Ladybug Day at Magnolia

It’s time again for one of the area’s most wholesome, family-friendly events  -  Ladybug Day at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.  2024 marks its 11th year.

Magnolia is Charleston’s most visited plantation.  Dating back to 1676, it opened to the public in 1870 and boasts the oldest public gardens in America.  Its historic collection of camellias is one of the world’s best.

Ladybugs are more than cute little critters.  They also are invaluable members of the ecological community, contributing to the overall health of the garden.  They help keep other destructive insects like the dreaded aphid under control.

The ladybug release is a fun way to get 144,000 of those guys out into the gardens at Magnolia, so they can do their thing.  It’s also a great chance for kids to dress up in cute costumes, help Mother Earth, and learn more about the environment.

Here are the details about Magnolia’s Ladybug Day…

• Saturday, July 27th  from 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.
• Ladybug release is included with your admission to Magnolia.
• Pick up your container of ladybugs at the ticket kiosk when you arrive.  Scatter out to your favorite spot in the gardens to release them.
• There will be plenty of nature displays, environmental groups and exhibitors, along with the fan-favorite Volkswagen Beetle dressed up like a ladybug.
• Kids are encouraged to come dressed up in a ladybug costume.
• Costume contest in these categories:  age 3 and under, ages 4 to 6, ages 7 and up, and family or group.
• Vendors including Charleston Jump Castles, face painting and live music.
• Tickets are $29 adults, $15 for kids 6 and up, while children 5 and under get in free.  You can buy tickets in advance here.
• Find out more on the event’s Facebook page.

NOTE: Date and details for 2024 are tentative.  Please check back closer to the event for the latest info.