Shields Date Garden Celebrates National California Date Month with Educational Forum and Farm Tour

Shields Date Garden hosted an educational forum today to mark National California Date Month, shining a spotlight on one of the Coachella Valley’s most iconic crops — dates.

The event featured presentations from chefs and health experts, including Dr. Sonali Ruder, who spoke about the nutritional benefits of incorporating dates into everyday meals.

“Dates are filled with important nutrients that are good for our health,” Dr. Ruder said. “Fiber, potassium, magnesium — all of these things are important for heart health. Replacing refined sugars with California dates can help control sugar cravings while supporting overall wellness.”

Many attendees were local residents eager to learn more about the fruit’s history and health perks. Palm Desert resident Lori Sounders Rogers said she left inspired to add dates to her pre-workout routine, noting how the crop has earned international recognition.

The day also included an interactive farm tour at Aziz Farms in Thermal. Owner Mark Tadros said the goal was to highlight both the crop’s agricultural importance and the workers behind it.

“It’s really important to buy dates from California and not only learn what makes them good for you but also see how they’re grown and who’s behind the work,” Tadros said.

Organizers hope the forum will encourage more people to enjoy what many call “nature’s candy” — while supporting local farmers and honoring the Valley’s agricultural roots.