Jardins Abertos started on May 20th 2017 as a guided walk organised by a small but very passionate team. With only 80 places available, over 3.000 people had applied within the first 48 hours after launch.
Visits to ten gardens were led by eight volunteer guides in a walk through different areas of the city, starting in Graça, following through Mouraria, Rossio, Avenida da Liberdade, Rua de O Século, and finishing in Praça das Flores, in Príncipe Real. The festival ended with a closing party with a DJ at Praça das Flores, where participants from different groups were able to share their experiences and exchange ideas about the initiative.
Jardins Abertos 2017 was a moment of undeniable sharing (especially of private gardens), encouraging greater social inclusion and a sense of belonging within an urban context, fostering community spirit around the gardens and strengthening the connection between residents, visitors, and the city.