Service Learning
Filoli's Service Learning program provides a free learning experience on a variety of topics, such as horticulture and garden tips and tricks, combined with an opportunity to volunteer to support Filoli. Enjoy time with family and friends, meet new people, be immersed in the beauty of Filoli, and give back to this treasured community resource through service.
There are no minimum requirements or minimum hours of service. Children are welcome to participate. Anyone is able to sign-up for just one program or as many as you like.
Summer Prep
May 5, 7, & 9, 2026
Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday | 9am–12pm
Filoli’s Service Learning is a chance for the local community to give back to the historic Estate. Volunteers will work alongside Filoli’s Horticulture Team to weed and mulch the Formal Garden while preparing beds for a beautiful summer season, and learn firsthand how to choose sustainable, colorful, and easy-care plants.
Tickets: Free; reservation required.
Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
Invasive Species with Citizen Science
Saturday, May 23, 2026
9am–12pm
Dive into a hands-on, educational experience as we work together to protect and preserve Filoli’s natural habitats. Explore the Natural Lands while searching for invasive species and contributing your findings to global citizen science efforts through iNaturalist.
Led by Filoli staff and a citizen science expert, this program will deepen your understanding of the vital role citizen science plays in environmental conservation. Learn how to identify and report invasive species while connecting with others passionate about protecting our ecosystems.
Please note: This session includes a 1-mile walk over uneven terrain.
Tickets: Free; Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
APGA Prep
June 3, 4, & 6, 2026
Wednesday, Thursday, & Saturday | 9am–12pm
As Filoli prepares to welcome garden professionals from across the country for the American Public Gardens Association National Conference, our Service Learning program invites community members to help ready the estate. Working alongside Filoli’s Horticulture Team, volunteers take part in hands-on garden care: mulching, weeding, path maintenance, and brick cleaning, helping ensure the historic gardens look their best.
Tickets: Free; reservation required.
Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
Seasonal Decor Prep
June 30 | 10am–12pm
July 1 | 10am–12pm & 5–7pm
Get hands-on and help Filoli bring the seasons to life! Carve faux pumpkins for our glowing Nightfall display and wrap gifts for our holiday trees. In this Service Learning program, you’ll create foam pumpkins that shine across the property and add festive flair to our décor. Just be comfortable using serrated tools! No art skills are necessary.
Tickets: Free; reservation required.
Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
Summer Refresh
August 4, 6, & 8, 2026
Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday | 9am–12pm
Filoli’s Service Learning is a chance for the local community to give back to the historic Estate. Work alongside Filoli’s Horticulture Team, weeding to prepare the ground for laying mulch, and laying fresh or augmenting existing mulch in cropped areas such as the Cutting Garden, or Vegetable Garden.
Tickets: Free; reservation required.
Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
Preparing for Fall
September 1, 3, & 5, 2026
Wednesday, Thursday, & Saturday | 9am–12pm
Filoli’s Service Learning program invites the local community to help care for the historic Estate. Working alongside Filoli’s Horticulture Team, volunteers will take part in meaningful garden projects such as harvesting plant materials for fall displays and donations, weeding to prepare beds, and laying or refreshing mulch in areas like the cutting and vegetable gardens.
Tickets: Free; reservation required.
Participants receive free admission to Filoli on the day of the program.
Corporate and Youth Groups
Now booking for 2026 corporate and youth groups!
