The Trophy 2025 - 22/23 February 2025 - Genk Belgium

[Dutch bonsai chef]

Will be my first time there, so excited! Going with a friend from by bonsai class at deshima.

 

[R0b]

Anybody know what the parking situation was like in recent years? I see there are some quite large praking areas nearby, but still with enough visitors they could fill up quickly.

I recommend arriving early for parking or be prepared to walk.

 

[leatherback]

Anybody know what the parking situation was like in recent years? I see there are some quite large praking areas nearby, but still with enough visitors they could fill up quickly.

parking will be full probably within an hour of opening on Saturday, and you will need to find roadside (paid) parking and hike in.
Sunday should be OK

 

[ShimpakuBonsai]

Wish this wasn't a 2 hour drive.. Would love to go..

For me it is a 2.5 hour drive and I'm more than willing to drive this "far" for a once a year opportunity.

 

[RoadManDenDron]

10 hour drive here, not including traffic and pee breaks!

 

[leatherback]

pee breaks

what happened to bringing an empty bottle? slacker

 

[SgtPilko]

10 hour drive here, not including traffic and pee breaks!

Nice! UK representing

 

[JadedEvan]

First timer - curious if any other veterans on the the thread have tips to share about making the most of the show? I see (1) bring cash cause ATMs might not be reliable and (2) buy tickets at the door instead of online (already made that mistake). Driving down from The Netherlands to see on Saturday, excited for it!

 

[leatherback]

First timer - curious if any other veterans on the the thread have tips to share about making the most of the show? I see (1) bring cash cause ATMs might not be reliable and (2) buy tickets at the door instead of online (already made that mistake). Driving down from The Netherlands to see on Saturday, excited for it!

Just enjoy it.
Do not fret about missing things or people.
It will be FULL with loads of interesting purchasing options, severall halls with vendors, a hall with demonstrations and an area with an exhibition
Do not miss the exhibition!

 

[ShimpakuBonsai]

My tip would be to first look at the sales booths and visit the show afterwards.
At most booths you can store the things you bought so you don't have to carry it around.
But be sure you have some kind of proof of purchase if you want to pick it up later at the booth.

 

[PieterVE]

2h drive with 2 other club members, sooooo looking forward to it !! I'll be there on Saturday

 

[leatherback]

At most booths you can store the things you bought so you don't have to carry it around.

and you get a bracelet at the door so you can go in and out.

 

[JoB]

Due to some recent health issues I am not going to make it this year so disappointed . Please make sure to post lots of pictures and I hope that you all pick up some nice trees

 

[defra]

Due to some recent health issues I am not going to make it this year so disappointed . Please make sure to post lots of pictures and I hope that you all pick up some nice trees

Hope nothing bad and you recover soon!
Ill try to take some photos ... i want at least 1 or 2 new trees and some pots !

 

[R0b]

Is anyone able to confirm that the opening ceremony is accessible with a full weekend ticket or is it invitation only?

 

[leatherback]

Is anyone able to confirm that the opening ceremony is accessible with a full weekend ticket or is it invitation only?

I received communication that it is invite only (as in, invite only, and you are invited). So I *think it really is for people that have been told so.

 

[R0b]

I received communication that it is invite only (as in, invite only, and you are invited). So I *think it really is for people that have been told so.
View attachment 584091

Thanks was confused as last year someone told me this year it would be a three day event

 

[Wires_Guy_wires]

I'm on my way there, I'm not good at approaching people so if you see this face; come have a chat with me!

 

[SgtPilko]

I'm sitting early in the demo room 4 rows back like a proper nerd - it was either that or a giant line for frites

 

[defra]

I'm on my way there, I'm not good at approaching people so if you see this face; come have a chat with me! View attachment 584216

Im good at that this is my bald face !