Terminal 1: New digital arts and gaming venue opens at Brussels Expo

The new immersive space Terminal 1 at Brussels Expo has been officially inaugurated by Brussels mayor Philippe Close (PS) and the site’s director Denis Delforge.

Located in the former Hall 1 of the emblematic trade and exhibition complex, the 10,000m2 venue is dedicated to entertainment, digital arts and video games.

The hybrid space – designed for collective experiences – includes the digital show The Last Days of Pompeii, a virtual journey through the ancient city, which opened at the end of October.

It also offers VR gaming in two free-roam arenas - including a shooting and zombie experience, high-tech racing and driving simulators, indoor karting with augmented reality and a series of gastronomic experiences.

Although the venue is a trailblazer for Europe, it was inspired by similar experiences in the US, including Area 15 in Las Vegas, Artechouse in New York and the Illuminarium in Atlanta.

Terminal 1 also aims to serve as a platform for collaborations between artists, brands and tech professionals, as part of a wider mission to make the Belgian capital a major hub for cultural innovation and immersive entertainment in Europe.

Its diverse digital entertainment ranges from EVA Brussels for e-sports and virtual reality enthusiasts, The Sim Power for driving on professional simulators and a unique immersive e-karting concept where the track becomes an interactive digital environment.

“In a world where screens isolate us from one another, Terminal 1 brings us together. It's a place where you don't just watch, but where you live, feel and share,” pointed out Delforge.

The new function for Brussels Expo is the latest in the site’s diversification of its activities, following the creation of the ING Arena concert hall in one of its former spaces.

While B2B trade fairs and exhibitions have returned to pre-Covid affluence, consumer fairs are still suffering.

The 1935 Art Deco exhibition centre, that originally housed 12 halls, is in need of public investment to meet the standards required for hosting international trade shows, added its director.

Photos: ©Terminal 1