. Discover these events to commit to a greener community through education and action while having fun. More on the City Calendar.

Upcoming Opportunities

Weekend of October 12 and 13

Hands on Workshop: Soil Testing for Home Gardeners | Sunday, October 13 | 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM | Rinconada Library

Come get the dirt...on soil! Master Gardener Sharon Erickson will lead a hands-on workshop on soil testing. Learn all about soil and how to use ado-it-yourself home soil testing kit. Learn more.

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Unseen Impact of Plastics and Microplastics | Sunday, October 13 | 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM | YouTube Livestream

Join us for a thought-provoking talk where Vipul Vyas will explore how plastics and microplastics have become inextricably woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Just as lead and asbestos were once considered harmless, we are now uncovering the alarming truth about plastics: their presence in our environment and bodies may be causing significant harm. Registration optional. Learn more.

Weekend of October 19 and 20

Electric Home Tour | Saturday, October 19 | 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM | TBA Upon Registration

See electric appliances in action and speak directly with Palo Altans who have made the switch during this year's Electric Home Tour. Tour Palo Alto homes, ranging from new construction to those transitioning from gas to electric. Experience cutting-edge appliances like heat pump systems, induction cooktops, electric dryers, and EV chargers. Gain valuable insights from homeowners on appliance selection, contractor decisions, the installation process, cost-saving benefits, and what it's like living with electric appliances. Registration required. Learn more.

Pollinator Plants Walk & Talk | Saturday, October 19 | 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Rinconada Library

Do you want to see more bees and butterflies in your garden? Learn about pollinator plants and how to care for them. The workshop will start with a short presentation, and then participants will walk to nearby pollinator gardens. Light refreshments will be provided. Learn more.

What We Sow in Cultivating Our Places: A Talk with Jennifer Jewell | Saturday, October 19 | 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM | Palo Alto Art Center

Join Jennifer Jewell to explore the philosophy of Cultivating Place, her award-winning podcast, based on the belief that gardens/gardeners are powerful agents and spaces for potentially positive change in our world. These stories and garden inspirations can guide us in ways we can all grow our world better. Learn more.

Fall Grow Family Day | Sunday, October 20 | 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM | Palo Alto Art Center

Join us for a creative afternoon inspired by our fall exhibition, GROW, and the gardens around us! This family-oriented event features hands-on art making projects led by Art Center teaching artists and community partners! Stay tuned for more details. Learn more.

Weekend of October 26 and27

Compost Workshop| Saturday, October 26 | 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Lucie Stern Community Center, Community Room

Bring out your garden's inner jungle. Learn how easy it is to make your own compost at this free compost workshop. Palo Alto residents receive a free compost bin or worm bin (one per household) by attending a compost workshop. Compost bins are available while supplies last. Learn more.