The Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens was truly enchanting!
As soon as we pulled into the parking lot, we could tell that we were going to experience
something special. The colorful lights were peeking out through the trees, and the sign that
welcomed us was beautiful.
After entering the gardens, we were transported almost immediately to a wonderland of light
and sound. Each of the ten stops along the mile-long path have a different theme. Most of the
installations have an interactive aspect which makes them fun for all ages. My seven year old
and three year old loved running around and exploring. They discovered that they could touch
things and interact with the lights. The seven year old said that his favorite parts were, “the
spinning lights and the light up road”, also know as Starlight Garden and Luminous Lawn. He
was able to spin the hanging lanterns, creating patterns of light and shadow on the ground.
Both boys were running and giggling on the “candyland road” that they found in the Luminous
Lawn.
We stopped for hot cocoa and cocktails at the cutest food truck ever. It had hot cocoa, cider,
cocktails, beer, wine, and snacks. The boys sipped hot cocoa, and my husband and I had a
bourbon cider, all while experiencing the ambiance of Lightwave Lake.
My favorite area was Ancient Forest. It felt like I was traveling through a fairy tale. The path
leading into the forest was lit with tiny little lights that looked just like fire flies darting through the
trees. When I traveled deeper into the trees, I discovered an amazing landscape of color and
nature.
Everything about the Enchanted Forest of Light was worth experiencing, and I would
recommend it as a fun family night out, or even as a date night for mom and dad. The event
runs daily from 5:30 to 10pm, November 18, 2018 – January 6, 2019. It is closed on
Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Tickets can be purchased at
https://www.descansogardens.org/programs-events/enchanted/tickets/ and start at $28.
Kids two and under are free.
