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Gilroy, CA (March 25, 2026): Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park celebrated the start of the 2026 operating season with free admission for all Gilroy residents on Sunday, March 22. Gilroy kids of all ages and their families enjoyed a sunshiny day full of exciting rides, gorgeous gardens, and a generous dose of community spirit.
2026 marked the park’s 16th Gilroy Appreciation Day, a beloved annual tradition that provides complimentary admission to all City of Gilroy residents. This year the park welcomed almost 6,000 Gilroy residents, as well as other special guests representing the City of Gilroy and local non-profit organizations such as CARAS, Garlic City Kitty Rescue, the Gilroy Library, Gilroy Museum & Historical Society, Gilroy Recreation Department, Rebekah’s Children’s Services, South Bay Singers, South County Community Services, South Valley Symphony, and Town Cats.
In his welcome remarks on Sunday, City of Gilroy Mayor Greg Bozzo said, “We are so proud to have Gilroy Gardens in our city and part of our community. This park simply wouldn’t be what it is today without the incredible spirit and dedication of the people of Gilroy. Your support of this incredible park over the years, through visits, memberships, volunteering, or simply sharing your love for the park, has helped sustain Gilroy Gardens and its mission. This is a powerful partnership between the park and the community that inspires us all.”
In addition to the spring Gilroy Appreciation Day, Gilroy Gardens offers year-round discounts to Gilroy residents through the “We Love Our Locals” program. With proof of residency, Gilroy residents can purchase daily admission tickets as low as $26 (more than 60% off front-gate prices) on any regular operating day.
Gilroy residents are also able to purchase tickets for just $12 on the first day of the park’s popular annual events, including the NEW Voyage to the Islands (May 2) and the return of the award-winning Cherry Jubilee (June 5) as well as popular evening events like Carnival Nights (August 15), The Great Big BOO (September 25), and North Pole Nights (November 21). Tickets must be purchased at the front gate with proof of Gilroy residency. For more information, visit GilroyGardens.org/locals.
“At Gilroy Gardens, we really do love our locals!” stated Hoa Minh Le, President and General Manager of Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park. “All Gilroy residents are fortunate to have this very special place right here in their own back yard to explore and enjoy all year long.”
Gilroy Gardens is a nonprofit educational organization, and all Memberships are tax-deductible.
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About Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and California’s only horticultural theme park. Founded by Michael Bonfante, the park offers a unique family experience centered around trees and plants with an emphasis on local history. The park features over 40 rides and attractions and more than 10,000 trees, including the world-famous Circus Trees, as well as special events throughout the year. For more information, visit GilroyGardens.org.
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