By day, Descanso blossoms and chitters with cheerful and welcoming, sunlit landscapes. By night, Enchanted Forest of Light transforms the gardens into an entirely different realm of magic, mystery, and incandescence. Returning favorites and fresh delights Expect to see popular returning installations, including an entire town of magical “stained glass” houses by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin; sparkling geometric installations from HYBYCOZO; Flower Power on the Promenade; and exquisite lighting effects in the Ancient Forest. A magical route through the garden Preview the route that takes you through some of the most beloved parts of Descanso. De-light-fully delicious food and drinks Click here to check out the menu at Enchanted. If you would like to dine at our new restaurant Farmhouse, click here to make a reservation. Special entertainment Enjoy live entertainment on December 10 and 11 when Yachty by Nature takes the stage at 6pm and 7:45pm, all included with admission to Enchanted. Rain or shine – Enchanted lights up the night Enchanted is a “rain-or-shine” event that stays open even in inclement weather Tickets are non-refundable, have timed entry, and must be purchased in advance Dress for warmth. Enchanted Forest of Light can be unusually chilly from the fabled breeze off the lake, or due to some mystic bewitched weather spell. We recommend cozy coats and sweaters. Hot drinks and other delicious treats will be available for purchase Dates and entry times Dates: Open now–January 4, 2026 from 5:30–10pm, closed December 24–25 Entry times: 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm, 8:30pm
Audience Role
Observer.
Ages: All ages
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2
Years on EI
About Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is a story of plants and the people who loved them for their life-giving utility and their great natural beauty. While the tale unfolds over centuries, the connecting thread — from the indigenous people who relied on the plentiful oaks for food and their way of life to the 20th-century entrepreneur who sowed the seeds of a cultural institution — is a deep-seated love for this evocative and distinctive place. Descanso’s evolution into a botanic garden, open to the public and nationally accredited as a “museum of living collections,” is the most recent chapter in the rich history of this landscape. Descanso Gardens remains an oasis of beauty, both rugged and refined. In its eloquent landscapes, vignettes, and vistas we can experience firsthand moments in the epic story of humans’ relationships with the natural world and enjoy a refuge of stunning beauty.