EBS STAFF
The award-winning art installation, Bumblewood Thicket Fairy Village, is returning to Bozeman’s Glen Lake Rotary Park between Sept. 5 and 21.
Produced by local nonprofit arts organization Random Acts of Silliness in partnership with Gallatin Valley Land Trust and the City of Bozeman, Bumblewood Thicket “transforms the wooded trails into a whimsical fairy haven,” according to a Sept. 2 GVLT press release. The installation is made possible by “a team of 20 fairy architects,” or local artists and makers, who craft fairy homes and businesses. Now entering its sixth year in Bozeman, the 2024 attraction gathered 19,000 visitors of all ages.
“We are honored to support Random Acts of Silliness and Bumblewood Thicket every year,” stated GVLT Executive Director Chet Work in the release. “The incredible creativity of these local artists attracts people of all ages to our local trails and increases their comfort outdoors, which can provide a lifetime of physical and mental health benefits.”
The installation has earned several awards for inspiring first-time trail visits and offering high-quality art in a natural setting, including a Citation of Merit from the Montana Trails, Recreation and Parks Association and the 2025 Advancing Trails Award from American Trails.
New this year, every Saturday night from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., will feature Enchanted Evenings in Bumblewood, consisting of storytelling, live music and dance on the trails. These events are free, and the Thicket is open to the public during the regular park hours from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
