Photos and story by Lucy Wheeler

As the Sun sets, the Garden of Lights begins their colored glow which sets a tone of wonder and involvement with San Diego’s Garden of Lights on Quail Gardens Drive, in Encinitas.
Beginning the evening of enhancement near the main entrance and strolling through this spectacular display of lights, Lady Luck greets, welcomes and reflects the lights sparkling on her metal costume, offering the luck of the evening’s enchantments.

As nighttime darkens, reflections give the illusion of embedded lights on the under sheath of large leaves.

The lights mesmerize the evening by gliding across the waterfall luring us into their movements in contrast to the firmly entrenched trees, decorated shrubs, and bench.

The sparkling paths attract selfie photos and dazzle the surroundings.
Decorated stairways beckon to the heights, arousing curiousity and wonder at identical moments.

Then there’s live entertainment with Christmas Music and karaoke sing along.
Before going to see Santa, there’s art in the Ecke Building. There’s Spin-Art, Face Painting and a fabulous display of Wooden Soldiers.

And just down the slope is the wonderland of snow sliding. Some even try it backward,

Then it’s time to go visit Santa, who can’t be ignored as the crowd stands in line to discuss their needs and wants with him. (Bring your camera, as his elves didn’t bring Santa’s with them).

Now, being assured Santa has made his list, and knowing full well he’ll check it twice, relax at the Marshall mellow roasting area and dance with the glowing and ever-changing lights.

Starting on December 14^th, the horse-drawn hay wagon offers rides through the Garden Grounds to see almost every light of the Enchanted Garden of Lights and provide the mood for sharing the true Christmas Spirit.