Irvine Harvest Heroes

Tanaka Farms · Second Annual

Irvine Harvest Heroes

Celebrating agricultural advocacy in Irvine — on Pumpkin Patch opening day.

Date Saturday, September 12, 2026
Ceremony & Lunch 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Check-in opens 10:00 AM
Where Tanaka Farms 5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612

This year's honorees

Two organizations that speak for Orange County growers

Our inaugural 2025 program honored Irvine's operating farms and nurseries. In 2026 the recognition turns to the advocacy organizations working to keep that farmland in production. Certificates are presented by Mayor Larry Agran in partnership with the City of Irvine Mayor's Office.

Orange County Farm Bureau

Representing local growers on water, land use, and labor — the county voice for family farms.

Western Growers Association

Advocating for the fresh produce growers who supply nearly half the nation's fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts.

From last year

Scenes from the 2025 ceremony

The inaugural Harvest Heroes recognition, held on opening day of the 2025 Pumpkin Patch, with certificates presented by the City of Irvine.

Mayor Larry Agran presenting a Certificate of Recognition to a representative of an honored organization.
Mayor Larry Agran presenting a certificate of recognition to Kenny and Glenn Tanaka.
A recipient holding a framed City of Irvine Certificate of Recognition beside Mayor Larry Agran.
Mayor Larry Agran presenting a certificate of recognition to a researcher from South Coast Research and Extension Center.
A family in Irvine Harvest Heroes t-shirts walking through the Tanaka Farms pumpkin patch on opening day.
Mayor Larry Agran presenting a certificate of recognition to a member of Irvine Ranch Conservancy.
Mayor Larry Agran presenting a City of Irvine Certificate of Recognition to two Tanaka Farms staff members on the farm stage.
Opening day in the patch, right after the ceremony.

Same day at the farm

Opening day of the Pumpkin Patch

Pick your own pumpkin

The patch opens for the season the same morning — wagon rides out to the field, and rows of pumpkins ready to pick.

Irvine vendors & displays

Educational displays and local vendors are set up across the farm through the afternoon.

Come dressed for the field

Dirt roads and open sun. Closed-toe shoes, hats, and water bottles are a good idea.

Get Pumpkin Patch tickets