Yesterday, popular family theme park Efteling in Holland celebrated its 70th anniversary.

The first 70 families that came through the park's gates were surprised with balloons, a festive welcome by magic jester Pardoes, free cake and exclusive VIP tickets.

Until October 3, Efteling will be celebrating its anniversary every day with a pop-up fairytale called Efteling Wonderland.

Anja Seaton who was visiting Efteling from Ipswich in the UK with her daughter-in-law and grandchildren reacted happily:

"We are currently on holiday in the Netherlands and couldn’t miss a chance to visit Efteling theme park. I can’t wait to explore Efteling with my grandchildren and daughter-in-law and create new memories. We are so happy to be part of the birthday celebrations!”

New pop-up fairytale Efteling Wonderland is located on the Speelweide playing field in the heart of the park. Visitors can play an active part in the mad birthday tea party with the Mad Hatter and the March Hare and join in at the big party table from 12.30 pm and 5:30 pm. At 4 pm staff members will celebrate a special moment with a specially composed birthday song.

Fons Jurgens, CEO of Efteling, said:

"Since our gates opened, we have entertained millions of visitors with stories. Together, people have created countless precious memories here. This is what we are here for because no matter how hard we try to make Efteling even more beautiful than it already is, without our loyal guests, the park would have never become what it is today. Fortunately, in all those seventy years, the visitors have chosen us again and again. So that we can continue to tell stories and facilitate new memories for the next seventy years."

What began in 1952 as a Fairytale Forest with ten fairytales and a playground, has over seventy years grown into a world-class theme park. Throughout the years, millions of visitors have wandered the paths of the Fairytale Forest, tested their courage on thrilling roller coasters, had their photos taken with the magic jester Pardoes, been transported to different worlds on family attractions or stayed the night in Efteling's holiday parks and hotels.

2022 will be a year of celebration for Efteling and all its guests in recognition that this anniversary could never have taken place without its visitors and loyal fans. In addition to the opening of the Efteling Wonderland, garlands will be hung, and party music will be played throughout the park. Every day at 4 pm the park guests are invited to join the celebrations.