Bricktopia World: From one-time success to returning spectacle

A look behind the scenes of Dutchbricks' biggest LEGO® event and why it will be continued.

What if one weekend unleashes so much energy that it can't be a one-time event? When we organised Bricktopia World at the MECC Maastricht in May 2025, we did so with one goal in mind: to go big for a one- time event. An anniversary edition, in honour of ten years of Dutchbricks. Bricktopia World brought LEGO fans, builders, sellers and curious visitors together for a weekend full of creativity, experiences and encounters. But what we didn't know at the time was that it would be such a success for visitors, exhibitors and us as a club that it planted the seed for something bigger.

With over 6,400 visitors, an exhibition floor covering 3,000 m² and an average rating of 8.8, it was clear: Bricktopia World had sparked something. The energy, the collaboration, the pride... it felt like something we couldn't just ignore.

But it was supposed to be a one-time thing, wasn't it?

That's right. That was definitely the intention. We stood our ground: it was a one- time thing. But to be honest, it started to itch. Both inside and outside Dutchbricks, the question was being asked more and more often: ‘Will there be another edition?’

What stood out was that we received a remarkable number of compliments, especially from external participants, about the professional approach, the atmosphere and the organisation. Bricktopia World was described by many as an event that was truly missing in the Benelux, a place where building, meeting and experiencing come together in a way that you rarely see.

That kind of feedback means a lot to us as a club. It confirms that we have created something special. And that perhaps it doesn't have to be a one-time event after all.

Bricktopia World is also starting to make a name for itself internationally. During the Skaerbaek Fan Weekend in Denmark, one of the largest AFOL events in Europe, we had valuable discussions with LEGO and various exhibitors. And when you are approached with: ‘You are from that event in the Netherlands, right?’ then you can be quite proud as a club.

Why a second edition?

In the months following the event, we conducted an extensive evaluation as the board and core team. What went well? What could be improved? And above all: can we repeat this in a sustainable manner without overburdening our club?

The answer turned out to be yes, provided we approach it correctly, with sufficient preparation time, a clear division of roles, and a location that grows with our ambitions.

• There is enthusiasm within the club to once again achieve something special;

• There is a growing group of members who want to actively contribute ideas and help organise events;

• There is space: the MECC Maastricht offers us a starting area of 6,000 m², with growth opportunities up to 10,000 m² and, if necessary, even up to 27,000 m², spread over several halls;

• There is ambition: we want to continue to grow Bricktopia World as a creative, connecting and recognisable event.

What will be different?

Bricktopia World 2027 will not be a copy of 2025, but a further development. Larger, more international, and with even more focus on experience. Think of:

• 🌍 International exhibitors and zones with diverse building styles;

• 🧱 Interactive zones;

• 🎤 Lectures en workshops;

• 🛍️ Sales stands with parts, sets en specials;

• ❤️ Space for social initiatives;

• 🧩 More peace and quiet, better routing and crowd flow;

• 🏨 Accommodation options in the area, from hotels to holiday parks.

We are building an event that is not only impressive for visitors, but also remains workable and enjoyable for our volunteers and members.

What does the process look like?

We take ample time to prepare thoroughly. The most important milestones are:

📅 1 September to 30 November 2026: registration for participants and exhibitors

🎟️ 1 December 2026: start of ticket sales

📍 10 and 11 April 2027: Bricktopia World at the MECC Maastricht

Bricktopia World is open to everyone, from avid builders to curious visitors. You don't need to be a member of Dutchbricks to come and have a look or join in. Would you like to participate as a builder, seller or volunteer? Then you can register from September 2026 onwards.

Would you like to visit Bricktopia World? Then mark 1 December 2026 in your calendar. That's when advance sales start.

And then what?

Bricktopia World is more than just a trade fair. It is a place where building, meeting and marvelling come together. That is why we are working step by step towards an internationally recognised AFOL Networking Event (ANE). 2027 will be an important step, and if it is successful, we can take the next, bigger step in 2029 or 2030. Bricktopia World is alive and well, and we look forward to continuing to build this story together.

This blog was written by Patrick de Klerk, chairman of Dutchbricks and project leader of Bricktopia World 2027. In his role as initiator and organiser, he shares the story behind the second edition and the ambition to further grow Bricktopia World as a unifying LEGO® event for the entire community.