Smurf village with giant toadstools comes to Wicklow as blue fever grips the nation
A family business owned by Graham Carroll and his wife Ger Walsh, The Blink Group has been in negotiations with the family of the Smurfs founder Peyo for the past three years.
'We needed to present to the team in Belgium our vision for their beloved Smurfs family,' Graham explained.
'We wanted to be in a location that was all about family fun and engagement and we are thrilled that we have secured an agreement to house The Smurfs Village at Beyond the Trees Avondale located at Avondale Forest Park, County Wicklow.
'In our 19 years in business, The Smurfs Village is our biggest investment to date. We will spend over €1.5m creating these interactive Smurf themed family events in Ireland and the UK.
'We have invested time and money into this experience because we believe that the Smurfs message of kindness, compassion and inclusivity is needed now more than ever in society'.
'We are building a space where every detail, every colour, every sound and oversized toadstool feels like it's straight from the heart of Smurf-land,' Ger added.
'In that world, we are aiming that children aren't just entertained. They are celebrated and inspired. Parents can also feel confident that their children are not only having fun but are also engaging with meaningful lessons about community and compassion.'
To ensure that every family has a fun filled experience, 22 staff will man The Smurfs Village, where children don't just play, but 'grow and wear the heart of the Smurfs'.
Their values of kindness, respect, community and care for the natural world will be brought to life in the most joyful and meaningful way from the Smurf and Grow station, where children are encouraged to get their hands dirty and pot a plant to the Kindness Portal.
Beyond the Trees senior operations manager Karen O'Neill commented: 'The team is delighted that The Smurfs Village will be opening its doors in two weeks.
'It will be another unique offering alongside the other fabulous attractions we have on site, from the beautiful Treetop Walk to Avondale House. Alongside walking trails in historical woodlands to tasty food and drink options.'
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