A troupe of whimsical troll sculptures is coming to Woodside’s Filoli Estate & Gardens this summer. Beginning June 7th, 2025, visitors can wander through the redwood forest and experience TROLLS: Save the Humans, an imaginative outdoor exhibit by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Known for his towering sculptures made from reclaimed materials, Dambo has installed six of his iconic trolls on Filoli’s property, each hidden throughout the grounds for guests to discover on a scenic stroll. This marks the first time his work has been featured in California’s redwoods.
Exhibition story and highlights
With over 101 troll sculptures already on display worldwide, Dambo continues his global storytelling through TROLLS: Save the Humans at Filoli, presented in collaboration with producer Imagine. This new chapter follows six young “activist trolls” on a mission to help humans rediscover their bond with the Earth. Each troll has a unique personality and purpose, from “Ronja Redeye,” who leads the group with a voice like whistling wind, to “Ibbi Pip,” who is busy building birdhouses.
The enchanting outdoor exhibition explores our relationship with nature through the lens of folklore and poetry. As a recycling art activist, Thomas Dambo transforms trash and discarded materials into whimsical, evocative sculptural pieces—inviting visitors to reconnect with the environment and feel inspired to protect it.
“I’m so happy my Trolls get to spend some time amongst the giant redwoods at Filoli,” said Dambo. “I spent a day hiking in the forest, and it is a magical place where I know my Trolls will feel at home.”
Making the most of Filoli
If you’ve still not made a day trip to Filoli, Dambo’s exhibition offers the perfect excuse to see the property this summer. The expansive estate features a 56-room historic mansion, a beautifully landscaped 16-acre formal garden, and year-round events. While the trolls are in residence, visitors may catch the garden blooming with roses, lavender, hydrangeas, and thriving fruit trees.
During the exhibition, Filoli will offer family-friendly activities focused on nature play and wellness, including a play area built from oak trees, and live theater and musical performances.
🗓️ Dates: TROLLS: Save the Humans will be on display from June 7th to November 10th, 2025
📍 Location: Filoli Estate & Gardens, 86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, CA 94062
🌐 Tickets: You can get daytime admission tickets to Filoli here