Lightscape Botanic Gardens San Diego

The Garden comes to life at night with Lightscape, the San Diego Botanical Garden light show. The holiday event features artistic installations that illuminate the trail with color and sound, creating a festive atmosphere for all ages. Experience the awe of artistry in motion with 15 fantastical installations.
San Diego Botanic Garden
300 Quail Gardens Dr.
Encinitas, CA 92024
Lightscape Tickets: sdbg.org/light...
*7 Tips for Ensuring an Enjoyable Lightscape Evening*
Based on my experience at Lightscape Encinitas, the Botanical Gardens Christmas Lights 2023...
1. You’ll need an advance-timed ticket. You can purchase tickets online at the San Diego Botanical Website. Purchase your parking at the same time to receive a discount. My visit cost $29 + $3 service fee + $10 parking, for a total of $42. Members, military personnel, and children receive discounted admission. I know it may seem pricey, but it is a professional production and, in my opinion, worth it.
2. The holiday lights are from 5 pm -10 pm. To avoid the crowds, later is better.
I arrived early for the first time slot, and there was a line. Lightscape is a family event, and the earlier times are favored by those with young children. The crowds keep growing once you are on the grounds as visitors can make unlimited rounds of the Lightscape circuit. By mid-evening, the Garden is bustling despite the timed tickets. I’d recommend taking one of the last time slots as the crowds start to thin.
3. Regardless of when you go, Lightscape is a popular event, and there will be many more people than you usually see in the Garden during daytime hours. Be prepared to slow down and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
4. Accessibility: If you are concerned about navigating the paths at night, the good news is that most of the trails are paved. There is a moderate incline and some steps. Staff can direct visitors to alternate pathways if they need help with the stairs or the dirt trails. Strollers and wheelchairs are allowed. For those with sensory issues, be aware of flashing light displays.
5. There are three parking lots. The road to the San Diego Botanic Garden is dark. Look for the red-tipped flashlights waving you in. It was very organized and easy to navigate. I arrived at 4:30 and parked at the main entrance by the conservatory. However, I discovered it has the longest walk to the holiday light installations. Next time, I would park in the yellow or blue lot to be closer to the action.
This is important: Remember the color name of your parking lot. The Lightscape route goes in a continuous oneway circle; each parking lot has its own path back. I heard more than one conversion of forgotten lots. If you plan to meet someone at the Garden, make it easier by meeting offsite and driving together.
6. Plan to take a break at one of the refreshment stands along the way. A cup of hot cocoa or a glass of champagne adds to the festivities. The stand by the Kaleido installation has an expanded menu, warm entrees, and adult beverages. Outside food and/or beverages are not allowed.
7. Let’s talk pictures. The holiday lights event is for making memories. Be patient. I loved watching the fun being captured in photos. Overall, people were respectful when taking pictures and moved on or out of the way. Tripods or professional photos are not allowed.