The Expo’1958 was an important event for Belgium. Apart from the Expo itself , it gave the country an amazing structure – the Atomium. This underlying messages are those of progress, modernity, universalism and happiness.

To commemorate the 50th year of expo ‘58, a number of events and exhibitions are  being organized at the Atomium between April 17th and October 19th 2008. To house some of these events, a temporary structure called the “Pavilion of happiness” is being set up. The idea is to represent the spirit of 1958 but with materials having relevance to 2008. It should also do justice to the existing atom shaped structure.  Thus choice of building material is quite novel and would immediately pique one’s interest. The focus was on environmentally friendly and reusable material without any wastage. It is made of 43,000 beer crates (obviously Belgian). There are metal frameworks supporting the roof. The crates would function as building blocks.

Shown above is the exterior of the Pavilion of Happiness and below is the beautiful interior.

The exhibitions and film screenings would show the history of previous World fairs and stress what the Atomium symbolizes.  
The noted attractions would be the exhibition dedicated to Lucien De Roeck along with the Star (called “the star of Lucien De Roeck), the symbol of Expo’58. The entire area from Blvd. du Centenaire, the Atomium Square and the Place Louis Steens would have panels representing the star of De Roeck and pictures from the Expo’58. The Walk along the Pavilions, fireworks, concerts, dances etc. are on the anvil. The ball is slated for the August 15th weekend. The films will focus on documentaries/short films and some ‘50s American and French films among others.
The Pavilion of temporary happiness will be open from April 18th to October 19th daily. It would be open from 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. with the ticket counter closing at 6 P.M. On Thursdays it will be open from 10 A.M. to 10 P.M. with the counter closing at 9 P.M.

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The Atomium

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