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Irish Daily Mirror
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
WIN A FAMILY PASS TO THE SMURFS VILLAGE
The Smurfs Village is opening at Beyond the Trees Avondale, Co. Wicklow on July 19th, bringing imagination, adventure and a splash of blue magic to one of Ireland's favourite family destinations. Step into a world of wonder where children are invited to play, laugh, explore and grow alongside their favourite Smurfs characters. Located in the beautiful surroundings of Beyond the Trees Avondale, it promises a family day out full of smiles and magical moments. A first of its kind, this interactive family experience is filled with playful adventures and unforgettable memories. High-five Papa Smurf, giggle with Smurfette, and pass through the magical Kindness Portal. Pot something special at the Smurf and Grow station, wander beneath giant toadstools, and discover surprises around every corner in this immersive land full of heart. Families will love the joyful spirit of The Smurfs Village, designed to celebrate the values of kindness, community and care for nature. Parents can feel confident that their children are not only having fun but are also engaging with meaningful lessons about inclusivity and compassion. Created with care by The Blink Group and supported by the family of the original Smurfs creator, Peyo, this Smurfs themed event brings beloved characters and timeless values together for an exciting journey through kindness, creativity and connection. For more info and tickets, visit To celebrate the opening of The Smurfs Village, we have five family passes to give away to 5 lucky readers! Simply fill out the form below for your chance to win. If you can't see the form above click here *Terms and conditions apply, see entry form for full details.
Irish Independent
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Smurf village with giant toadstools comes to Wicklow as blue fever grips the nation
Opening to the public at 9am on July 19, the day after the release of the new Smurfs movie (starring Rihanna, Nick Offerman and James Corden), The Smurfs Village will be housed in a building on the Avondale grounds that is being fitted out by an expert team from The Blink Group to create a Smurfs world of fun and learning. 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.'
