Orange County: Bruins on the Troll Trail

Step into a storybook morning with OC Bruins at South Coast Botanic Garden, where Thomas Dambo’s larger-than-life trolls turn a garden stroll into a playful field study.

Join fellow UCLA alumni on Sunday, Sept. 20, for a self-guided group visit to Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: A Field Study, featuring 12 whimsical sculptures crafted from reclaimed wood and tucked throughout the Garden’s 87 acres. We’ll meet at 10:15 a.m. before our 10:30 a.m. ticketed entry time, which has a firm start. Please plan to arrive on time so the group can gather and enter together.

We’ll add a Bruin twist with a photo scavenger hunt: explore the grounds, find the trolls, and capture your most creative poses for a lighthearted photo challenge. Learn more about the exhibit on the Garden’s website: https://southcoastbotanicgarden.org/thomas-dambos-trolls-a-field-study/

This is a relaxed, social way to spend time outdoors, discover one of the South Bay’s standout garden experiences, and connect with Bruins through art, nature, and a little creativity. Space is limited to 15 adult attendees.

Registration is $18 and includes general admission to South Coast Botanic Garden, including access to the TROLLS exhibit. Please note: Registration fees are non-refundable, as event costs are planned.

The Trolls experience may include more remote and rugged areas of the Garden, with uneven terrain, narrow paths and slopes. Guests should be comfortable walking and standing for the duration of the visit.

Please be respectful of Garden paths, plantings, fellow visitors, and exhibit guidelines while enjoying the scavenger hunt. By attending, you acknowledge that photos may be taken and used in future OC Bruins or UCLA Alumni communications.

We hope you’ll join us for a morning of art, nature, Bruin connection, and memorable troll photos.

RSVP coming soon.