Descanso Gardens is a little farther from our local area, but this is one Southern California outing that I think is absolutely worth the drive.
Carved and Enchanted Forest of Light are two of my favorite seasonal events, and tickets for both experiences are now on sale. These can make a memorable family night, but they’re also a great option for a date night when you want to do something a little different.
This year, Descanso Gardens has added a new flexible ticket option that makes planning ahead much easier.
For the first time, visitors can purchase an Anytime Ticket without selecting a specific date. You can lock in your ticket now, then decide which evening works best later. It’s especially helpful for families juggling school schedules, sports, work, and all the other things that tend to fill up the calendar.
Purchasing in July also brings the best Anytime Ticket pricing of the season.
Throughout July, Anytime Tickets are $45 for Descanso Gardens members and $65 for non-members. In August, those prices increase to $65 for members and $85 for non-members.
Timed tickets are also available for visitors who already know when they would like to attend. July member pricing ranges from $19 to $42 for adults and $9 to $27 for children, depending on the date and time. Non-member tickets range from $29 to $52 for adults and $19 to $37 for children.
Children ages 2 and younger are free, although they still need a ticket.
When Are Carved and Enchanted Forest of Light?
Carved will take place nightly from October 2 through November 1, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m.
Enchanted Forest of Light will run from November 22, 2026, through January 9, 2027, with event hours from 5:30 to 10 p.m.
That gives families plenty of time to plan a fall visit to Carved or a holiday outing to Enchanted, but popular evenings can sell out, especially closer to Halloween and Christmas.
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What’s New at Carved
Carved will return with some changes this season, including a new location for Rhizome in the Oak Grove.
The labyrinth will also feature new sculptures by Helsinki-based artist Alexander Reichstein. His installations are designed to create an immersive experience that visitors of all ages can explore together.
Carved has become a popular fall tradition at Descanso, combining glowing pumpkins, artistic displays, and nighttime garden paths in a setting that feels festive without being overly scary.
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Enchanted Forest of Light Celebrates 10 Years
This holiday season marks the tenth anniversary of Enchanted Forest of Light, and Descanso Gardens is celebrating with several new additions.
Visitors can expect a new laser light show on the Main Lawn, ending with a snowfall finale. Tom Fruin’s colorful, illuminated Houses will move to the Oak Grove, and Giant Koi will appear in the Garden of Good Fortune in honor of the Japanese Garden’s 60th anniversary.
A Holiday Market featuring local craftspeople is also planned for December 2 through December 6 on the Main Lawn. The market will be open during the day and during Enchanted evening hours.
Enchanted Forest of Light is one of those experiences that feels special for kids and adults. There’s plenty for families to enjoy, but it can also be a really beautiful date night, especially if you take your time walking through the displays.
Descanso Gardens Has Summer Fun, Too
You don’t have to wait until fall to visit.
Hundreds of sunflowers are being planted for summer visitors, and misters will be running throughout the gardens to help guests stay cool. New Twilight Tickets also offer reduced-price admission from 5 to 7 p.m., when the temperatures begin to drop and the gardens take on that beautiful evening glow.
Farmhouse at Descanso is also offering a seasonal summer menu featuring fresh fruits and vegetables.
Whether you plan a summer evening visit, a fall trip to Carved, or a holiday night at Enchanted Forest of Light, Descanso Gardens is a lovely place to slow down and enjoy something outside the usual routine.
It’s a bit of a drive from our area, but in my opinion, it’s one that’s worth making.
Ticket Information
Tickets for Carved and Enchanted Forest of Light are available through Descanso Gardens.
Descanso Gardens is located at:
1418 Descanso Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Regular garden hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Timed ticket prices vary by date and entry time. Anytime Ticket pricing is lowest when purchased during July.
Children ages 2 and younger are free but require a ticket.
If you’ve never experienced Carved or Enchanted Forest of Light, this is a great year to finally make plans to go.
Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
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