Hendersonville – A little extra magic is coming to Bullington Gardens with the return of the fairy trail through August 31.
The fairy trail winds through Bullington Gardens and features handcrafted “fairy” doors throughout the picturesque natural setting. Approximately one foot tall or smaller, the doors add a whimsical touch, encouraging visitors to stretch their imagination to imagine the spritely inhabitants.
The fairy doors also serve the very practical purpose of highlighting the nonprofit Bullington Gardens’ supporters and sponsors.
According to Education Coordinator Rosie Reeves, the fairy trail has been a favorite event since 2017. In 2023, nearly 9,000 visitors came through the fairy trial. “Fairies are something everyone can enjoy,” said Reeves. “The fairy trail adds a little magic to everyday life, and a little extra joy, which I think we all need right now.”
This year’s exhibit includes a few new fairy vignettes, including a fairy magic shop. Bullington Gardens has also added Fairy Acres to the exhibit. The addition includes natural materials such as bark, straw and plant matter to the children’s area so that visiting kids can create their own fairy door while playing in the garden. “Even if people have been here before, there’s something new for them to discover this year,” said Reeves.
Entrance to the fairy trail and gardens is by donation. Hours are 9am-4pm Monday through Saturday.
For youngsters looking for more ways to participate in the magic, Bullington Gardens also hosted a Dress Up As A Fairy contest during the morning of Saturday, July 27. More than a dozen entrants of all ages visited the park while wearing fairy and elf costumes, many of which were home made. Throughout the week, Bullington Gardens’ social media followers voted for the favorite participant. The winner will receive a fairy tea party complete with wand making, a guided walk, and a garden tea party. Proceeds from the Dress Up As A Fairy contest entry fees will go to support Bullington Gardens conservation and education efforts.
Bullington Gardens is a nonprofit, public botanical garden on 12 acres in Henderson County. The mission of the organization is to connect adults and children through horticultural education.