Although Descanso Gardens has canceled their infamous holiday event, Enchanted Forest of Light, they have made an effort to attract visitors with their new installations this season, running now through January 10th, 2021.
We’ve covered the announcement for this event, and you can find our article Here, but before we go into the details of the preview, we want to once again remind people that we are still within the thralls of a pandemic, and recommend people check out our article on ”If You Should Go Out” Here. While this event is not specifically metered to prevent participants, you do have to purchase your tickets in advance, and guests are required to be socially distanced at 6 feet or more with the location’s staff and other visitors. Additionally, all participants must be wearing masks at the event, and the establishment is cashless. Lastly, while they sell food in their cafe, no food is allowed to be eaten within the gardens, and if you want water bring your own because the drinking fountains have been shut down due to the pandemic.
As you enter the garden, you will see three floral arches, each adorned with unique floral wreath displays made of natural materials. A large wreath with whites and burnt oranges, a slightly smaller one with shades of blue, and the last one in the shape of a heart with pinks and oranges. This is a picture-perfect opportunity, especially if you time it when the sun is just right.
On the main lawn is Kaz Yokou Kitajima’s Wishing Tree, where patrons can write down their wishes for the new year on pink paper and attach it to some downed oak that has been repurposed for this lovely display. This year has been tough on many and the pink papers blowing in the wind filled my heart with hope for next year.
The pond area is not just home to koi fish and a couple of ducks. The new lawn residents include a deer family made of natural and recycled materials, brought to you by artist David Lovejoy. These sculptures hold a majesty all their own, and they are scattered about the area so make sure you say hello to each of them.
Another beauty that may be easy to miss is the Mirror Tree in the Camellia Forest. Small mirrors strung together dangle from the tree’s branches, reflecting light as the breeze passes through. This is likely what inspired the title of their seasonal offerings.
As always, the promenade features what’s in bloom this season. Camellias, toyon berries ginkgo, and fall foliage. Pretty round white orbs placed within the planters resemble large snow globes, another holiday icon. I wonder if they light up at night, though it wouldn’t matter since the garden closes at 5pm, around the time it gets dark, and when Enchanted would begin.
Everything said, despite their lack of any holiday lights this season, going to the Garden still makes for an enjoyable day. Walk around in nature and remember how beautiful this world truly is. Recognize that the seasons change and life is cyclical. Reflect on this past year, and encourage hope and light for a prosperous new year. We are all on this journey together no matter how far apart we must continue to be.
Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge is open daily from 9am-5pm. Tickets are $15 (adults), $11 (seniors/students) and $5 (children 5-12) and must be purchased in advance, including Free Tuesday Tickets for December 15th. This is a cashless establishment. Members do not require reservations. Boddy House, Sturt Haaga Gallery, and Enchanted Railroad are closed until further notice. Gift shop and Plant Patio is open from 10am-5pm. The Kitchen and other dining options are still open, though all food must be eaten in the picnic area in their parking lot. Bring water since they have closed all drinking fountains. Covid protocols to abide by include the standard: wear a mask and maintain a distance of 6 feet or more with staff and other visitors at all times.
Find out more information and purchase tickets Here.
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