Just for kids: Jo's Grove, nature playscape opens Saturday

It's time to come out and play!

Join us Saturday, May 28 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) for the grand opening of Jo's Grove, the new nature playscape at Ijams. The name honors Josephine Ijams, daughter of H.P. and Alice. 

This area was specifically designed to support our First Child in the Woods program, which emphasizes the spontaneous learning that occurs when children play outdoors. It's a place that will spark creativity and surprise the senses. 

As part of this grand opening event, we will be hosting the first-ever Fairy House and Gnome Home Competition, where participants can create their very own magical structure for their woodland friends. 

This event will conclude with a fairy tea party, complete with whimsical refreshments. 

Children are even invited to come dressed as fairies, gnomes, elves, goblins or any other magical woodland creature! 


Prizes will be given for best costumes and for construction of the best fairy house and/or gnome home. 

This event is free to the public; there is a small fee to build a fairy house or gnome home.




- Text by Jennifer Moore. Photos by Stephen Lyn Bales.