Lightscape Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for Lightscape?
November 17, 2023 – January 2, 2024*
5:30pm-10pm
*Lightscape is closed November 23 (Thanksgiving Day) and December 25 (Christmas Day)
Where do I park?
There is NO free parking available at the Arboretum. Residential street parking is strictly prohibited. On-site general parking and ADA parking are available for purchase in advance. The fee is $20 per vehicle. On-site parking is limited so we suggest you book parking at the time you purchase your event tickets.
Purchase parking here
Is there a drop off area for rideshare?
Yes. The Main Entrance is the designated drop off and pick up area for Uber, Lyft and taxis.
How do I purchase tickets
Tickets can be purchased online in advance. Lightscape does not guarantee ticket availability online or at the Box Office on the day of the event.
What are the ticket prices?
Prices vary, based on day of the week and date selected. Additional service fees apply.
Off Peak: Adults: $23 members/$29 non-members; Child (3-12): $10 members/$14 non-members; Infants (2 & under): free
Regular: Adults: $26 members/$32 non-members; Child (3-12): $12 members/$16 non-members; Infants (2 & under): free
Peak: Adults: $29 members/$35 non-members; Child (3-12): $14 members/$18 non-members; Infants (2 & under): free
Do Arboretum members need to buy tickets?
Yes. Arboretum members can purchase tickets online and receive up to $6 off ticket prices. Only Arboretum members are eligible for this discount. We invite you to become a member. Additional service fees apply to each ticket. Click here to become a member.
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. Join now.
Does my Arboretum daytime admission give me access to the Lightscape event?
No. Admission to Lightscape and the 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 entry time.
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.
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.
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 plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your designated entry time, allowing for traffic and commute distance.
What if I can’t use my tickets? 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 transaction fee for members and non-members. The reschedule fee is $10 per transaction from Nov. 17-December 10. The reschedule fee is $20 per transaction from December 11-January 2, 2024. Exchanges will be allowed depending on availability. There are no refunds. To process a date change please contact the Customer Care Team at 626.566.3720 or lightscape2023@arboretum.org.
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.
Can I purchase food and drinks on site?
Yes. There will be food trucks and a full-service bar. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Are pets allowed?
No pets or emotional support animals are allowed. Only ADA-designated service animals are permitted.
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. ADA accessible parking spaces are available.
What will happen if the weather is bad? Will Lightscape be cancelled?
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. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, any decision to cancel will be made by 2pm on event day. 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.