IKEA Wilrijk Says Goodbye to Iconic Ball Pit After 30 Years

After nearly three decades, IKEA Wilrijk in Belgium has bid farewell to its beloved ball pit, a staple of the Småland play area. The closure, which took place on March 7, 2026, marks the first such removal in Belgium, with other IKEA stores expected to follow suit according to VRT News.

A Celebration of Nostalgia

The farewell wasn’t a somber occasion, but rather a celebration of memories. IKEA Wilrijk hosted a special event complete with a DJ, Swedish-themed treats and a hunt for a golden ball. The event drew families eager for one last chance to experience the iconic play area.

Bert and Marijke, accompanied by their daughter Charlotte, were among the first to take a final plunge into the ball pit. “A ball pool has always been fun to play in and now we have the chance to jump into it again,” they shared with enthusiasm as reported by VRT News. Other parents also attended, wanting to share the experience with their children and reminisce about their own childhoods.

A Shift Towards Varied Play Experiences

The decision to remove the ball pit isn’t due to hygiene concerns, but rather a strategic move to offer children more diverse play options. Johanna Knecht, marketing manager at IKEA Wilrijk, explained that the company aims to provide a wider range of experiences for children as stated in a VRT News interview.

The new concept for the Småland area will embrace the theme of a ‘Swedish forest,’ aligning with IKEA’s Swedish roots and offering a fresh, adventurous play environment.

Looking Ahead

The makeover at IKEA Wilrijk is expected to be completed by the end of April 2026. Although the ball pit may be gone, IKEA aims to continue providing a welcoming and engaging space for families, now with a renewed focus on variety and adventure.