We’ve always known Wauwatosa has huge things happening, but our troll, Mama Rosa, takes it to the next level. Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist who uses recycled materials to make masterpieces, created another spectacular and one-of-a-kind troll, featured in Firefly Grove Park. There are over 150 trolls scattered across the world, each one with a special personality. Mama Rosa, Wisconsin’s first troll, is nestled in Wauwatosa’s Firefly Grove Park and is kept company by many whimsical and artistic features.
Visit Mama Rosa in Firefly Grove Park
On your way into the heart of Firefly Grove Park, a sweet troll is waiting to meet you. Giant repurposed lamp posts light the way, although a few have gone missing...Mama Rosa will happily give you a whiff of her flowers, although they might not smell as good as you thought they would!
For the last 10 years, Thomas Dambo has been traveling around the world and building larger-than-life troll statues out of recycled materials to promote sustainability. He has artwork in over 20 countries across 5 continents. Hidden throughout the world in nature, these trolls are meant to help people realize how everyday bits, scraps and leftovers can be transformed into meaningful art pieces.
When you visit our troll, come and act like one! Trolls like to...
Respect their neighbors and environment. Please stay on designated paths and be mindful of wildlife, parking regulations, and others in Firefly Grove Park. Mama Rosa will accept any hugs, but we ask that you refrain from sitting, climbing or standing on any part of her.
Keep their own belongings! When leaving the park, please make sure to take all of your items with you, including any personal belongings, and leave any pre-existing parts of the park.
Mama Rosa Merchandise
See our new gear and take a piece of Wauwatosa home with you.
You're in luck! If you are in the upper Midwest area, you are a short road trip away from 7 Thomas Dambo sculptures!
Detroit Lakes Installations
A six for one deal, Detroit Lakes boasts several of Thomas Dambo giant sculptures within one city. Take a jaunt up to Detroit Lakes and see 5 trolls, 1 Golden Rabbit, 3 magic portals, along with a few hundred bird houses. Detroit Lakes is about 8 hours away from Wauwatosa, with scenic views, lots of fresh water, and plenty of events to go around.
Venture into Michigan, where a master fisherman awaits you. We could all learn a few things about multipurpose objects from Benny the Beard Fisher. Benny lives about 5 hours away from Wauwatosa, and to see Benny, all you have to do is stop at the front desk of Northland Outfitters Campgrounds, pay a small fee per vehicle, and dust off that fishing pole!
The main pathway is wheelchair accessible throughout the whole park, looping around all of the park features. There is handicap parking available on the street by the north entrance, and several play features at wheelchair transfer height.
Can I take my dog with me?
All leashed dogs are welcome.
Where can I park?
Street parking is available along 116th Street, Gilbert Avenue, and Walnut Street.
What are the hours of the park and is there a cost associated with going?
The park is free to all and open from 7 am to 10 pm daily.
Mama Rosa
How long will Mama Rosa be here?
We anticipate Mama Rosa being around for the foreseeable future. The City of Wauwatosa plans on maintaining and caring for our troll in the coming years.
Can we touch and take photos with Mama Rosa?
Absolutely! She is there to be appreciated and loved by the public, so feel free to give her hugs and snap a photo. We ask that you refrain from jumping, sitting, or climbing on her. If you post any photos on socials, we would love to see them! Tag us or use #WauwatosaTroll or #MamaRosa to get featured on our website!
How was Mama Rosa paid for?
Mama Rosa was paid for using the hotel/motel tax revenue. This money is intended to further tourism efforts, showcasing and adding to what makes Wauwatosa special.
What is Mama Rosa made of?
Mama Rosa is made from Wauwatosa's urban forest. Our troll was made entirely of recycled materials, which is one of the main criteria Thomas Dambo has for a good troll.
When are Mama Rosa's lights on?
Mama Rosa's lights have light sensors in them, and they activate once the sky begins to get darker. So, as the sun sets earlier, the lights will turn on earlier, and as the sun sets later, the lights turn on later. The lights remain on until the park closes at 10 pm.
