Smurf Experience in Brussels attracts 105,000

More than 100,000 people visited Brussels' Smurf Experience over the summer - which has been extended to January before going on a five-year world tour.

One of Belgium’s most successful comic strip properties is celebrating its 60th birthday this year and a large exhibition at Brussels Expo offering a chance to plunge into the magical world of the little blue elves attracted 105,000 visitors over the holidays, according to organiser Cecoforma.

The 1,500m² attraction is taking a one-month break in September before reopening on 3 October with a new scenography and more immersive virtual reality experiences. The show will then run until 27 January.

The Smurfs first appeared as guests in another Franco-Belgian series in 1958 before their creator, Peyo, gave them their own dedicated world. The Smurf Experience recreates the Smurf village and surroundings with the help of special effects and cutting-edge technology.

The Star Wars Identities show also ended on Sunday at Brussels Expo, after a five-month run. Organisers have declined to publish attendance figures.