Before children head off to school and pets settle into their morning routines, a dedicated network is already hard at work delivering one of life's most essential resources.
Clean, reliable water touches nearly every part of daily life, yet few residents ever see what it takes to keep it flowing.
From brushing teeth before school to filling a dog's water dish, it plays a role in routines both big and small.
That’s one reason the Yorba Linda Water District (YLWD) has turned its annual Open House into one of the area’s most anticipated family events.
Through interactive exhibits, tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activities designed for all ages, the District invites residents to discover the people and technology behind the safe, reliable water service that keeps our community running every day.
According to Mark Toy, General Manager of the Yorba Linda Water District, the event was created to help residents better understand an essential service that often goes unnoticed.
“Our Open House was created to bring the community behind the scenes and show people what it really takes to deliver safe, reliable water every day,” he says.
“We wanted to create a fun, interactive experience where residents could meet the people behind the service and see firsthand the work happening right here in their own community.”
In operation since 1909, YLWD serves approximately 74,000 residents, providing water and sewer services across its extended service area.
Behind that responsibility is a team of professionals who oversee a state-of-the-art treatment facility, maintain extensive infrastructure, and support emergency preparedness efforts, ensuring water quality standards are met around the clock.
For kids, the Open House offers a chance to explore a world they may never have considered.
For parents and grandparents, it provides insight into the systems that support everyday life.
The event transforms complex topics into engaging experiences that make learning memorable.
Education remains a major focus of the District’s outreach efforts.
Through school visits, classroom presentations, career fairs, and tours, YLWD helps students understand how water travels from its source to homes and businesses.
Those lessons often spark curiosity about science, engineering, environmental stewardship, and careers in public service.
The District also works to help residents appreciate the many steps involved in managing water both before and after it reaches their homes.
Understanding that process fosters a greater appreciation for the value of water and the critical infrastructure required to deliver it safely and reliably every day.
The 2025 Open House drew more than 500 attendees and featured activities that appealed to every age group.
Community partners joined the event as well, highlighting the collaborative efforts that support public services throughout the region.
One of the biggest successes of the day was seeing multiple generations learn side by side.
Children explored hands-on demonstrations while adults gained a closer look at the technology and systems that help ensure reliable water and sewer services every day.
A favorite guest also returned to delight attendees.
“Ricky the Rambunctious Raindrop” posed for photos, greeted visitors, and added plenty of fun to an already lively atmosphere.
Beyond the activities, one of the event’s most meaningful aspects is the opportunity for residents to meet the people who make local water service possible.
“These conversations and interactions help build trust, transparency, and understanding,” explains Mark.
“Residents get to ask questions, learn about the work happening behind the scenes, and see firsthand the passion our employees have for serving the community.”
That personal connection helps transform an often-invisible utility into something much more relatable.
Visitors leave with a better understanding of the expertise, planning, and teamwork required to provide dependable service every day.
Looking ahead, YLWD is preparing an even larger experience for its 2026 Open House.
Returning favorites will include tours, demonstrations, live music, hands-on activities, and opportunities to meet District staff.
Visitors will also have the chance to explore the District’s nationally-recognized PFAS Water Treatment Plant and learn more about the innovative technologies being used to protect water quality.
Whether attending with children, bringing along grandparents, or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, visitors will find plenty to enjoy—and perhaps learn something new along the way.
For first-time guests, Mark encourages them to come see the event for themselves.
“If you've never attended YLWD's Open House before, this is the year to see what everyone is talking about!”
The Yorba Linda Water District Open House will take place on Saturday, October 3, at the District headquarters located at 1717 E. Miraloma Avenue in Placentia.
Admission is free, making it an easy way for families to spend time together while discovering the remarkable story behind every drop of water.
Learn more about the Yorba Linda Water District by visiting https://www.ylwd.com/.