Trolls, Trails and Tales
A Magical Family Adventure at Filoli this Summer
Through November 10
This summer, adventure awaits your family at Filoli with TROLLS: Save the Humans! Discover six larger-than-life troll sculptures created by world-renowned artist Thomas Dambo, known for turning recycled materials into magical, folklore-inspired figures. Set along the scenic trails of Filoli’s Natural Lands, these gentle giants blend imagination, sustainability, and outdoor fun—perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.
Families can deepen the experience with special programs like Family Nature Weekend, filled with hands-on crafts, storytelling, and outdoor exploration that connect kids to nature in playful, meaningful ways. Or you can dive into Transforming Trash, where children can turn recycled materials into their own bold, colorful art!
Whether you’re building a birdhouse like Ibbi Pip, creating eco-art like Dambo himself, or just hiking to meet a friendly forest giant, Filoli’s Trolls experience is a joyful way for families to reconnect—with nature, creativity, and each other.
Access to the TROLLS: Save the Humans exhibit is included in both General Admission and Member Admission tickets.
*Experience exclusive after-hours access to Trolls during Summer Nights—one ticket, two unforgettable programs!
Meet the Trolls!
Which Troll Are You?
Before you come meet the Trolls, take this quick personality quiz to find out which Troll you are most similar to! Once you get your result, click on your match above and learn more about your kindred troll spirit.
About Thomas Dambo
Thomas Dambo is considered the world’s leading recycle artist, having been taught from a young age the value of recycling, sustainability, and unlimited imagination. Previously, Thomas has led a multifaceted life that allowed him to express his creativity via music, street art, and scenic design. After graduating from the Kolding Design School with a master’s degree in interactive design, Thomas began his current journey of using recycled materials to create colorful art installations, building the foundation for his artwork today.
Thomas’ high level of creativity drives the creation of highly interactive experiences, allowing users to express their own individuality on a large scale. From gardens made of recycled plastics to a functioning Christmas market made from commercial refuse, Thomas creates experiences that are immersive, interactive, and awe-inspiring. Today, Thomas is known internationally for his larger-than-life Troll sculptures made from recycled wood. With over 100 sculptures all over the world, these Trolls have begun to have a life of their own.
Thomas’ vision is to create art that inspires people to go explore, have adventures in nature, and demonstrates that trash can be turned into something beautiful.
Trolls Programs & Events
Transforming Trash
June 22, July 9, August 10, & September 10, 2025
11am–2pm
Turn trash into treasure! Drop by for hands-on art activities inspired by TROLLS: Save the Humans, where recycled materials become bold, imaginative creations. Just like the Trolls, we’ll reimagine discarded things into beautiful art. You can craft bold symbols like Basse Buller, build with “eternity materials” like Kamma Can, or design colorful birdhouses like Ibbi Pip. Let the Trolls inspire your creativity!
Cost: Free with General Admission; no registration required
Family Nature Weekend
July 12 & 13, 2025
Saturday & Sunday | 10am–5pm
Reconnect with the outdoors and one another at Filoli’s Family Nature Weekend! Discover how nature brings us together with hands-on crafts, eco-friendly fun, and outdoor exploration inspired by the message of TROLLS: Save the Humans. Every station—from storytelling to sustainable art—sparks creativity, curiosity, and connection with the planet.
Children's Corner
Families & kids alike can explore Filoli's Natural Lands to meet the Trolls and immerse themselves in nature through unique experiences and activities that's sure to spark creativity and wonder! Check out some of our Trolls-inspired experiences below and don't miss out on family-friendly summer adventures!
Activity Backpacks
Become an expert explorer with your very own Activity Backpack! These kid-sized bags are equipped with all the tools needed for adventure in the Natural Lands, including a picture book, magnifying glass, binoculars, notebook, kaleidoscope, and compass.
Be sure to start your day early as these backpacks will be first-come, first-serve on the day of your arrival and cannot be reserved beforehand.
Nature Playspace
This immersive and creative environment inspires curiosity, hands-on exploration, and fun in a natural, sustainable setting. Designed for children to engage in imaginative play, this area includes a loose parts play space, a pretend play area, and a winding pathway with tunnels, logs, and maze-like features to explore.
Nature Playspace is sponsored by US Bank Private Wealth Management.
Secret Scribble Book
The Trolls are communicating a special message to you. Most adults only see scribbles, but kids can read the Troll's secret alphabet to decode what they are telling the humans. Before your adventure starts, make sure to ask a Filoli staff member for a Trolls Secret Scribble Book to learn how to read the Trolls' alphabet!
TROLLS: Save the Humans is generously sponsored by:
Basse Buller
Sponsored by:
Filoli's Board of Directors
Ibbi Pip
Sponsored by:
The Wollenberg Family
Kamma Can
Sponsored by:
Jackie Chang and Fred Huang
Ronja Redeye
Sponsored by:
Sofus Lotus
Sponsored by:
Dennis and Julie Carlson
and Family
Children's Nature Playspace
Sponsored by:
Family Nature Weekend
Sponsored by:
Media Sponsor
