We had the opportunity to review the Moonlight Lantern Festival at the Los Angeles Arboretum. We absolutely loved our illuminated experience. When you arrive at the Arboretum, you will be greeted by the most colorful and visually pleasing lanterns. When you start your walk, you can either stay on the path, or go different routes. It is a nice evening walk. Wear sturdy and comfy shoes. Along your path you will find several beautiful photo opportunities. I highly suggest, stopping and taking a few pictures of your family or friends. The peacock was one of our favorites. You can not think of the Arboretum without thinking of peacocks. In the same area is a majestic temple, holiday themed lanterns and a truly magical unicorn. We loved the Christmas tree, it is motorized. Santa rides around the perimeter of the tree in his sleigh with two trusty reindeer.
There are several walk through tunnels. Perfect for pictures, and just enchanting to walk through. Our favorite was the Under the Sea/Ocean themed tunnel. Every where you look, is something to see. It is a perfect time to play I Spy with your kids. The attention to detail by the artisans is absolutely breathtaking. Truly remarkable. If you have a favorite animal, you just might find it on your walk. Flamingos, crocodiles, monkeys, deer, walruses, snakes and panda bears to name a few. Plus the new Penguin lantern, which is just gorgeous and interactive. Several playful penguins will steal your heart at this stop. 
As you are walking through your journey, pay special attention to the lanterns that are interactive. There are large buttons to touch or stand on, which will either change the color of the lantern or allow a certain mechanism to move, further bringing them to life. One of our family's favorite was the Butterfly Tree. A beautiful illuminated tree with magical Monarch Butterflies. You can sit here for hours just captivated by the beauty. Truly my favorite of the night. In another area, that is closer to end of the walk, is an interactive wonderland. The lights and shapes will make you feel, like you are in a real life Candy Land game. Interactive light pads and color changing swings will bring out the kid in your heart. Your children and teenagers will absolutely LOVE this! We sure did. I personally loved the swings. So much fun!!! And in this area, there is another stage, seating and food vendors. Nightly entertainment.
Here are some of our tips for you, to make your experience a memorable one.
1. Dress warm and wear comfortable shoes.
2. Bring your phone or camera with a FULL battery. You will take lots of pictures and video of your adventure.
3. Plan ahead. Purchase your tickets online ahead of time, to ensure you get the right date and time as dates do sell out. Visit the Moonlight Forest Festival for more info and to purchase tickets.
4. Parking is FREE. If onsite Arboretum parking lots are full, you’ll be directed to additional parking at Santa Anita Park. Free shuttles run from and to Santa Anita throughout the event. The shuttle dropoff and pickup location is at the main Moonlight gate. If you rideshare, the Depot entrance is the dropoff and pickup location.
5.Buy a membership to the Arboretum and save on your admission tickets! Enjoy the Arboretum for a full year! Educational events, member specials, activities, Cafe and gift shop.
6. Share your photos on social media by using #MoonlightForestLA on Instagram and Twitter.
7. ENJOY yourselves and the holiday spirit which can be felt.
We truly loved our experience, and send many thanks to the Moonlight Festival and the Los Angeles Arboretum. We hope you go and visit for yourselves, or buy tickets as a gift. This truly is a one of a kind experience, and would make an unique holiday gift.
