General Information
Age: Classes are intended for participants 16 years and older unless otherwise noted. (Centennial Farm is open to the public, but we ask that you do not leave your children unattended on the farm.)
Location: Silo Building at Centennial Farm, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
Cost: Fees for each class vary and are noted in the class description.
Refund Policy: No refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class.
November
Wicking Hydroponics for Soil-Free Gardening
Nov. 14
About the class:
Join the award-winning UC Master Gardener hydroponics team for an engaging class that takes hydroponic gardening to the next level. This session introduces the science of growing plants without soil through wicking, a simple process that draws nutrient-rich water up to the roots. The class will focus on wicking hydroponics, a versatile method that creates an ideal environment for growing a wide range of vegetables, especially root crops, without soil. Attendees will learn the fundamentals of wicking systems, identify the best materials to use and explore different options for building a system at home. The class will also cover essential plant care and maintenance. Whether you have a small patio, a balcony or limited outdoor space, wicking hydroponics offers a space-efficient, waterwise and sustainable way to grow fresh food year-round.
When:
Saturday, Nov. 14
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Monday, Nov. 9
About the speaker:
The UC Master Gardener hydroponics team is the 2026 recipient of the statewide UC Master Gardener Search for Excellence Award. As a team of local gardening enthusiasts, they are dedicated to teaching research-based gardening practices and helping the community grow with confidence. Trained by the University of California Cooperative Extension, they provide trusted guidance to gardeners of all skill levels and are committed to sharing practical knowledge through education and outreach.
Tools and materials:
A $7 fee covers lecture and educational handouts.
Refund policy:
There will be no refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class maximum:
30 participants
Meeting location:
Centennial Farm Silo Building
Make It, Take It: Cowboy Candy & Balsamic-Onion Jam with UC Master Food Preservers
Nov. 21
About the class:
Learn safe, science-based food preservation techniques in this hands-on workshop as you prepare and can two delicious recipes to take home! You’ll make candied jalapeños, also known as “cowboy candy,” featuring an irresistible combination of sweet heat that’s perfect for toppings, dips and spreads. You’ll also prepare balsamic-onion jam, a rich, savory-sweet spread featuring onions, maple syrup, apple juice and tangy balsamic vinegar. Along the way, you’ll learn essential canning techniques, proper processing methods and safe storage practices.
When:
Saturday, Nov. 21
Time:
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Friday, Nov. 13
About the instructors:
Volunteers from the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Food Preservers of Orange County will provide instruction and information. The Master Food Preserver (MFP) program is a public service community outreach initiative providing up-to-date information on food safety and preservation. For information about the MFP program, please visit ucanr.edu/sites/MFPOC/.
Tools and materials:
$45 class fee covers ingredients, handouts and two canning jars with lids and rings. Knives will be provided, but you may bring your own if preferred. Aprons are highly recommended. Tied-back hair and closed-toe shoes are required.
Refund policy:
There will be no refunds for cancellations made within seven (7) days of a class. For cancellations made prior, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class maximum:
20 participants
Meeting location:
Centennial Farm Silo Building
December
Make It, Take It: DIY Winter Wreaths (Session 1)
Dec. 5
About the class:
Embrace the magic of the holiday season by creating a fresh winter wreath in the beautiful Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm. This class has become a beloved tradition at Centennial Farm and is sure to be a memorable activity for friends and family to enjoy together! All fresh greens, materials and instruction will be provided for this hands-on course to help you create a delightful wreath.
When:
Saturday, Dec. 5
Time:
9:30 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Sunday, Nov. 29
About the speaker:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD, is an accomplished professional floral designer with experience in every field of floral design and a specialty in wedding florals. As a freelance designer, Gregory’s custom arrangements and stylish designs have brightened homes, offices, holiday and community events, and wedding ceremonies (700 happy couples and counting) for more than 30 years. Each December, she lends her talents to the Fiesta Float Company, helping to create floats for the Rose Parade. She is also a board director for the Southwest chapter of the American Institute of Floral Design, a certified floral evaluator and judge, and has served as a judge at the Orange County and San Diego County fairs.
Tools and materials:
An $85 fee covers materials and any handouts. Ribbon and décor selection will be limited – feel free to bring your own to personalize your winter wreath. We recommend participants bring their own pruners and gloves.
Refund policy:
There will be no refunds for cancellations made within seven days of a class. For cancellations made earlier, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class maximum:
30 participants
Meeting location:
Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm
Make It, Take It: DIY Winter Wreaths (Session 2)
Dec. 5
About the class:
Embrace the magic of the holiday season by creating a fresh winter wreath in the beautiful Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm. This class has become a beloved tradition at Centennial Farm and is sure to be a memorable activity for friends and family to enjoy together! All fresh greens, materials and instruction will be provided for this hands-on course to help you create a delightful wreath.
When:
Saturday, Dec. 5
Time:
1 – 3:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Sunday, Nov. 29
About the speaker:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD, is an accomplished professional floral designer with experience in every field of floral design and a specialty in wedding florals. As a freelance designer, Gregory’s custom arrangements and stylish designs have brightened homes, offices, holiday and community events, and wedding ceremonies (700 happy couples and counting) for more than 30 years. Each December, she lends her talents to the Fiesta Float Company, helping to create floats for the Rose Parade. She is also a board director for the Southwest chapter of the American Institute of Floral Design, a certified floral evaluator and judge, and has served as a judge at the Orange County and San Diego County fairs.
Tools and materials:
An $85 fee covers materials and any handouts. Ribbon and décor selection will be limited – feel free to bring your own to personalize your winter wreath. We recommend participants bring their own pruners and gloves.
Refund policy:
There will be no refunds for cancellations made within seven days of a class. For cancellations made earlier, only the class fee will be refunded. Booking fees are nonrefundable.
Class maximum:
30 participants
Meeting location:
Millennium Barn at Centennial Farm