This fall marks the 38th annual Sculpture in the Garden exhibit. This annual show unites the work of local artists with the curated landscapes of the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. Together, they invite visitors to experience art, the natural world, and the relationship between the two in a new way. 2026 DatesThis year’s show will run from Sunday, September 13 through Sunday, December 6. It will be free and open to the public during normal Garden hours (9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays). Preview Party: Saturday, September 12, 4:30-6:30 p.m.Click here to purchase tickets.
The 38th Annual Sculpture in the Garden Exhibit is an outdoor art show that places three-dimensional works by local creators along the paved and dirt paths of the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Running from mid-September through early December, this display lets you view creative installations integrated directly into the native plant habitats. This self-guided walk is best suited for toddlers in sturdy strollers, preschoolers, and older children who can follow the rule of looking without touching the artwork. Admission to the gardens and the exhibit is entirely free, though you should budget for a small donation if you wish to support the venue. Parking is available in the main on-site lot, which can fill up quickly on pleasant autumn weekends. Restrooms and water fountains are located inside the main education center near the entrance. It makes an excellent weekend outing because it combines fresh air and movement with a cultural activity. You can set your own pace, spend as much time as you need at each installation, and let the kids explore the children's wonder garden area afterward.
