Farm & Garden Classes
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
Hydroponics for the Home Gardener: Grow Anywhere, Anytime
Nov. 16
About the Class:
Join UCCE Master Gardeners for an engaging class on hydroponics, perfect for gardeners of all levels. Learn how to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water and discover innovative ways to repurpose household items to create your own simple Kratky hydroponic systems. Whether you have a small patio, a second-story balcony or a free spot indoors, hydroponic gardening is space-efficient and perfect for urban environments. This class will cover the fundamentals of hydroponics, including plant care, nutrient solutions, lighting requirements and system maintenance, and will empower you to integrate hydroponics into your gardening routine.
When:
Saturday, Nov. 16
Time:
1-3 p.m.
RSVP online by Nov. 13
About the Speakers:
The UCCE Master Gardeners are a team of local gardening enthusiasts dedicated to teaching gardening practices. Trained by the University of California Cooperative Extension, they provide advice to help gardeners of all skill levels. The UCCE Master Gardeners have presented at numerous horticultural events throughout Orange County and actively volunteer at Centennial Farm, where they help inspire others to incorporate gardening into their lives. They are committed to empowering the community through hands-on education and outreach.
Tools & materials:
$7 fee covers materials and any handouts.
Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 2 days (48 hours) of the class. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
40 participants
Say Cheese! Make Your Own Ricotta
Nov. 23
About the Class:
Have you ever wanted to make your cheese at home but thought it was too difficult? Join chef Vina in this interactive class and discover how easy it is to craft your homemade ricotta cheese. You’ll learn to work with fresh, readily available dairy ingredients, and explore the nutritional benefits of incorporating fresh cheese into your diet. Chef Vina will also demonstrate how to make a vibrant, freshly prepared pesto—an ideal companion to your ricotta. At the end of the class, you’ll take home your own small, handmade wheel of ricotta, a sample of delicious pesto and a couple of surprises for all attendees!
Participants will partner up during the class, so consider reserving spots for two when you register!
When:
Saturday, Nov. 23
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Nov. 20
About the Speakers:
Vina DiBernardo is a certified chef and magna cum laude graduate of Cal Poly Pomona in agriculture and food science. She is a hospitality instructor at Coastline College and the Orange County School of the Arts in the culinary arts & hospitality conservatory. Chef Vina also served as OC Fair’s culinary supervisor in 2021. Vina is all about highlighting fresh, local ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes.
Tools & materials:
$45 class fee covers ingredients and the use of equipment. Aprons are highly recommended. Tied-back hair and closed-toed shoes are required.
Refund policy – There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 2 days (48 hours) of the class. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants
DECEMBER
Make It, Take It – DIY Winter Wreaths (Session 1)
Dec. 7
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 tradition at Centennial Farm and will surely be a memorable activity for friends and family to join in on! All fresh greens, materials and instructions for this hands-on course will be provided to make a delightful wreath.
When:
Saturday, Dec. 7
Time:
9:30 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Nov. 30
About the Speakers:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD is an accomplished professional floral designer with experience in every field of floral design, with 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. In December, she lends her talents to the Rose Parade floats for Fiesta Float Company. 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 & materials:
$75 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 one (1) week of the class, as supplies and ingredients will have been ordered. For cancellations made before Nov. 30, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
30 participants
Make It, Take It – DIY Winter Wreaths (Session 2)
Dec. 7
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 tradition at Centennial Farm and will surely be a memorable activity for friends and family to join in on! All fresh greens, materials and instructions for this hands-on course will be provided to make a delightful wreath.
When:
Saturday, Dec. 7
Time:
1 – 3:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Nov. 30
About the Speakers:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD is an accomplished professional floral designer with experience in every field of floral design, with 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. In December, she lends her talents to the Rose Parade floats for Fiesta Float Company. 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 & materials:
$75 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 one (1) week of the class, as supplies and ingredients will have been ordered. For cancellations made before Nov. 30, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
30 participants
Make It, Take It – DIY Floral Holiday Centerpieces (Session 1)
Dec. 14
About the Class:
Embrace the holiday spirit by creating a festive DIY centerpiece at Centennial Farm! This fun, hands-on class offers a unique opportunity to gather with friends and family for a creative holiday experience. Led by certified floral designer Marie Gregory, you’ll receive expert guidance and all the materials needed to craft a stunning centerpiece. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home or create a thoughtful, handcrafted gift, this class will help you design a centerpiece that will be admired by all this holiday season. Feel free to bring your own ribbons or decorations to add a personal touch!
When:
Saturday, Dec. 14
Time:
9:30 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Dec. 7
About the Speakers:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD, CEJ is an accredited professional floral designer with many years of experience in various fields of the floral industry. Originally a wedding event designer, then shop owner, Gregory now works as a freelance designer and floral educator. One of her favorite jobs is designing with flowers and organics on the Pasadena Rose Parade floats each December. She is also an executive board director for the Southwest chapter of the American Institute of Floral Design and a certified floral evaluator and judge. She also enjoys judging the flower competitions at the Orange County and San Diego County fairs.
Tools & materials:
$95 fee covers all materials. Ribbon and décor selection will be limited; feel free to bring additional ribbons or decorations to personalize your holiday centerpiece. We recommend participants bring their own pruners and gloves.
Refund Policy:
There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within one (1) week of the class, as supplies will have been ordered. For cancellations made before Dec. 7, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants
Make It, Take It – DIY Floral Holiday Centerpieces (Session 2)
Dec. 14
About the Class:
Embrace the holiday spirit by creating a festive DIY centerpiece at Centennial Farm! This fun, hands-on class offers a unique opportunity to gather with friends and family for a creative holiday experience. Led by certified floral designer Marie Gregory, you’ll receive expert guidance and all the materials needed to craft a stunning centerpiece. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home or create a thoughtful, handcrafted gift, this class will help you design a centerpiece that will be admired by all this holiday season. Feel free to bring your own ribbons or decorations to add a personal touch!
When:
Saturday, Dec. 14
Time:
1 – 3:30 p.m.
RSVP online by Dec. 7
About the Speakers:
Marie Gregory AIFD, CFD, CEJ is an accredited professional floral designer with many years of experience in various fields of the floral industry. Originally a wedding event designer, then shop owner, Gregory now works as a freelance designer and floral educator. One of her favorite jobs is designing with flowers and organics on the Pasadena Rose Parade floats each December. She is also an executive board director for the Southwest chapter of the American Institute of Floral Design and a certified floral evaluator and judge. She also enjoys judging the flower competitions at the Orange County and San Diego County fairs.
Tools & materials:
$95 fee covers all materials. Ribbon and décor selection will be limited; feel free to bring additional ribbons or decorations to personalize your holiday centerpiece. We recommend participants bring their own pruners and gloves.
Refund Policy:
There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within one (1) week of the class, as supplies will have been ordered. For cancellations made before Dec. 7, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants
Truffle Making – Cocoa Couture for Your Holiday Party!
Dec. 21
About the Class:
Calling all chocoholics! What could be better than making and eating chocolate? Let’s take your chocolate obsession to the next level with this hands-on class taught by chef Vina at Centennial Farm. You’ll learn about chocolate’s origin, how to make your ganache and decorate with gourmet toppings.
In this two-hour class, we’ll measure, melt, mix, chill and roll truffles made with fair-trade cacao chocolate and silky cream. It’s sure to be a delicious experience to share with your loved one, friend or coworker, and just in time for the holidays! We will also provide gift boxes and ribbons to pack your scrumptious treats!
When:
Saturday, Dec. 21
Time:
10 a.m. – noon
RSVP online by Dec. 14
About the Speakers:
Vina DiBernardo is a certified chef and magna cum laude graduate of agriculture and food science from Cal Poly Pomona. She is a hospitality (culinary arts/baking and pastry) instructor at Coastline College in Orange County and is currently teaching at Orange County School of the Arts in the culinary arts & hospitality program. Vina also served as OC Fair’s culinary supervisor in 2021. Vina is passionate about fresh, local ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes.
Tools & materials:
$45 class fee covers ingredients and the use of equipment. Aprons are highly recommended. Tied-back hair and closed-toed shoes are required.
Refund Policy:
There will be NO refunds for cancellations made within 4 days (96 hours) of the class, as supplies and ingredients will have been ordered. For cancellations made before the deadline, only the class fee will be refunded, not booking fees.
Class Maximum:
20 participants