Kids & Family
Fairies Vs. Trolls Scavenger Hunt Comes To Botanic Gardens
From July 15 to August 31, the South Coast Botanic Gardens will have a scavenger hunt to find the Merry Fairy Trollstone.

PALOS VERDES, CA – Fairies and Trolls are going head-to-head in an "epic battle of wits, courage and imagination" at the South Coast Botanic Gardens, and they need all the help from kids they can get. From June 15 to August 31, garden visitors are invited to partake in the Fairies vs. Trolls 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, the press release said.
Fairies vs. Trolls will provide the perfect backdrop to a magical summer of fun – visitors are encouraged to snap "Elfie selfies" amid the blooms, and a troll’s pose will be perfect in the Banyan Forest. Guests may need to tip-toe quietly past a sleepy giant or challenge a fellow fairy to a dance off, the press release said.
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The scavenger hunt will be an educational opportunity for kids as well – 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.
Costumes for all ages are encouraged, 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, the press release said. Those having a fairy-fashion-emergency can stop by the Garden Gift Shop for some charmed style advice.
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“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?” Adrienne Nakashima, CEO, said. “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.”
There will also be two Family Movie Night events, where there will be time to experience Fairies vs. Trolls after-hours. The event 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.
Photo courtesy of the South Coast Botanic Gardens
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