Filoli Historic House and Gardens Holiday Season 12.5.24

Posted on December 7, 2024 by lynnsreversegapyear

I took this picture to highlight the vibrant color of the gingko tree to the right of the pool area!

Filoli Historic House and Garden is a short drive from my son’s house near Woodside, California. I have visited several times over the past few years. It speaks to my love of public gardens – especially those that were at one time private residences. Last spring when we were visiting the area, I bought an annual membership on the premise that we would be back in the fall and it would be more cost effective.

Little did I realize that, upon our return this November, Filoli had begun their holiday display season and visits during this time were not included with an annual membership! Oh well!! An annual membership does allow for 20% off the daily fee during this season so at least that’s something!

Filoli reminds me of a very miniature Longwood Gardens. I grew up on the grounds of Longwood from birth until just before my teens. It is a place very near and dear to my heart. Perhaps that is why I am drawn to this California estate turned public garden. Of the nearly 654 acres of land, about 16 acres are devoted to the house and gardens. The house is a Georgian revival-style mansion and the mostly formal gardens mimic the English Renaissance era in design and construction.

I wandered through the house first, upon entering the garden, because I was in the mood to be mesmerized by holiday decorations and transported into the upbeat ambiance of the season. The decorations in the mansion reminded me of the effort put into decking out the Pierce-du Pont House at Longwood for the holidays.

Vintage ornaments displayed in a wall case – I actually have a box just like that at home!! Remember those “Shiny Brite” ornaments from our grandparents day!

A mantle in the pool room or “Gentlemen’s Lounge” – decorated with “worldly” ornaments

A “Book Tree” in the library – how appropriate!!

I loved the various Christmas trees that adorned each room of the house! This tree was in the Dining Room.

The white roses added a nice touch to this tree…

In the Butler’s Pantry, a table display was set up to mimic creating floral arrangements – I loved the way it was visually presented

After touring the house, I wandered around the outside gardens. Not much blooming this time of year but it was a gorgeous California day to just take a leisurely stroll around the grounds. Filoli does have an evening holiday light display reminiscent of the world famous light display put on by Longwood Gardens each year – although not anywhere near the scale. Maybe I’ll reserve an evening slot at Filoli before the season ends?