Descanso Gardens - La Cañada Flintridge, California

Daphne Kurtuluş

Very beautiful place. My mother (who is quite old) used to walk around here with her grandfather I assume when it opened. This place is her safe haven. I love it as well and kind of miss it before it became really capitalized. The holiday events such as winter and Halloween are very fun. They have really grown and now Descanso is always busy. Growing up, it was always empty unless there was an event. I am glad people are appreciating this place more. And by the way, the tulips in spring ARE EVERYTHING.

Brenda Moreno

Beautiful, peaceful, organized, great light shows for the Enchanted Forest event. There are several stations, you won't get bored. It's dusty, don't bring white shoes! We spent a good 2 hours touring the gardens, taking pictures, and sipping on hot chocolate. Very nice for date night. Family friendly well. Some of the children can get rowdy and overtake the exhibits but they tend to move along quickly to the next place. This is great for a slow stroll. Don't miss the miniature trains too!

Enrique Herndon

I had a magical evening at the "Enchanted Forest of Light" at Descanso Gardens! The event is a stunning one-mile journey through beautifully illuminated gardens, featuring unique light displays that truly bring the landscape to life. Each themed area, from the mesmerizing field of color-changing tulips to the enchanting Ancient Forest, was a feast for the senses.
The atmosphere was serene, enhanced by soft music that complemented the breathtaking visuals. I loved the interactive installations, especially the stained glass-inspired sculptures that added a whimsical touch. There were plenty of spots for photos, making it perfect for capturing memories.
The event also offers delicious snacks and warm beverages, adding to the cozy experience. Overall, "Enchanted Forest of Light" is a must-visit this holiday season—an unforgettable blend of art, nature, and holiday spirit!

Kristina C

We went for the Christmas light event.

Extremely nice property. The lights are so beautiful and the environment is calm. The property is also very clean and kid/family friendly.

If you’re looking for the Christmas vibe, this isn’t it.

I understand they need to maintain the garden but for $45 I don’t think it’s worth it.

They serve alcohol on the property as well. There is a decent drink and food selection.

Overall if you have the time and extra money go for it. If you’re looking for the holiday spirit go to something else.

CHRISTINA LYNN DOS REIS

Went to the Enchanted Forest of Light, displayed at the Descanso Gardens, and danced in the lights. It was amazing and beautiful, transforming you into another world of joy and happiness. Just take your time and experience each moment. The light designs were spectacular!

Joe Baltazar

Descanso Gardens Review: Carved & Enchanted

I visited Descanso Gardens for their Carved Halloween and Enchanted holiday events, and both were spectacular. Carved featured stunning, intricately carved pumpkins and glowing art installations that created a magical, festive atmosphere. Enchanted transformed the gardens into a winter wonderland with dazzling light displays, twinkling tunnels, and holiday music that felt truly enchanting.

Both events beautifully combined nature and creativity, making for unforgettable seasonal experiences. Highly recommend!

I’ll definitely make them a yearly experience.

Olive T

We spent Friday, the 13th at Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Garden. We purchased tickets for 5:30pm admission time. We arrived at the parking lot at 5:15pm and found free parking immediately. At the entrance, you can buy coffee, hot cocoa, some alcoholic beverage and snacks like churro. They did not check our bags. There were 10 exhibition venues to explore. Each one had a complete different light show and theme. The music playing in different areas matched the installation they had in place. There were signs and people to guide you if needed at each venue. The first venue was the flower power with lighted tulips changing colors in the tune of music in the background. Slight walk to the garden entrance is where you will find shops and food vendors and bathrooms. The last venue was the Garden of Good Fortune.

As noted by some reviewers, Enchanted Forest of Light is not a holiday focused experience and you will not find any religious symbols or music. The light show is about the magical effects of lights in nature during winter evenings. Much of the gardens were decorated with some kind of illuminations. The walkthrough took about 1-1/2 hours. Ticket was $45 this year for non-member adults. Kids and family friendly place. Great picture opportunities for your Instagram feed and/or dating apps. Charge your phone to full capacity. Do note that the ground is uneven and bumpy in some part of the paths and several spots are trip hazards. It does get chilly at the garden, so make sure to layer/bundle up.

Bottom line: walking through Descanso Gardens with family and friends at night, full moon hovering above our heads, surrounded by the visually stunning, mesmerizing lights illuminated through the garden/forest, some of us felt like little fairies wandering in the magical ancient enchanted forests.

Viviana H

If you need to getaway this is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. Depending on time of the day and season of the year you’ll see blooming vegetation or not.

This is a very affordable visit with entry of $15 and if you’re a senior or student it’s $11, $5 for kids, and free for those under age 5.

Parking is FREE! There is quite a bit of parking especially if you come after the morning people leave.

Enchanted Forest at night has pretty lights but during daytime you won’t see much. Similarly when not in bloom there will be little to see at Rose Garden.

There will be art exhibits at the top of the very steep hill.

There’s also a convenience store for quick bites and drinks near the entrance & restrooms.

Restrooms are found throughout the gardens and they’re Ok but there’s always a smell IYKYK.