Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens – A Romantic Holiday Date Idea

Updated on Jan 4, 2022

If you want a magical date experience during the holidays, check out Descanso Gardens Enchanted: Forest of Light in La Canada Flintridge. It really is “enchanted”!

Logistics

You definitely should buy your tickets in advance as this does sell out almost every night. In 2017, tickets were $28 each. I think it was well worth it! Note that tickets are non-refundable and it’s a rain-or-shine event.

My biggest tip would be to dress very warmly because it gets much colder there than in other parts of Los Angeles, and you’re outside for almost the whole time.

The on-site parking lot was nearly full when we got there at around 8:15 PM, but there were still spots towards the back.

The tickets have set admission times, but once you get in, you may stay as long as you like until closing.

What Is It?

Descanso Gardens is a 151-acre botanical garden that originally was the property of newspaper magnate E. Manchester Boddy. It contains various sections including a rose garden, Japanese garden, Camellia collection, and Oak forest. During the day, it looks like this:

Descanso Gardens during the day
Descanso Gardens during the day

When I went during the day, it was blazing hot. There was less shade than you would expect there.

But during the time around Christmas, they light up the gardens at night with colorful displays, making it a much more spectacular experience.

Path at Descanso Gardens
Path at Descanso Gardens

There is a one-mile path that guides you through the exhibits, which consist of glowing objects or lit-up trees and interesting variations on that theme.

There are bars at various points where you can purchase alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. I had the hot cider with a shot of rum to start my journey.

Forest at Descanso Gardens
Forest at Descanso Gardens

Some exhibits are more spectacular than others but the overall experience is really good. The crowd consisted of mostly adults on dates and some families, but the exhibits are not as kid-focused as the Zoo Lights show at the LA Zoo.

Glowing discs
Glowing discs

The highlight of the walk for us was a forest that was lit up with tiny green laser spots. It was almost impossible to photograph, and even if I could, I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise.  It really must be experienced in person!

Towards the end of the path was the Japanese Gardens with cool red ball lights.

The Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden

Overall, it’s a very sublime and romantic experience!

Afterward

Before you leave, check out the gift shop, which actually has some charming and cool stuff!

While you’re in the area, drive to Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena not too far away. This is a one-mile stretch of Santa Rosa Avenue with enormous trees that have been decorated with Christmas lights. Driving up this street is an appropriate end to an evening of enchantment.

Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena
Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena

Summary

I highly recommend Descanso Gardens Enchanted: Forest of Light as an excellent date idea. No, it’s not as spectacular as, say, Disney’s Phantasmic or the Main Street Electrical Parade. It’s more sublime and quiet, but still very cool and unusual… and romantic. If you have the right expectations, you and your date will really enjoy the experience.

What did you think of Descanso Gardens Enchanted: Forest of Light? Any questions? Please comment below! – Brian

Get the latest date ideas in L.A.

Subscribe to my posts. No ads or spam, Unsubscribe anytime.

Join 469 other subscribers

Or, join me on the LA Date Ideas Facebook Page or on Instagram!

Related Articles

A Really Romantic Date Idea: Sunset Horseback Riding at Griffith Park

A Really Romantic Date Idea: Sunset Horseback Riding at Griffith Park

If you're looking for a unique, fun, and super romantic date idea, how about a guided horseback ride at Griffith Park during sunset? It doesn't get much more romantic than that! Davee Hallinan is the owner of Good Pony, Inc. They offer private sunset and moonlight...

The Best Date Ideas in Malibu, Topanga, and the Pacific Palisades

The Best Date Ideas in Malibu, Topanga, and the Pacific Palisades

Malibu is a great place for an all-day or half-day date when you want to get away from it all without straying too far from the Los Angeles area. You get beautiful beaches and mountains, as well as great restaurants and other attractions. Check out these date ideas in...

Terranea: A Hidden Gem in Palos Verdes with Spectacular Hiking Trails

Terranea: A Hidden Gem in Palos Verdes with Spectacular Hiking Trails

The thing I love about Los Angeles is that I'm constantly discovering new things to do even though I'm a native. One such discovery for me is Terranea, a five-star resort in Palos Verdes. It offers beautiful grounds, great restaurants at a variety of price points, and...

See Some of L.A.’s Most Famous Landmarks On This Hike in Griffith Park

See Some of L.A.’s Most Famous Landmarks On This Hike in Griffith Park

Griffith Park is famous for its observatory, but it also offers some great hiking trails. I'm going to tell you about my favorite trail that takes you from the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory and back. I love this hike because it offers panoramic views of...

Ask Me a Question or Leave a Comment

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Pin It on Pinterest

Discover more from LA Date Ideas

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading