Dahlia Society of California, San Francisco
The first California chapter of the American Dahlia Society
EST. 1917
DSC: Caretakers of the Dahlia Dell in Golden Gate Park
Society volunteers grow and maintain over 700 named dahlia varieties in this free 100 year old public garden.
The Dahlia: Celebrating 100 years as the Official Flower of San Francisco
The DSC is honored to kick of this landmark milestone with special events planned.
Upcoming Events:
Monthly Member Meeting
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
7:30PM–9PM
County Fair Building (Classroom), Golden Gate Park
DSC Members-Only
The Dahlia Society of California meets the second Tuesday of every month, except January. We learn what to do (and what not to do) with our tubers and dahlias from the experts in our society. Members can attend in person or on Zoom. If coming in person, we meet in the County Fair Building classroom located off the parking lot at 10th Ave. and Lincoln. Walk through chainlink gate to small courtyard. The classroom door is on your left.
Tuber & Plant Sale
Saturday, April 25, 2026
10AM–12PM *(ends earlier if we sell out)
County Fair Building, Golden Gate Park
FREE ADMISSION
Each spring, the Dahlia Society of California holds its annual Tuber and Plant Sale. Here you’ll find a variety of dahlia tubers and young plants for sale at low prices. Pictures are displayed, so you can see what your bloom will look like. These tubers and plants are donated by members of the society. Proceeds support the Dahlia Society of California. Jumpstart your garden with young plants ready to “plug and play.” Come early for best selection! We often sell out quickly at this popular event.
Save the Date:
Annual Dahlia Show
Sat and Sun, August 15 and 16, 2026
10AM to 5PM Sat; 10AM to 4PM Sun
County Fair Building (Main Room), Golden Gate Park
FREE ADMISSION
Each summer, on the third weekend in August, the Dahlia Society of California draws thousands of visitors to its annual show in the enormous Hall of Flowers. Growers from all over the state bring their best blooms. Blooms in all categories are judged and awarded ribbons, including the elusive “Best in Show.” Other categories: Best Photo; People’s Choice Award; Best Arrangement; Best Junior Bloom; and “Nature’s Oddities.” You must be a member to compete, but the public is welcome to see this eye-popping event.
Est. 1917
“… to unite ALL parties acceptable to one another without regard to sex, occupation or profession, who feel an interest in Dahlia culture, especially for its own sake; … to work together in a spirit of helpfulness and co-operation; to the end that public taste may be stimulated, our homes made more attractive and beautiful, and that the glory of our state may be magnified”.
Membership
Volunteer at the Dell
We are always looking for volunteers to help us maintain the Dahlias located at the Dell in Golden Gate Park.
You must be a member to volunteer.
Become a Member
Learn from some of the most knowledgeable Dahlia growers and hybridizers in the world, get tips for growing in our unique Bay Area climate, and connect with other local dahlia growers. All levels are welcome!
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