Since 2020, Golden Gate Park has hosted a beautiful light installation that featured a glowing forest that was free and open to the public. The installation typically debuted during the holidays and stayed for the winter months, illuminating JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park. Titled Entwined, the installation regularly drew people to the parks to enjoy the glowing trees, but unfortunately, the installation will not be returning to San Francisco this year.
Entwined evolved over the years; last year, it featured a massive tree—Elder Mother—featuring a 25-foot canopy of glowing lights that would blow in the wind. The tree stood 30 feet tall, and it wasn’t unusual to see children playing on the metal installation while enjoying the changing lights. Entwined even made its way across the city to UN Plaza, where the bushes from the previous installations were installed, bringing their signature magic with them.
In the past, the installation was a project with SF Parks Alliance, a non-profit that works with the city and various organizations to help improve our beloved parks. Projects include Sundown Cinema, monthly markets at Crane Cove Park, and much more. While it’s disappointing that the installation won’t be returning, elements of Entwined remain in California, displayed in Laguna Beach. So, if you happen to be taking a trip down to SoCal, you can still see the work in person. The piece was created by local artist Charles Gadeken, who works with industrial art to create large-scale interactive pieces. His work has been shown at Burning Man, Coachella, and more.
In the meantime, the Bay Area still has plenty of beautiful holiday light displays this year. Some of our favorites include Filoli Estate and Garden, which adorns its beautifully manicured gardens with lights every year for a festive display. Christmas in the Park is another popular destination, perfect for a cold night because you can enjoy the drive-through display from the comfort of your car. Finally, we recommend checking out Union Square’s massive tree, which is lit up every night for the holidays.