Descanso's Summer Offerings Unveiled

is offering up an al fresco summer of fun and culture with a variety of events planned for the longer days and warmer nights of July. In addition to extended hours Tuesdays through Thursdays, when Descanso stays open until 8 p.m., concerts, performances, classes and camps are all available to help you enjoy your summer to the fullest.

The Camellia Lounge, located in the Japanese teahouse, will serve cocktails and appetizers from 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, providing the perfect summer spot for your relaxing happy hour.

The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum leaves its Topanga home stage to perform Shakespeare as part of Descanso’s Summer Family Series. Picnics, not usually allowed in Descanso, are encouraged for the 5:30 p.m. curtain calls. On Tuesday, July 5, A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be preformed. July 19 brings The Merry Wives of Windsor to Descanso. 

Descano’s “Music on the Main” series sets jazz floating through the gardens. Gonzalo Bergarra, the Aaron Nigel Trio, Sammy Miller, and Kristin Korb are some of the musicians lined up to perform on Tuesday and Thursday nights throughout the summer. All concerts are free with garden admission and start at 5:30 p.m.

For the younger crowd, summer camp gets under way the week of July 25. The day camp lets youngsters campers explore the garden while participating in a variety of activities like cooking, orienteering, and science projects. Designed for kids in first through sixth grades, the camp is run partnership with the Child Educational Center and costs $400.

Grown-ups can put together their own summer camp by attending classes. Sustainable gardening techniques, watercolor painting, Pilates, and tai chi are some of the choices for both weekday and weekend sessions.

Descanso’s website offers more details and a schedule. The garden’s summer hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. For more information call 818-949-4200.