Descanso: Enchanted Forest of Light 2026-2027

Descanso Gardens transforms into a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience each winter season with Enchanted: Forest of Light, running from late November through early January. The 150-acre botanical garden in La Canada Flintridge becomes a glowing landscape of illuminated art installations, light tunnels, reflective pools, and custom soundscapes designed to guide visitors through the garden after dark. Each section of the garden tells its own visual story. The California Sycamore Grove, the Rose Garden, the Oak Forest, and the Japanese Garden all receive distinct light treatments that make familiar daytime spaces completely unrecognizable at night. The annual experience has sold out years in advance in previous seasons and draws visitors from across the country. It has been called one of the best holiday light experiences in the United States. Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Canada Flintridge, about 15 minutes north of Pasadena via the 210 Freeway. Parking is available on-site. Timed entry tickets are required and sell out quickly — book well in advance at descansogardens.org. Children under 3 are free. The experience takes approximately 90 minutes to walk. Dress in layers as November and December evenings in the San Gabriel Mountains can be cold. Bring a jacket, wear comfortable shoes, and plan to arrive 10 minutes before your timed entry slot.