‘Enchanted’ is adding a whiskey bar and neon benches at Descanso Gardens this holiday

With sweltering summer temperatures, we’ll gladly turn our thoughts toward winter—especially when those thoughts involve whiskey and one of our favorite holiday light installations.

“Enchanted: Forest of Light,” a one-mile–long trail of illuminated, whimsical installations, will once again return to Descanso Gardens. The holiday tradition, which runs from November 18, 2018 to January 6, 2019, is still some months off, but Descanso has just released a few details.

Three of our favorite installations from last year’s sophomore season will receive upgrades or expansions this time around: “Celestial Shadows,” a latticework kaleidoscope of light and shadow from spinning laser-cut pendants by HYBYCOZO; “Lightwave Lake,” a controllable swirl of colorful spotlights atop a foggy lake; and “Aqueous,” a serpentine Candyland-like path that changes colors as you meander along its winding walkway. That latter installation, from interactive artist Jen Lewin, will also see the addition of neon benches placed around its perimeter.

Photograph: Michael Juliano

Photograph: Michael Juliano

In addition, this year’s “Enchanted” will introduce a whiskey bar that overlooks “Lightwave Lake”—the cozy cabins there should be the perfect spot for a slow sipper. Additional dining options will be available in the garden’s courtyard, while on-site brunch spot Maple will offer dinner service nightly for “Enchanted” ticketholders only.

Tickets for “Enchanted” go on sale to the general public on October 15 (a member pre-sale begins October 1). Admission costs $28 to $30 depending on the date and time selected. In addition, the gardens will host a preview party on November 17 with beer, wine, dinner and DJs; tickets go on sale September 4 and cost $125.

Until then, check out the video below of last year’s incredible installations.