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Gilroy Gardens Alphabet Chapter 2: EFG
Our A-to-Z journey through Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park continues! Each month in 2026, we’re highlighting a new set of letters and sharing the rides, attractions, and experiences that make our park so special.
This time, we’re exploring E, F, and G. From our nonprofit park’s eco-friendly efforts, to magical family memories under the stars and a favorite park mascot, these letters are full of fun and discovery.
E is for Environment
Gilroy Gardens began as a tree nursery, and our founder Michael Bonfante’s love for nature is still at the heart of everything we do today. Even as we’ve grown into a family theme park, we’ve never lost our “roots” (get it?) when it comes to caring for the environment.
Gilroy Gardens is now home to over 10,000 trees (including the world-famous Circus Trees), and the lush green canopy they provide helps keep guests cool in the warm summer months—while providing a natural home for countless birds and other animals. Wherever possible, the trees and other plants in the park are watered using recycled water.
You’ll also find many water features throughout the park. Guests can splash and play at Water Oasis and Lakeside Splash, talk a walk through thundering Bonfante Falls, or enjoy a relaxing ride across Coyote Lake on our Paddle Boats.
At all of these attractions, sustainability flows too. There are powerful pumps that recycle all the water used in the park’s creeks and waterfalls. Both Water Oasis and Lakeside Splash have closed micro-watershed systems that clean, recycle and reuse water—so not a drop goes to waste! Kids can even learn more about the water cycle and ways to conserve water from the educational signs throughout these areas.
FUN FACT: The pump in Bonfante Falls recycles 5,000 gallons of water every minute!
Gilroy Gardens is a very unique place “where fun grows on trees”—and we remain dedicated to protecting the environment while creating unforgettable family fun.
What else starts with “E” at Gilroy Gardens?
- Axel Erlandson (the man who created the Circus Trees)
- Easter Celebration
- Explorer Program Self-Guided Field Trips
- The Emblem Tree (on the left side of Bonfante Falls)
F is for Family Camp Nights
Have you ever loved a theme park so much that you wished you could stay all night? At Gilroy Gardens, that wish comes true with Family Camp Nights.
Families pitch tents together, kids make new friends, and everyone enjoys a cozy dinner before heading into the park for a family-friendly movie (and popcorn!) under the stars. After a night of camping, the morning kicks off with some hands-on crafts and a tasty breakfast to fuel up for a full day of riding, exploring, and soaking up the fun inside the park.
Family Camp Nights at Gilroy Gardens are part sleepover, part theme park day, and all about making unforgettable family memories.
FUN ACTIVITIES: Looking for fun ways to keep the kids entertained during your next Family Camp Night? Check out some DIY camping games and activity ideas from Sugar Creek Glen Camping to get inspired!
What else can you find that starts with “F” at Gilroy Gardens?
G is for Gil
Meet Gil (short for Gilbert), one of our popular garlic bulb mascots and a true Gilroy Gardens favorite! Gil first appeared in 2007, born from the magic of the Santa Clara Valley’s rich soil.
Gil loves trees, especially the Four-Legged Giant you’ll spot in the park. And he really loves bringing smiles (and even some giggles) to everyone he meets. Gil also has a little sister named Roy (short for Royelle), and you may spot her in the park from time to time too. She’s the one with the glamorous sunglasses and garlic braid.
Be sure to keep an eye out for Gil and Roy during your next visit. You never know where they might pop up!
What else starts with “G” at Gilroy Gardens?
- Garlic Fries (get ‘em at Castroville Corners)
- Garlic Twirl
- Gilroy Reads Program
- The Great Big BOO!
- The Green Barn
- Group Events
Stay tuned for Chapter 3 of the Gilroy Gardens Alphabet, coming in March 2026!