LIGHTS, COLOR, GLAM! You can find it all at California’s Filoli Mansion and Gardens in the Bay Area city of Woodside.
The estate was built for the family of the wealthy water and gold mining magnate, William Bowers Bourn II between 1915 and 1917.
As you walk into this stately house, children and adults will be blown away by the lights, the colors, the décor. Wjp and I certainly were. The mansion’s decorations were beautiful and classy.
Filoli, lately, has come into global focus due to the meeting between USA’s President Biden and China’s President Xi, on November 15, 2023, at this gorgeous location.
Holidays at Filoli is a relatively new event. This tradition is only 6 years old but what a hit it has proved to be! The event runs between November 18 – January 7.
In winter, Filoli’s Mansion, with its rich history and historic architecture, transports us to an era of old money glamour.
One can only imagine the rich gliding about in their expensive and shimmery attire, some waltzing gracefully in the ballroom, others retiring to different corners of the home where they either powdered their noses, catching up on the latest goings-on in the world or raucous laughter echoing around the merry group as delicious scents wafted alongside the hired staff serving holiday treats.
As we continued making our way through the house, we entered the Dining Room where once, under the crystal chandeliers and among priceless cutlery, the owners of yore once loved to entertain lavishly during the holidays with sumptuous meals.
In contrast the Butler’s Quarters were quite simple but very functional.
The Butler’s Pantry and the Kitchen was where all the culinary action took place. One can only imagine the scores of yummy dishes made here through the years especially during special days.
The Gardens are transformed into a Christmas winter wonderland with colorful lights draped on the trees and shrubs, holiday music playing softly as guests stroll taking in the beauty of the season.
Each area on the garden grounds and each room in the house, where guests are allowed, are decorated differently. Firepits can be seen in different areas. They are welcome and much sought after by guests wandering around the beautiful estate in the chill of winter.
For those who want to just relax and enjoy the lights without jostling other folks, Filoli does a good job of keeping the crowds down by having limited tickets every day. Besides that, the vastness of the estate offers everyone an opportunity to walk freely, take pictures or just appreciate the lovely vibe while sitting on one of the many benches placed around the historic grounds.
Fun Tidbit: The staff start stringing the lights around the gardens in October itself.
Tickets for the Holidays at Filoli get sold out very early on. It is best to book as soon as possible. There are Santa Days, Foral Parties, Holiday Tea, etc. For those interested in visiting Filoli often, it is best to get a membership. We did and have had no regrets.
Depending on the day and time, ticket prices: 1) Adults: $21.00 – $41.00 2) Ages 5 yrs – 17 yrs: $19.00 – $31.00 3) Senior (65yrs & up): $26.00 4) Children Under Age 5 yrs: Free
Special events have a separate pricing that even members have to pay for, but they do get various discounts. Depending on the kind of membership you are looking for, it will cost you between $99.00 – $750.00.
For current pricing and events, please check out their website at filoli.org
The House and Gardens does not disappoint at any season, and certainly not during the holidays with their lovely wreaths, tasteful décor and stunningly decorated trees. It is a winter wonderland alight with glittering festive colors, a true holiday destination.
