Originally shut down during World War II, the Necklace of Lights circling Lake Merritt fell into complete disrepair and remained non functional functional for many years, The Lake Merritt Breakfast club started a campaign in the 1980’s to raise money to restore the iconic Necklace of Lights that surrounds our wonderful Lake Merritt, the Jewel of the East Bay.
The Lake Merritt Breakfast Club has been an active supporter of making improvements to the Lake Merritt Park experience since 1933. We have directed many projects which aim to repair, develop, and improve all facets of Lake Merritt for future generations to come.
The Lake Merritt Breakfast Club began an ambitious project in the 1940's to create America’s first children’s storybook themed playground on the shores of Lake Merritt. Thanks to our many club members and successful fundraisers, we succeeded in creating Children’s Fairyland. Consisting of nearly 40 storybook themed sets, rides, animals and 10 acres of gardens, Children’s Fairyland will delight visitors of all ages.
