Images © Moomin Characters
Summer of Moomin is a whimsical outdoor adventure inspired by Tove Jansson, bringing crafts, quests, and larger-than-life characters to the Bronx.
At a Glance
Takes Place May 23 – September 13, 2026
Location: New York Botanical Garden
Best For: Elementary-age kids, nature-loving families, fun summer outings
Most activities are outdoors—so dress accordingly and bring water
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Right in the Bronx This Summer
There’s a difference between loving the Moomins and living them. Whether you grew up with Moominvalley or your kids have recently fallen down that rabbit hole, this brand new outing makes the leap from screen to real life.
The New York Botanical Garden is running its Summer of Moomin, and most of it is centered in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, which is already the part of the garden kids actually want to be in.
There are oversized Moomin characters set up around the space, a simple clue-based quest that gives kids something to focus on, and hands-on nature crafts they can sit and do. It’s structured enough to keep things moving so you don’t get stuck in any one place, but also allows downtime so you don’t feel rushed either.
Images © Moomin Characters
The stories have always been about exploring, being outside, and figuring things out along the way, which makes NYBG a pretty natural fit. The activation also runs alongside NYBG’s existing Flower Power exhibition, so you’re getting two things in one visit.
Why They Stick
Tove Jansson created the Moomins in 1945, and if you’ve kept up with the stories, you know they’ve lasted for a reason. It’s not really about the look as much as it is the warmth, slow pace, and the way nature runs through everything Jansson wrote. That’s partly why they have held up in a way that a lot of franchise characters simply haven’t.
This installation is also a bit of a milestone and is one of the biggest Moomin moments the U.S. has seen. Also, NYBG and Moomin Characters have collaborated on exclusive merchandise, so there’s something to bring home, too.
Images © Moomin Characters
Plan your Visit
The adventure runs May 23 through September 13 at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden is included with garden admission. Mornings on weekdays are your best bet for smaller crowds, especially once school lets out in June.
Check NYBG’s website closer to the opening date for full programming details, craft schedules, and any ticketed events tied to the activation.
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