Military Family Day Brings Joy and Connection at Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Dozens of military families came together at Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage yesterday to celebrate Military Child Month during a special Family Day event. Co-hosted by Blue Star Families—the nation’s largest military family support organization—the celebration aimed to strengthen military communities and create lasting memories for families who often face unique challenges.

Mickalene Gallagher, the Director of Sunnylands Center & Gardens, welcomed guests and highlighted the importance of the event. "Today we are having one of our partner events—a family day for military families—and we're partnering with Blue Star Families," she said. The day was packed with a variety of activities designed exclusively for military families, creating a space where they could relax, reconnect, and feel supported by the broader community.

Maggie Meza, Executive Director for Blue Star Family's San Diego chapter, emphasized the organization’s mission. "Blue Star Families supports our military families by connecting them to the community and giving them that sense of belonging," she explained. She noted that events like these are crucial, especially for families who endure long periods of separation due to military duties.

The event not only provided fun and memorable experiences for children, spouses, and parents but also offered a moment of gratitude and recognition for the sacrifices military families make every day. As one family member expressed, spending the day together in such a beautiful setting—with the historic backdrop and scenic mountain views—brought joy and a deep sense of community support.

This celebration at Sunnylands Center & Gardens serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement and the ongoing commitment to honor and support those who serve our nation. With more events planned in the future, military families in the area can look forward to additional opportunities for connection and celebration.