The fairies that reside at Adkins Arboretum need new homes every Fall – and you can help! Create a whimsical Fairy House using natural materials and your wild imagination. Your Fairy House can be as simple or elaborate as you wish.
The Great Fairy House Challenge is open to all ages. Houses will be sorted into three categories: Houses built by individuals of varying ages (for example: grandparents and grandchildren), houses built by individuals aged 16 and over, and houses built by individuals under age 16. Houses will be judged and prizes will be awarded.
Fairy Houses entered in The Great Fairy House Challenge will be displayed on the Fairy House Trail, located on the Upland Walk, for visitors to admire and fairies to enjoy. The Fairy House Trail is a self-guided journey through the woods of Adkins. Bring your imagination and explore the Trail at your own pace throughout the entire month of October. Costumes are encouraged!
Rules
• Use only native plant materials to avoid the introduction of non-native species. Native dry grasses, leaves, sticks, pebbles, shells, bark from a fallen tree, seed pods, acorns, berries, gourds, miniature pumpkins, pinecones, and flowers are a few examples of acceptable building materials. Absolutely no glitter is allowed.
• All Fairy Houses must appear to be made entirely of natural components. Hot glue, nails, twine, and other man-made items can be used but must be entirely concealed by natural elements. No paper products that will disintegrate in rain and no metal that could rust.
• Houses must be no larger than 16” x 16” wide x 24” high. Please use a sturdy base that can hold up when wet, such as plywood. All Fairy House building materials must be secured to the house itself or the base. Decorations must not extend beyond the base. (For example, decorations may not be hung in nearby trees or sprinkled on the ground beyond the base.)
• Please do not use any items of value. Adkins Arboretum is not responsible for any loss or damage.
• All Fairy House creators must complete the submission form. Submission forms may be filled out online by clicking here. Printed forms are also available at the Visitor's Center.
• Fairy Houses must be dropped off at the Visitor’s Center between October 1–10. Arboretum Staff will place your Fairy House on the Fairy House trail.
• Fairy Houses must be collected between November 1–9.
Fairy House creators will be acknowledged at the close of Fairyfest in the area behind the Visitor’s Center. Please stay for applause! Votes will be tallied on the afternoon of October 31. Winners will be notified in the following days.
Questions? Click to email Lisa Sheehan or call 410-634-2847.
Fairy House Inspiration
Enjoy a selection of photos of houses that were entered in The Great Fairy House Challenge 2024.
