ABOUT THE EVENT
What is Lightscape?
Lightscape is an internationally acclaimed extravaganza of light, art and music that transforms the Arboretum into an illuminated night experience! Wander along stunning new installations on an expanded trail that includes the magnificent Winter Cathedral. Lightscape is a truly memorable, family-friendly walking event that is perfect for holiday entertainment and gatherings.
What are the dates for Lightscape?
November 11, 2022 – January 8, 2023*
*Lightscape is closed Nov. 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 24 (Thanksgiving), 28, 29; Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 25 (Christmas); Jan. 3, 4.
What are the event hours?
Time slots are from 5:30pm-8:45pm in 15-minute intervals. Last entry at 9pm (the event closes at 10pm).
Where is Lightscape located?
The event is located at the L.A. Arboretum, 301 North Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91007.
Where do I park?
Free parking off-site is available with free shuttle service (handicap accessible) to and from the Arboretum at the Colorado Street entrance to Lot #6 at the Santa Anita Racetrack. There is NO free parking available at the Arboretum and residential street parking in the area is strictly prohibited.
Preferred parking at Arboretum is available for $20 and can only be purchased in advance online. Preferred parking may be at the Main Entrance or the South Lot depending on availability. There are a limited number of spaces available, so we suggest that you purchase your parking preference at the same time you purchase your tickets. Please ensure the date you select your parking matches the date of your Lightscape tickets.
Handicap parking is available for FREE at the Colorado Street entrance to Lot #6 at the Santa Anita Racetrack. Preferred handicap parking is available for $20 and can only be purchased in advance online. Handicap preferred parking may be at the Main Entrance or the South Lot depending on availability. There are a limited number of spaces available, so we suggest that you purchase your parking preference at the same time you purchase your tickets. Please ensure the date you select your parking matches the date of your Lightscape tickets.
Valet Parking: This year we are offering valet parking at the Main Entrance. Valet parking is available for $40 and can only be purchased in advance online. There are a limited number of valet spaces available, so we suggest that you purchase your parking preference at the same time you purchase your tickets.
Please ensure the date you select your parking matches the date of your Lightscape tickets.
Large Vehicle Parking: Buses, party buses, limousines, campers and RV style vehicles must park at the Colorado Street entrance to Lot #6 at the Santa Anita Racetrack. There is no charge for these services at the racetrack and large vehicle occupants must utilize the free shuttle service to the Arboretum. There is no dropping off at the Arboretum with large vehicles due to limited access from our on-going construction project.
Please note that all paid parking must be purchased and paid for online in advance. The parking attendants cannot accept cash or other payments upon your arrival.
Please have the parking pass you received at the time of purchase placed on your dashboard as you arrive or have a digital copy readily available to show the attendant.
Is there a drop off area for rideshare?
Yes! The Depot Lot is the designated drop off and pickup area for Uber, Lyft and taxis.
Who is Lightscape suitable for?
Lightscape is suitable for all ages - to be enjoyed by everyone. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
TICKETS and ADMISSION
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be
purchased online. Due to high demand we highly recommend you purchase tickets in advance to ensure your entry. Lightscape does not guarantee ticket availability online or at the Box Office on the day of the event.
When can I purchase tickets?
Lightscape tickets go on sale to the public on August 10. When you book tickets, please make sure that you have chosen the right date and time slot before completing your purchase.
What are the ticket prices?
Prices vary, based on day of the week and date selected. Additional service fees apply.
Peak: Adults: $39; Child (3-12) $20; Infants: 0-2 years: free
Off Peak: Adults: $37; Child (3-12): $18; Infants: 0-2 years: free
Off peak dates are as follows:
Nov. 17, 30; Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15; Jan 5, 2023
Flextime Tickets: $80 non-members; $75 members. Includes exclusive parking in our Depot Parking Lot and non-general ticket entrance at the box office. You may enter anytime during the early or late window designated on your ticketed date. Additional service fees apply.
Do Arboretum members need to buy tickets?
Yes. Arboretum members can purchase tickets online and receive $3 off regular ticket prices. Only Arboretum members are eligible for this discount. We invite you to
become a member. An additional $3 service fee applies to the following member prices.
Peak: Adults: $36; Child (3-12) $17; Infants: 0-2 years: free
Off Peak: Adults: $34; Child (3-12): $15; Infants: 0-2 years: free
Off peak dates are as follows:
Nov 17, 30; Dec 1, 7, 8, 14, 15; Jan 5
May I become a member and then be eligible for the discount?
Yes, you can become a member online at
arboretum.org or visit our Membership Office during Arboretum business hours.
The date I want is sold out. Can I buy tickets at the door, day of?
We do not guarantee ticket availability at the door (day of) due to limited capacity. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets online and in advance due to high demand.
Does my Arboretum daytime admission give me access to the Lightscape event?
No. Admission to Lightscape and Arboretum are separate. Lightscape is a ticketed evening event with admissions starting at 5:30pm. If you visit the Arboretum during the day, regular Arboretum admission prices apply. If you have Lightscape tickets, you must exit the garden by 4:30pm and return to enter Lightscape at your designated timed entry.
Should I arrive in advance of my ticketed time slot?
We strongly advise that you plan on arriving at the gate 15 minutes prior to your entry time. Please allow time to park, ride the shuttle and check in. To provide you with the best experience, entry is granted based on the time designated on your ticket.
Do I have to leave before the next entry group comes in?
Once you are admitted, you do not have a time limit to complete your visit, however you must exit the grounds at the close of the event which is 10pm.
What is your COVID policy?
The health and safety of our visitors is our priority, the Arboretum follows the L.A. County Department of Public Health’s COVID guidelines that are in place during Lightscape. Following the current guidelines, proof of vaccination is not required at this outdoor event. Masks are recommended but are optional outdoors. Costume characters in full face masks are not allowed.
If I am delayed and miss my slot, can I join a later slot?
We will try and accommodate you on the next available slot within Lightscape’s operational hours on the day. Please ensure you leave enough time to arrive on time if you are travelling a long way.
What if I can’t use my ticket? Can I get a refund?
Choose your date carefully! Please make sure that you have chosen the correct date and time slot at the time of your booking. There are no refunds once Lightscape tickets have been purchased. Arboretum memberships are not refundable. In the event you are unable to use your ticket, please consider your purchase a donation to the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Federal Tax ID 95-1582650.
Can I change the date of my tickets?
Yes, but exchanges are subject to a $10 transaction fee. This fee applies to members and non-members. Exchanges will be allowed depending on availability. There are no refunds. Please contact the Customer Call Center at 626.566.3720 to process a date change. If you are not able to attend your initial date, please consider your ticket as a donation to the Arboretum Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Federal Tax ID 95-1582650
LIGHTSCAPE EXPERIENCE
How long is the walk?
The exhibition route is a little over a mile long and takes about 90 minutes to complete. This is a self-guided walking event, there are no shuttles or tours on the Lightscape trail.
Is the path dark or covered?
In some areas the lighting will be low level as part of the experience. We do encourage visitors to bring along a flashlight in case of an emergency; this should not be used unless it is necessary.
The path is not covered, and all visitors are reminded that this is an outdoor illuminated event, and the weather may be inclement. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter.
What are the last entry times?
The last time slot is 8:45pm. Last entry will be at 9pm. The event closes at 10pm and ticket holders must exit. Plan your time accordingly.
What time does Lightscape finish?
All visitors must exit the Arboretum no later than 10pm.
Can I take photographs?
Yes! Please use hashtag #lalightscape. We want to see your photos! While waiting for that perfect shot please do not block pathways or the view of others. No tripods are allowed. Photographs and videos are not to be used for commercial purposes. No night commercial photography is allowed during Lightscape, permits will not be given.
Can I bring my drone?
Drones are not permitted.
Are dogs allowed?
Pets are not allowed. Only ADA-designated service animals are permitted.
Will Lightscape be open in inclement weather?
Lightscape is a rain or shine event. The Arboretum reserves the right to shut down or cancel the event if weather conditions are assessed to pose a risk to our guests’ safety.
Is there ADA access at Lightscape?
Yes. The installations are located along paved paths which are accessible for wheelchairs, mobility assistant devices, and strollers. However, there is travel over grass and other natural surfaces. Wheelchairs are not provided and cannot be rented on-site.
Do you have ADA accessible parking?
Yes, ADA accessible parking spaces are available.
Is the trail accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The illuminated path is about one mile long. There is travel over paved paths, grass, and other natural surfaces.
If weather conditions mean that the path is not fully accessible for people using wheeled mobility aids, consideration will be made on a case-by-case basis to allow tickets to be transferred to an alternative date when the ground conditions are more appropriate.
Does it get cold?
We strongly recommend dressing up warm and cozy. The Arboretum may get very cold during winter months.
Can I purchase food and drink on site?
Yes, a selection of food and drink will be available to purchase.
Can we bring food and drinks?
No. Only food and drinks purchased on-site are permitted to be consumed during the illuminated trail.
CANCELLATION, EXCHANGES & REFUNDS
What will happen if the weather is bad? Will Lightscape be cancelled?
Lightscape is an outdoor illuminated event. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, any decision to cancel will be made by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail. If Lightscape is cancelled, you will be notified by email and text message and you will be informed of the re-booking process. We advise you to check the website for the latest updates, and before you travel to the Arboretum.
If I am unable to attend on a different day, can I get a refund?
If Lightscape is cancelled in line with the cancellation policy and ticket holders are not able to attend an alternative night offered, then a refund will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The transaction fee is not refundable under any circumstances.
I have booked for the wrong day, can I transfer over to another day?
Yes, but exchanges are subject to a $10 transaction fee. This fee applies to members and nonmembers. Exchanges will be allowed depending on availability. There are no refunds. Please contact the Customer Call Center at 626.566.3720 to process. Tickets are subject to availability.
I have lost my ticket, what can I do?
If your tickets are lost or if you require your E-Tickets to be resent to you, please contact us at
lightscape@arboretum.org or 626.566.3720. Please note that you will need to have your reference number at hand, and the reissue will render your original tickets invalid.
I have a question that is not listed here. Who can I speak to for more information?