Redwood supporters gathered in Golden Gate Park grove, raising over $725,000 for the forests
Golden hour filtered through the towering trees of Golden Gate Park’s National AIDS Memorial Grove as guests arrived at Save the Redwoods League’s annual Take Me to the Trees celebration—an unforgettable evening of music, meaning, and momentum for redwood conservation.
Held in San Francisco on May 3rd, under a diaphanous tent that seemed to breathe with the forest, the celebration brought together nature lovers, conservation champions, and long-standing League partners for a night filled with connection and purpose.
An artful start
Over 275 guests arrived in creative and festive attire, the trees providing refuge from a blustery Bay Area afternoon. Live jazz created a welcoming atmosphere while folks mingled by the bright and playful “rockin’ shroom” photo booth, sipping beverages crafted by sponsors who share the redwood spirit. Other guests carefully paced the grove with their eyes peeled for the original artworks hidden throughout the venue as part of a collaborative Art ‘n’ Seek.
Early arrivers also had the chance to don headphones and join certified forest therapy guide Wendy Figone for forest bathing sessions. The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” encourages focus on sensory engagement and the magic of mindfulness as a therapeutic act. “I’m feeling very mellow,” one guest remarked as they finished a session and headed to the dining tent.
Inside the tent, the décor drew inspiration from the forest—floral arrangements complemented a rich purple and lime palette in a nod to the magic of spring in the redwoods. A beautifully presented dinner by Work of Art Catering reflected the season’s flavors. The creamy English pea risotto featured fiddleheads, commonly found in and around the redwood forests we love.
Grounded and uplifted
As the music faded out and mics were activated, the air was charged with anticipation. Up to the stage came Chairman Greg Sarris of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, a presenting sponsor of the event. Chairman Sarris offered profound reflections on connection, responsibility, and trust—highlighting a deep and continuing partnership with the League across multiple land stewardship projects.
League Board Chair Sara Clark then welcomed guests and introduced new League president and CEO, Steve Mietz. Having started his role just five days earlier, Mietz called on the community to embrace the same tenacious and audacious optimism that brought the Redwoods Rising project to life during his time with Redwood National and State Parks. The room was attentive and excited as he reminded League supporters that bold, positive action is our most powerful tool in this pivotal time for climate and conservation.
District 5 Supervisor Lynda Hopkins of Sonoma County added her voice in enthusiastic and emotional support of the League’s many land protection projects in the region, then shared a poetic tribute to the enduring lifespans and legacy of redwoods.
A big boost for Monte Rio and beyond
Energy soared during the live auction, with friendly bidding battles over one-of-a-kind redwood experiences. The moment was elevated further by an awe-inspiring video highlighting the Monte Rio Redwoods Expansion, a transformational project that will secure and restore a connective puzzle piece of redwood forest in Sonoma County, filling in a crucial gap to link more than 34 square miles of protected wildlife habitat and parkland.
Just before the fund-a-need portion of the night, Chairman Sarris returned to the mic to announce an incredible $100,000 matching gift from Graton Rancheria, noting the opportunity to restore health and cultural significance to these lands. With renewed excitement and generosity, wave after wave of paddle raises contributed more than $725,000 in support of Save the Redwoods League’s mission by night’s end.
Dancing the night (semi-silently) away
Guests finally made their way back to the grove, where neon lights bathed the trees to set the stage for a groovy silent disco. Wireless headphones and a surprise inflatable air dancer turned the grove into a surreal and joyful dance floor. Laughter echoed as friends old and new switched between channels featuring rock and disco tunes. Some couldn’t get enough, asking if they could bring the flashing headphones home with them.
From forest bathing to forest beats, Take Me to the Trees 2025 was more than a celebration. It was a testament to what it means to come together for something bigger than ourselves. The League thanks every guest, donor, partner, artist, and sponsor who made this magical evening possible. Together, we are helping the redwoods thrive!
