A Magical Competition is Brewing to Mark the Official Start of Summer at South Coast Botanic Garden

Are you #TeamFairy or #TeamTroll? It’s time to choose a side because these magical creatures are going head-to-head in an epic battle of wits, courage and imagination — and they need your help!
Beginning Friday, June 15 and continuing through Friday, August 31, Garden visitors are invited to use their wits, courage and imagination in this inspired treasure hunt throughout the 87-acre nature space.
Enchanted map in hand, questers will explore rustic nature trails and manicured formal gardens in a search for hidden doors that will lead to a priceless prize — a Merry Fairy Trollstone! Along the way, visitors will experience 2,500 different species of plants from around the globe and an array of active wildlife.
Fairies vs. Trolls will provide the perfect backdrop to a magical summer of fun! Elfie selfies will surely be snapped amid the blooms and a troll’s pose will be perfect in the Banyan Forest. The activity will stoke imaginations and inspire creative play. Guests may need to tip-toe quietly past a sleepy giant or challenge a fellow fairy to a dance off!
In addition to fun and adventure, parents will appreciate the opportunities for summertime learning – even if the kids are having too much fun to notice. The Fairy Flower Footpath will provide information about flowers, and the Trollish Tree Trail will give educational content about trees. Kids will also test their map reading and navigational skills.
Cosplaying enthusiasts of all ages are invited to dress for the occasion, since wings, troll hats, capes, wands and crowns will only enhance the experience. Though, be warned, costumes both real and imaginary should include sensible footwear to ensure everyone can safely traverse the trails. Those having a fairy-fashion-emergency can stop by the Garden Gift Shop for some charmed style advice.
“South Coast Botanic Garden is truly a magical nature space, and Fairies vs. Trolls helps to build on that. What better way to explore it than to use your imagination as a guide?” said Adrienne Nakashima, CEO. “We have been experimenting with ways to encourage people to really take in the wonders of our woodland habitat. In their search for the imaginary inhabitants, participants will see bunnies hopping through the trails, owls perched in the trees, and a wide array of botanicals ranging from desert plants to showy blossoms.”
For an opportunity to experience Fairies vs. Trolls after-hours, consider attending two Family Movie Night events, which will offer time to complete your hunt, a spot for picnicking, concessions for purchase, and live entertainment before the sun sets. June 29 will feature Dreamwork’s “Trolls” and a lively family dance party and July 13 will showcase Disney’s “Coco” with a mariachi performance. Family Movie Night tickets are $5 for members and $10 for non-members and can be purchased via this link general admission or at www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org. The event is free for members. To become a member, click new member registration.

Credit: South Coast Botanic Garden
South Coast Botanic Garden is a stunning public garden planted atop a former open-pit mine and subsequent garbage landfill.

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