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Billund at a Glance

Billund at a Glance

Denmark

Billund is a town in Denmark, located on the Jutland peninsula, in the western part of Denmark. It sits within the Syddanmark (Southern Denmark) region, serving as the administrative center of Billund Municipality. The town is strategically positioned for travel, acting as a gateway for international travelers arriving at Billund Airport, which services a wide range of European destinations.

Attractions

  • Legoland Billund: The original theme park.
  • Lego House: The "Home of the Brick."
  • Lalandia: Indoor water park and holiday resort.
  • Billund Airport (BLL): International gateway for Western Denmark.

Practical Advice

Billund operates with efficiency. Check opening times and book tickets online.

This streamlines your visit.

Historical Significance

The Birth of LEGO

Billund's history is deeply intertwined with The Lego Group. The story begins in 1932 when Ole Kirk Christiansen, a master carpenter, established his company in Billund. He started by producing wooden toys, along with stepladders, ironing boards, and other household items, to make ends meet during the Great Depression. The company name, "LEGO," coined in 1934, comes from the Danish words "leg godt," meaning "play well."

Global Phenomenon

The company evolved, and in 1947, Ole Kirk Christiansen produced his first plastic toy. A major turning point arrived in 1958 with the introduction of the interlocking "Lego brick." This simple yet ingenious design permitted endless building possibilities, quickly making Lego a global phenomenon. The Lego Group's continued growth brought jobs and people to Billund, transforming it from a small agricultural village into a modern town.

Milestones in Play

  • 1932:

    Ole Kirk Christiansen establishes his company in Billund, producing wooden toys.

  • 1934:

    The company is named "LEGO" from Danish "leg godt" ("play well").

  • 1947:

    First plastic toy production.

  • 1958:

    Introduction of the iconic interlocking Lego brick.

  • 1968:

    Legoland Park, the original theme park, opens its gates in Billund.

Capital of Children

Legoland Park, built entirely from Lego bricks, opened its gates in Billund in 1968. This event solidified Billund's reputation as a major tourist attraction. It positioned the town as the "Capital of Children." This designation arose due to the significant presence of Lego and its related family-focused businesses and attractions, all centered around the concept of play and learning.

Lego Group Headquarters

The Lego Group’s headquarters and design facilities remain in Billund, influencing the town’s development and character.

Lego House Legacy

The Lego House, an interactive experience center, opened in 2017, further cementing Billund's status as the ultimate destination for Lego fans and families seeking creative play.

Image: Billund Airport terminal building, modern and clean.

Billund in Brief

Billund offers a focused experience centered on play, creativity, and family entertainment.

Its compact nature means most attractions are within easy reach, often walkable or a very short bus ride away.

Population

Approximately 6,800 residents (2023).

Annual Visitors

Hundreds of thousands visit each year.

Town Environment

Clean, organized, and safe.

Local Economy

The town's economy and tourism are heavily dominated by The Lego Group and its associated attractions.

  • Local jobs are significantly tied to Lego.
  • Infrastructure developed around tourism.
  • A welcoming atmosphere for families.

Note

Billund maintains a high-quality experience built around imagination.