Belgium Hosts Europe’s Most Exciting Sportainment
If you thought “sportainment” was just a buzzword, let Belgium show you how it’s done. Belgium is currently home to one of Europe’s most ambitious sportainment parks: Sparkx in Hasselt and Gent. The vision? Mix sport, tech, and entertainment in such a way that even people who hate gym class want in.
Fifty Sports, Endless Possibilities
Sparkx officially opened in Hasselt in spring 2023 and covers about 3,500 square meters indoors. With over 50 different sports disciplines on offer, we’re talking everything from football, tennis, and basketball to lesser-seen ones like curling, clay pigeon shooting, or even sports fishing.
The park doesn’t stop at traditional games. AR and VR simulators let visitors wingsuit-fly, ski down Alpine slopes, or race Formula 1 cars virtually. And while the tech is impressive, the park is designed for all ages and fitness levels: schools and companies book mornings for programs, while evenings and weekends attract families and groups of friends.
Ghent: Bigger Stage, More Sports
Sparkx’s second location in Ghent is even more ambitious. Opened in 2024, it spans 4,800 m² indoors, with an additional 600 m² outdoor section for “ground sports” like pickleball and floorball. Ghent also introduces about 16 new activities compared to Hasselt, including ice hockey, motorsport simulators, and equestrian sports simulations.
Inclusivity is central: Sparkx highlights experiences accessible for wheelchair users, lowering barriers so that everyone can join the fun.
Why It’s More Than Just Fun
Sportainment parks like Sparkx reflect something deeper: a need for spaces that combine movement, community, and digital age experiences. They blur the lines between sports, gaming, and entertainment. For locals, these parks make sports more approachable, less intimidating. For tourists or casual visitors, they offer a chance to try new things without needing full gear or skill.
The plan is big: Sparkx wants to expand across Belgium and into neighbouring countries (France, Germany, the Netherlands) if demand holds! Considering how tough it is to get people to leave the couch or the phone, this festival is definitely something worth celebrating.
