Kortrijk Xpo
Kortrijk Xpo is one of the biggest multi-purpose indoor arenas and convention centres in the BENELUX, covering some 55,000 square metres (590,000 sq ft) (2009).[1] The complex is situated in the city of Kortrijk, Belgium and is home to some internationally renowned fairs, like the Kortrijk design fair Interieur and Busworld.
History
The City of Kortrijk initiated the construction of the first exposition halls in 1966 in Kortrijk-South (Kortrijk-Zuid), close to the highway exit of the plannen E3, the current E17. The 'Kortrijk Halls' were officially inaugurated in April 1967. As a result of the more international approach of the exhibition centre, on 2 December 1999, the name was transformed into Kortrijk Xpo.
Whereas the complex covered some 6,000 square metres (65,000 sq ft) of exposition space and 2,500 square metres (27,000 sq ft) of meeting space at the beginning, the complex was later enlarged to 32,500 square metres (350,000 sq ft), to 37,200 square metres (400,000 sq ft) in 2005, and As of 2009 covers 55,000 square metres (590,000 sq ft). This makes the complex one of the biggest fair centres in the BENELUX and even Europe. A new multipurpose hall, 'XXL', the so-called 'Black Box', was added in 2009.
Fairs
Among others the following trade fairs are held in Kortrijk:
- International Design Fair Interieur
- Busworld
- Euro Dogg Show
- Classics
- Kortrijk Winter Carnival
- Millionaires Fair
- Sea Side Show
- Hairstyle Benelux
- Architect@Work
Accessibility
The Kortrijk Xpo complex can be reached by the Highway E17, exit 2, and the ringroad R8.
The city bus network (operated by De Lijn) ensures a direct connection with the Kortrijk main railway station. Lines 1, 12 and 13 are directly linked with Kortrijk Xpo.
Notes
- Nieuwblad: article