HUNTSVILLE, AL (March 11, 2025) – On April 1, 2025, at 10 a.m., Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) will officially unveil its newest and most enchanting attraction—the Mother Earth Troll Garden, featuring Mama Zelda, a breathtaking, larger-than-life troll sculpture created by internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo. The ribbon-cutting event will celebrate this extraordinary addition to the Garden and its significance as a cultural and environmental landmark for the region.
“The Mother Earth Troll Garden and Mama Zelda represent the very heart of what we do at Huntsville Botanical Garden—connecting people with nature in meaningful and unforgettable ways,” said HBG CEO Susan Wagner. “This project blends art, sustainability, and community, creating a space where visitors of all ages can explore, discover, and be inspired. We are excited to collaborate with Thomas Dambo to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to Huntsville, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”
This event will welcome city and county officials, donors, sponsors, board members, business leaders, and travel and tourism representatives to witness the grand reveal of Mama Zelda, who stands as a symbol of sustainability, community, and connection to nature. After the ribbon is cut, the Mother Earth Troll Garden area will be open to the public with Garden admission.
“Mama Zelda is more than a sculpture—she’s a storyteller, a guardian of the natural world, and a reminder of the beauty that comes from reimagining what is often overlooked,” said Thomas Dambo, known globally for his towering troll installations crafted from recycled materials. “It is an honor to bring her to Huntsville, and I hope she will inspire people for years to come to rethink the value of their trash and see that beautiful things can be made from it.”
The Mother Earth Troll Garden is a first-of-its-kind immersive experience, featuring a maze of native plants, shaded seating areas, and hidden surprises along winding paths that lead to Mama Zelda’s tranquil resting place. As a permanent installation, Mama Zelda will become a cornerstone attraction at the Garden, drawing visitors from across the country to experience her magic and the Garden’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Details:
• Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Location: Huntsville Botanical Garden
Following the ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to explore the Mother Earth Troll Garden, meet key figures behind the project, and learn more about the sustainable artistry of Thomas Dambo.
RSVP & Media Requests:
Due to limited capacity, attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance by registering at https://bit.ly/mamazelda. Registration is free and open to the public. Media representatives interested in covering the event or interviewing key speakers may contact HBG Director of Communication and Guest Experience Laura McPhail at 256-830-4447 ext. 226 or at lmcphail@hsvbg.org.
For more information, visit https://hsvbg.org/visit/exhibits/troll-garden/.
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About Huntsville Botanical Garden
Huntsville Botanical Garden is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to connect people to plants in order to support a healthier quality of life for the region. Open year-round, the Garden contains diverse ecosystems to explore within its 118 acres. From grassy meadows to woodland paths, aquatic habitats to stunning floral collections, the Garden invites guests of all ages to discover the beauty and wonder of the natural environment. For more information, visit hsvbg.org.
