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One of three unforgettable experiences at Filoli this season, Gilded invites visitors to explore a grand historic estate decked in dazzling décor and timeless holiday elegance

WOODSIDE, CA, October 29, 2025 — Filoli’s beloved holiday tradition returns with Gilded, a festive celebration that transforms the historic House and Garden into a glittering showcase of California holiday style. With over 7,000 ornaments, 130 wreaths, and 108 Christmas trees, the estate offers a journey through timeless traditions where history sparkles and memories are made.. Gilded is one of three signature experiences at Holidays at Filoli, proudly presented by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, inviting visitors of all ages to celebrate in their own unique way. Each experience is designed to stand alone or be enjoyed together, giving visitors an opportunity to return throughout the season for a fresh perspective on the holidays. 

“Gilded is a celebration of Filoli’s legacy and the joy of the season – it’s where history, artistry, and imagination come together to create something truly special.” said President and CEO, Kara Newport. “We’re proud to welcome visitors into this beautifully curated experience that reflects the heart of Filoli, which is as elegant and inclusive as it is full of wonder.”

Gilded is included with all Filoli memberships, offering complimentary daytime access to this signature holiday experience. It’s one of many exclusive benefits members enjoy year-round, from free general admission to discounts on seasonal events and onsite shopping.

Festive Lights and Holiday Delight

This year, veteran scenic designer Arnel Sanciano, known for his theatrical work and imaginative storytelling, has reimagined key spaces throughout the home to add theatrical flair and detail. Throughout the House and Gardens, witness the estate dressed up for the holidays in maximalist dreams, where tradition meets elegance. Stroll through the stately historic House and lush winter Garden, adorned with dazzling décor, elegant details, and dazzling surprises around every corner for a uniquely Californian take on holiday tradition.

“This year, I’m inviting guests to a dazzling new Filoli Holiday experience,” said Sanciano. “The House already holds so much history and character, and my goal was to enhance that magic – especially in spaces like the grand staircase – by layering elements of California’s natural beauty and shaping it in decor that surprises and delights guests of all ages. Gilded is a celebration of nostalgia, imagination, and the joy of transformation, and you can find that all at Filoli.”

A Toast to Tradition on the Garden House

The estate’s Garden House is home to Filoli’s signature Holiday Tea experience, and was where the Bourn and Roth families hosted teas and garden parties. Filoli’s holiday decor was designed by Colleen Dowd Saglimbeni, principal of CDS Interiors and a longtime friend of Filoli. Drawing on her deep ties to the Bay Area design community and her appreciation for Filoli’s legacy, Colleen infused the space with the luxurious textures and graceful charm of a Parisian patisserie. The flocked holiday decor, shimmering lights and lush seasonal florals are the backdrop of an unforgettable experience. 

Like stepping into a scene of Golden Age splendor, The Garden House is a standout moment in the Gilded experience, blending history and hospitality in a way that’s uniquely Filoli.

“Designing the Garden House for Filoli’s holiday season was a true joy,” said Saglimbeni. “The space carries so much history and heart, and I wanted to honor that by creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and inviting while honoring the tradition of intimate gatherings once hosted by Agnes Bourn and Lurline Roth. It’s a place where guests can gather, celebrate, and feel the warmth of the season in a breathtaking setting.”

In the Garden House, guests can enjoy Holiday Tea, a thoughtfully curated, 90-minute afternoon tea featuring a tiered tray of treats, and unlimited champagne or tea. Seated at a family-style table, guests are welcomed into an elegant setting that invites meaningful connection and timeless tradition.  Holiday Tea is a premiere experience with limited seating. Details are available at filoli.org/holidays. 

A Touch of Elegance

Nigella, a longtime creative partner of Filoli, brings its signature artistry to the estate each holiday season and beyond. Specializing in floral design and event décor, the Nigella team transforms the historic House in just two days, infusing it with festive elegance through exquisitely adorned trees, wreaths, and garlands. 

Holidays at Filoli will run from November 22, 2025, to January 11, 2026. For more information, including details around Filoli’s other marquee holiday experiences, Thistlewyck and Holiday Lights, visit filoli.org/holidays.

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Editor’s Note: Hi-res images available to download here (credit: Filoli). 

About Filoli

Filoli, (Pronunciation: F ī / Lō / Lē), a historic house and world-class garden, is located just south of San Francisco in the heart of Silicon Valley. The modern site is situated on the unceded ancestral lands of the Ramaytush Ohlone. Originally built as a private residence in 1917, Filoli was opened to the public in 1975 and is today, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The property is one of the finest remaining country estates of the 20th century, featuring a 54,000+ square-foot Georgian revival-style mansion, 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens, a 6.8-acre Gentleman’s Orchard, and hundreds of acres of natural lands, featuring six distinct ecosystems and two trail loops. Open 363 days a year, Filoli is 30 minutes from San Francisco or San Jose and 20 minutes from SFO.

Media Contact

Megan Garbe
press@filoli.org or megan.garbe@fahlgren.com 

86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA 94062
773-339-9421