Descanso’s Whistlestop Christmas

Manchester Boddy built his foothill mansion in 1939 and began planting a camellia forest in the ‘40s. Today, his former home is known as the Hospitality House, and his 165 acres in La Canada Flintridge are now known as Descanso Gardens.

Saturday through Dec. 12, Descanso Gardens will host “Christmas at Whistlestop, U.S.A.” Interior decorators will create a holiday showcase house in the Hospitality House, and an art show and music will fill the home (through Dec. 26).

To help visitors tour the grounds during the nine-day event, L.A. Live Steamers will operate a scale-model diesel train ($1.50 per rider).

An outdoor railway and garden display landscaped by L.A. Garden Railway will enhance the lawn adjacent to Van de Kamp Hall, where a New England country store will be housed, along with decorated trees, and food and crafts bazaars. Wreath-making and craft demonstrations will be given there. Holiday music is planned and, of course, visits with Santa.

The event is 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. Holiday activities are included in the $5 garden admission; seniors and students, $3; ages 5-12, $1; under 5, free. For information, call (818) 952-4401.