After a two-year pause during the coronavirus pandemic, Sunnylands Center & Gardens is reviving its free Family Days with an April 24 celebration of desert birds, bugs, and plant life.

Family Day: In the Gardens runs from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features a variety of activities tied to the ecosystems of the desert, including:

• Guided bird walks at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. with knowledgeable birders. The one-hour walks introduce guests to the many local and migratory bird species in the Sunnylands gardens.
• Opportunities to speak with Master Gardeners from the University of California, Riverside.
• The creation of a community mural with artist Tysen Knight that is inspired by the colors and shapes of the desert environment.
• Insect and reptile exploration stations.
• Designing your own Family Day puzzle with environmental educator Tania Marien.
• Building a bee out of recycled materials with the help of the S.C.R.A.P. Gallery.

The public is also welcome to use a variety of toys and games that will be placed on the Great Lawn. Visitors are encouraged to dress for warm weather, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated for a fun and safe family outing.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens is located at 37977 Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage.

Following the Family Day on Sunday, April 24, Sunnylands will close for nine days, from April 25 to May 3, to host a retreat in cooperation with the HIV Cure Accelerator in Africa Partnership.

The retreat, titled Gene Therapy-Based Cures for HIV and Sickle Cell Disease, will convene approximately thirty global experts in research, clinical, policy, and commercial issues related to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sickle cell disease (SCD).

The number of retreat participants will require the use of Sunnylands Center as a meeting space.  Along with the Center & Gardens’ closure, tours of the Annenberg home will not be available from April 25 to May 3 and wellness programs, such as yoga and tai chi, will not take place during those dates.