Descanso Announces New Entertainment Experience

Descanso Gardens, the iconic L.A.-area botanic garden, will be radiant this fall and winter when “Enchanted: Forest of Light” debuts. For 43 nights, starting Nov. 25, 2016, Descanso’s hallmark oak trees and botanic collections will be the stars of this exciting light show event.

Two theatrical lighting houses — with extensive credentials in concert and high-impact light show spectaculars — are creating 12 unique lighting experiences that illuminate some of Descanso’s most beloved locations, including the Oak Grove, the Lake, Rose Garden and Camellia Forest. Visitors will stroll along a one-mile walk through the Gardens to see these large-scale light displays. Three of these displays will be interactive, allowing visitors to manipulate the lights and sounds.

Descanso Gardens anticipates 100,000 visitors will attend “Enchanted: Forest of Light.” This multi-generational experience, designed to delight all ages, will be presented daily starting Friday, Nov. 25, through Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017. Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. “Enchanted: Forest of Light” will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Tickets go on sale to the general public Sept. 1, 2016. Tickets are $28 for adults, $24 seniors 65 and older and children 3-17; free for children 2 and under. Members of Descanso Gardens will enjoy discounts on tickets and the opportunity to purchase tickets early.

Some of the installations are still in development. But highlights confirmed include the Symphony of Oaks, which invites visitors to manipulate the sounds and lights in the Oak Grove. The walk concludes with a spectacular light display in Descanso’s iconic Japanese Garden, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. And the evening isn’t complete without a stop for hot cocoa (or an adult beverage) and snack at the illuminated Lakeside Lounge in the Oak Woodland!

“‘Enchanted: Forest of Light’ will be the first of its kind on the West Coast. We are excited for Los Angeles to see Descanso in a new light,” said Juliann Rooke, chief operations officer. “Nature takes center stage in ‘Enchanted: Forest of Light’!”

Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. Admission is $9 for adults; $6 for seniors and students with a school I.D.; $4 for children 5 to 12, and free for members and children 4 and younger. For information, call (818) 949-4200 or visit descansogardens.org. Descanso Gardens is a member-supported garden accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

About Descanso Gardens

Founded as a public garden in 1953, Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. Descanso Gardens is open daily (closed Christmas) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults; $6 for seniors and students with a school I.D.; $4 for children 5 to 12, and free for ages 4 and younger.

Descanso Gardens is a member-supported garden accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Join Descanso Gardens and enjoy free admission and early entry year-round. Information: (818) 949-4200 or descansogardens.org.