The Netherlands - The transformation of Familyland, a vacation park in Hoogerheide, Netherlands, into “Familie Resort & Avonturenpark De Tovertuin” has officially begun. This new theme park, centered around the beloved children’s characters Woezel & Pip, is slated to open in 2026.
Symbolic Handover Marks Construction Start
On September 21, 2024, Michael van Hoorne, CEO of Van Hoorne Studios, and Rainier Schuurbiers, a local official, ceremoniously handed over the park’s key to mascots of Woezel and Pip, symbolizing the commencement of construction. This event also featured an exhibition showcasing historical photographs of Familyland alongside new designs for the upcoming park.
Planned Attractions and Features
“De Tovertuin” aims to offer a fully immersive experience for families with children up to 10 years old. The park will feature various attractions themed around Woezel & Pip, including a trackless dark ride developed by ETF Ride Systems, known for their work on Efteling’s Symbolica. Additionally, the park will host a theater for live shows, meet-and-greet areas, and daily parades featuring the characters.
Investment and Development Timeline
Van Hoorne Studios acquired Familyland earlier in 2024, with plans to invest approximately €47 million in the redevelopment project. While most of Familyland’s facilities remain operational during the initial construction phase, certain amenities, such as the swimming pool, have been closed for extensive renovations. The park’s restaurants and bowling alley are scheduled to close on January 1, 2025, to undergo their transformations.
The development of “De Tovertuin” reflects a growing trend in the Netherlands to create theme parks based on popular children’s franchises, aiming to provide immersive and interactive experiences for young audiences.
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