It's not easy to sum up Descanso Gardens in a quick sentence.
I'll try by describing it as a protected parcel of woodland holding surreal beauty - that has been only modestly updated over time, but mostly retains its original flora which is mainly the multi-hundred year oaks - each of which is a marvel on it's own.
Whew. That should have been three sentences.
The official story is here:
https://www.descansogardens.org/about/history/
Each November through January, some very clever artists set up light installations among the trees and grounds to be viewed after dark. It's called Enchanted Forest of Light.
You'd think it'd be a holiday themed Christmas blowout with mechanical Santa's and annoying Rudolf blinky noses.
In fact it's just the opposite: Tasteful use of light. Sophisticated designs. Thoughtful spaces. Red wine. Hot tea.
Not a single sad Santa or plastic reindeer.
Anyway, a bunch of the extended family made the effort on a rather cold December night to wander and wonder throughout.
In actuality, I'd never been to Descanso before. Have you been during the day? Let me know what you think.
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Got some thoughts? Comments are welcome and encouraged. As always, the comment password is: life is good