Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge is once again transforming its grounds for the annual Carved event, offering Southern Californians a mile-long trail filled with all things pumpkin. Running from October 2 through November 1, the evening stroll highlights an illuminated forest of jack-o’-lanterns, alongside an array of creative gourd displays.
Visitors exploring the botanical garden's loop will encounter pumpkins in various forms. Notable displays include a sea monster seemingly rising from a pond, thick clusters arranged on the ground, and a whimsical house constructed entirely from pumpkins. The event's route, which debuted last year, guides attendees through these installations.
For those planning to attend in future years, the 2026 edition of Carved is slated to bring additional features. The neon-hued Rhizome light sculpture will be relocated to the dramatic Oak Grove, and the labyrinth is expected to showcase new immersive sculptures by Helsinki-based artist Alexander Reichstein. This year, the gardens’ model trains will again be illuminated as part of the event.
Upon entering, visitors will find an expanded Día de los Muertos ofrenda altar situated near the main entrance. From there, the trail leads to two primary jack-o’-lantern areas. One section meanders through a forest lined with expressively carved, though artificial, pumpkins. Some of these have been arranged into wonderfully whimsical characters, such as a crow-like scarecrow and a pumpkin appearing to hold its own head. Further along in the rose garden, a pavilion houses real gourds, many of which feature designs inspired by pop culture characters. This area also offers a station where attendees can observe pumpkins being carved live.
Regular attendees of Descanso’s other holiday tradition, Enchanted, will likely notice some familiar stylistic choices adapted for Halloween. The musical accompaniment, while moody, remains family-friendly, intentionally avoiding anything spooky or scary. The installations are artfully assembled, moving beyond a simple scattering of jack-o’-lanterns. Instead, the displays are enhanced with woven straw lanterns, glowing boxes, and a neon tangle of web-like ropes, contributing to a more creative visual experience.
Depending on crowd levels and how often one pauses for photos, the walk through Carved typically takes at least 45 minutes. Additional time should be factored in for those stopping for snacks and drinks available in the courtyard, or for sweets offered in the rose garden—the churro, in particular, comes recommended.
Timed tickets for Carved are currently on sale, with prices ranging from $29 to $52 for adults and $19 to $37 for children aged 2–12. A new "anytime" ticket is also available this year for $85, allowing entry on any date. However, at that price point, committing to a specific day and time might be the more practical choice for many. For a different experience, a daytime visit to Descanso Gardens also allows views of the decor, though nothing will be illuminated. This option is considerably cheaper at $18, and still allows visitors to pose in front of the pumpkin house or navigate the hay maze.
