Fall nights just got a whole lot brighter in La Cañada Flintridge. Carved, the beloved after-dark celebration at Descanso Gardens, is back from Friday, October 2 through Sunday, November 1, 2026, turning the gardens into a glowing pumpkin wonderland the whole family can wander together.
As the sun sets, paths light up with hundreds of glowing jack-o’-lanterns and giant hand-carved pumpkins, illuminated railroad displays chug through the landscape, and whimsical wood spirits peek out along the trails. It is spooky in the friendliest possible way — magical for little ones, and just as enchanting for grandparents.
This year brings happy new surprises. The garden labyrinth features new sculptures by Helsinki-based artist Alexander Reichstein, known for immersive installations that invite visitors of all ages into unexpected sensory worlds — and this is his first time exhibiting in the United States. A returning favorite, Bobolito’s “Rhizome,” moves to the dramatic setting of the Oak Grove, and seasonal food and drinks are served throughout the evening.
Best of all, for the first time ever, families can spend Halloween itself at Carved: trick-or-treating is included with admission on Saturday, October 31. Advance tickets are required. Member tickets run $22–$45 for adults and $12–$30 for children ages 2–12; non-member tickets are $29–$52 for adults and $19–$37 for children, and kids under 2 enter free. Descanso Gardens is at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge. Happy City News recommends booking early — the most popular nights sell out fast.
Photo: Descanso Gardens
