By Kelly Quach

Staff Writer

  The cold crisp air surrounded me as I stepped into Descanso Gardens. It was dark outside, but the lamps on both sides of the pathway lit up the event. As I sat around the campfire learning about winter-time constellations, I knew the event was right for me.

  Campfire Stories is a part of the Night Garden series that is hosted by Descanso Gardens. The Night Garden series is made up of four events: Campfire Stories, Plant Power, LA Blooms!, and Science Quest. Each event consists of unique activities that revolve around their theme. The Campfire Stories event offered crafting, live insect viewing, shadow puppet theater, live music, and information about wildlife throughout the night.

  A few days prior to the event, I purchased tickets online for Feb. 9. The website listed the start time at 5:30 p.m., but guests were not required to arrive on time. I entered the garden at 6:30 p.m..

  After learning about the night-time constellations, I decided to tour the garden on my own. Although it was hard to  see in the dark, the sounds of the crickets chirping and bushes rustling made it clear that I was indeed around nature.    

  I made my way back to the Rose Garden and listened to the Rocky Neck Bluegrass Band play some songs on a variety of instruments. I started feeling a little hungry and bought a s’more that was sold nearby in the Rose Garden.

  Despite the hefty price tag of $7, the two graham crackers that sandwiched a marshmallow and a layer of chocolate was very gooey and delicious.

  When the live concert was over and my s’more was finished, I approached the Rose Pavilion to watch master puppeteer, Leslie K. Gray, perform the story, “Chase the Kangaroo.” The show portrayed the earth as a marvelous place that should be appreciated.

  Although I only spent two hours at Descanso Gardens, I had a wonderful experience. Spending time at the garden after regular closing hours was unique and interesting. Instead of hearing the birds chirping, most of them were nesting quietly in the bushes and trees. The event itself was very organized and its plethora of activities kept me entertained at all times which made the long drive worth it..

  The ticket price was $5 for Descanso Garden members and $15 for non-member guests of ages three and up. Children two and younger do not need a ticket to enter any of the Night Garden series events. Tickets are only available for purchase online. The next event, Plant Power, will be held on March 16. Upcoming events include LA Blooms! on April 6 and Science Quest on May 18.

   This past weekend, Descanso Gardens gave me the ability to appreciate plants and insects and wholeheartedly, this was my greatest takeaway from the event itself.