It’s almost time for Carved, everyone’s favorite pumpkin extravaganza, at Descanso Gardens! If you haven’t been thrilled by this event, put it on your do it now list. Descanso’s unique take on Halloween, Carved, will occur October 7-31, 2022 and will feature exciting new displays and experiences. Tickets will be going on sale to the general public starting at 10:00 a.m. on September 15, 2022 at descansogardens.org.
Carved is a family-friendly event for all ages. For three weeks in October, hundreds of carved pumpkins will line the Camellia Forest. This year’s event will be bigger and better than before, with all kinds of new activities. Along with the pumpkins, the ever-popular pumpkin house, hay maze, and holiday-themed food and beverages will return. Guests can also observe artists sculpting pumpkins and enjoy a special Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) installation created by Self Help Graphics and Art at the Amphitheater.
New this year at Carved are special UV experiences. The highlight will be the art installation “Rhizome” by Belgian artists Tom&Lien Dekyvere. “Rhizome” has toured the world, but this is the first time it will be on the West Coast. The installation, which features tall structures connected by colored neon ropes, will be in the new “Ghost Garden.” The term Rhizome references a tree’s root structures that allow trees to communicate and share nutrition underground. The installation compares these root structures with our digital connectivity. Inspired by Rhizome, there will be pops of UV light throughout Carved. Visitors can purchase UV stickers, paint and glow-in-the-dark items on the Main Lawn or see how their white and neon clothing lights up.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tom&Lien Dekyvere to Carved this year,” said Juliann Rooke, Executive Director of Descanso Gardens. “Their work is inspired by root structures of plants and trees and is fascinating in its exploration of the boundaries between nature and technology. We believe their one-of-a-kind light art installation will add a mesmerizing, fun new layer to this beloved event.”
Ticket prices for Carved are $20-$26 for members, $32-$38 for nonmembers. Kids under 2 are free.