Children's Garden Opening at Daniel Stowe

This new space encourages imagination and exploration

This weekend Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden holds the grand opening of Lost Hollow: The Kimbrell Children's Garden. The interactive acres are designed for children to touch, smell, play, and discover nature firsthand.

The garden draws influence from Old World kingdoms. The Moon Keep (reminiscent of fortified structures of Middle Age castles) has flying buttresses and a moat. The balconette railing runs along the pond and overlooks most of the garden. Lost Hollow includes a mix of manicured gardens and forested space with meandering paths.

This new addition also stays true to the garden's namesake. A limestone fireplace surround that serves as the entrance to the Fireplace Cave came from Stowe's estate, and the 12-foot-tall aviary once housed birds in his garden.

About two years ago, Gastonia textile executive Duke Kimbrell and his wife, Dot, presented the garden with a challenge gift of $2 million. More than 200 additional donors contributed to raise more than $4 million to construct Lost Hollow.

After a donor and member preview, the garden opens to the public at noon on Saturday, October 18. Special performances by Grey Seal Puppets and story-time and craft sessions by Charlotte Parent magazine will take place throughout the afternoon. Face painting, music, and food offerings will also be available. Festivities continue on Sunday, October 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, click here.