As the leaves start changing colors, and gourds are displayed in stores and in piles on city vacant lots, Descanso Gardens is bedecked in pumpkins of every size and color. Carved is back and it’s better than ever!

Carved at Descanso Gardens. Photo Jill Weinlein

“We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to Descanso Gardens for Carved,” said Chief Executive Officer Juliann Rooke. “These event has become a treasured tradition, and this year, we’ve gone above and beyond to introduce new features that will make the experience even more magical in our beautifully illuminated gardens.”

Carved Pumpkins. Photo Jill Weinlein

Ticket holders enter into a dazzling world of carved pumpkins and themed activations. There is a designated paved and groomed walking path route filled with color, lights and music. Near the entrance is a pumpkin and gourd decorated water serpent in a small pond.

Creative use of pumpkins. Photo Jill Weinlein

New this year besides the illuminated pumpkin spectacle, is the new model trains and train depots of the Descanso Railroad. This multi-height area is aglow with special lighting and train sound.

The new Descanso Railroad. Photo by Jill Weinlein

Visitors will encounter a whimsical family of wood spirits, carved by Chainsaw Jenna from five massive logs, adding a playful touch to the event.

Festive Jack-O’-Lantern décor. Photo Jill Weinlein

There are also Jack-O’-Lantern boxes grouped together in certain areas of the garden that flicker and glow as the night sky dims to black.

Carved at Descanso Gardens. Photo Jill Weinlein

Marvel at the intricate jack-o’-lanterns that hand-carved from giant pumpkins. Creative carving artists are working on new designs in the evening. Ask them a question and learn how they carve these beautiful pumpkins into whimsical designs.

Carver at Carved at Descanso Gardens. Photo Jill Weinlein

Walk around the green and ever changing colorful “Rhizome” while listening to the sounds. This area was installed by artists Tom and Lien Dekyvere.

Dia de los Muertos at Carved. Photo Jill Weinlein

Be sure to see the Dia de los Muertos ofenda (altar) and write a special note to a loved one who has departed. There is also a Pumpkin House to walk into for Instagram-worthy photos.

Pumpkin House at Carved. Photo Jill Weinlein

Carved runs through October 30, 2024. It opens at 6 pm. Entry times are every half hour starting at 6 pm, 6:30 pm, 7 pm, 7:30 pm, 8 pm, 8:30 p, and 9 p.m. The even closes at 10pm.

Food and beverage offerings are available at Carved. Photo Jill Weinlein

Food and beverage offerings include vegan brats, soft Bavarian pretzels, pumpkin spice churros, apple pie cookies, craft beers, wine, apple cider and hot cocoa. Some of the food and beverage tents sell special theme cocktails, such as a Pumpkin Palazzo Cocktail made with vodka, pear juice, lemon juice, and pumpkin spice syrup

Carved tickets are timed tickets that must be purchased in advance and are non-refundable. Purchase through the Descanso Gardens website at descansogardens.org. Children under two years of age are free. Adult tickets are $28–$38 for members, $35 to $45 for non-members. The ticket price for members children ages 2 to 12 is $18 to $23, non-members is $25 to $30.