Toy Museum Mechelen to reopen at new location in station building

The Toy Museum Mechelen will open its doors on Saturday 5 October at its new location at Mechelen’s central station. The museum, which has been completely renovated, shows the importance of play in everyone's life and challenges people to step into the world of toys and games.

After 42 years, the museum’s old location near Nekkerspoel station was completely used up. The Toy Museum had long been looking for a new location, which was finally found in the new station building at Mechelen’s central station.

“It’s an ideal location for us because it’s completely underground, which is important for our collection, as it should not come into direct contact with sunlight,” explained Bart Stroobants, chairman of non-profit Speelgoedmuseum Mechelen. “Our new concession runs for 25 years but we hope to stay here much longer.”

The move has also involved a total revamp of the museum concept. In different rooms, visitors are confronted with questions such as “What is play?” or “Why do we play?”. In addition, the idea is that they can effectively play with the toys and games, not just look at them. A large wall in the cafeteria invites children to colour in a wall drawing with wax crayons and interactive features ensure that all visitors rediscover the child in themselves and get creative.

Numerous extra activities are planned during the opening weekend. The museum offers explanations in three languages – Dutch, English and French – and is easily accessible, with its location at Mechelen’s central station. All info is available at https://www.speelgoedmuseum.be/en/.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Mechelen's mayor Bart Somers during the press launch of Toy Museum Mechelen at its new location © BELGA PHOTO KATLEEN VASTIAU}